Motorhead Simon Low wants to prove the doubters wrong, and he is has been given the motorbike to do just that.

The Twickenham racer will feature in the Thundersport Superstock 1,000 Championship, starting this weekend at Brands Hatch.

He will drive a 1,000cc Kawasaki ZX10 bike for Crank Racing, and having never ridden a 1,000cc bike in anger before, the team have set what he considers realistic targets.

Moreover, Low reckons it is a chance to prove wrong those who said, at 28 years old, he is too old for the sport.

He said: “I started racing at 20, and even then people were telling me I was too old, don’t bother and don’t waste your time.

“People are still telling me I am too old for this game and I want to prove them wrong.

“I know time is against me and if I am to have a shot at a World Championship I need to be there in three years or so.

“But even if I don’t make it, I would not regret anything I have done. If I had listened to everyone, I would have this opportunity now.”

Low earned the ride after winning the North Gloucester Mini-Twins Championship last season and impressing Crank Racing team principal Mark Grimes.

Grimes stumped up £40,000 to get his man kitted out, meaning Low only has to pay for gloves and a helmet, which is covered by sponsorship, as well as travel and accommodation.

He said: “I was blown away when I was told about the financial side of things, it’s really a dream come true.

“And the bike is fantastic. I’ve only had a couple of practice sessions, but compared with my bike last season it feels like it wants to go to the moon when you open the throttle fully.”

He added: “This season is a learning curve for me, and I don’t know what will happen beyond it.

“I’ve been set realistic targets – a top 15 finish this weekend would be a good start, but Mark wants to see improvement throughout the season and at least one podium. If I deliver, who knows what will happen.”