Beech in brakes blow at Brands

Ashley Beech: serious brake issues

MOTOR RACING: MOORSIDE’S Ashley Beech had suffered mixed fortunes on his previous visits to Brands Hatch, including two serious crashes.

But this time his race was over before it even started. The JD Racing ace had to retire on the warm-up lap when a broken gear shifter left his bike stuck in first gear.

It was yet another cruel stroke of luck for Beech, who was hoping make a big impact in round seven of he National Superstock 1000 Championship at the Kent circuit. It followed a disappointing result at Knockhill, when the brakes failed while he was in fourth place.

After the first of two qualifying sessions at Brands Hatch it was clear his Kawasaki ZX-10R race bike was still suffering a braking problem, as he was down in 19th place.

When technicians stripped the system, a hairline fracture was found in one of the brake callipers, which as replaced. Despite improved lap times, Beech only managed to move up to 17th place on the grid.

The brake system was again stripped overnight and another hairline fracture found on the other calliper. All the key components were replaced and Beech was subsequently second-quickest in the morning warm-up. He beat his personal best times in every sector and in several areas was the fastest rider on the track – but he never made it to the start>