The third round of four in this season’s New Zealand Superbike Championship hits Hampton Downs, near Meremere, this weekend.

With just a handful of points to separate the top two riders in the premier class – defending No.1 Dennis Charlett and rising young star Jaden Hassan – it’s sure to be a cracker, although superbike class entries are down on previous years.

But add to this the welcome return to action of Hamilton’s Nick Cole, along with perennial contenders such as James Smith, Sloan Frost and Linden Magee and the action should be fierce.

The battle resumes in the 600 Supersport class between the Hoogenboezem siblings, Alastair and James, while Cameron Hudson, Rhys Holmes and Toby Summers should also feature.

Racing is also scheduled for the Post Classic, Superlite, Pro Twins, 125GP bikes and sidecars.

Class leaders in these classes after round two are Orewa’s Avalon Biddle (Superlites); Whangamata’s Ben Rosendale (Pro Twins); Blenheim’s Tim McArthur (250cc production); Christchurch’s Sam Davison (125 GP) and Auckland pair Adam Unsworth and Stu Dawe (sidecars).

The fourth and final round of the series is set for Taupo, the following weekend, on March 14-15.

© Words and photos by Andy McGechan, www.BikesportNZ.com

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