http://www.crash.net/news_view~cid~5~id~153978.htm

Hmm... A sideways step? Good to see him staying loyal to Honda but with the free Toseland ride in WSB and the non-entity Rolfo (at least on big bikes), it is a wee bit of a let down for me, especially as Xerox offered him a 1199 ride alongside Bayliss. Guess it'll be a decent learning curve though before moving on to bigger things.

Wonder where that leaves Sofuoglu and if he'll defend his title, or be allowed to move up to partner Kiyo or Rolfo. Seeing him and Rea go head to head would make some awesome viewing. Anyone know if Rolfo is on a 1 or 2 year contract?

In some ways yes, but Ten Kate are the best team in WSB/WSS right now so there's a great route to progress down if he can do well next year.

As for Rolfo, I don't have a clue I'm afraid.

I believe TK are running an a-team and b-team next year, factory help permitting.

If so, the maths won't add up. They already more or less told Superglu that he can ride SBK next year. Rumour has it Kiyo has been signed weeks ago. They are still chasing riders. Checa is close and Andrew Pitt if reumours are to be belived. Plus I don't think Rolfo will be cast aside so easily as he brought Hannespree to the team...

But for Johnny I think it's an excellent move. He is nowhere near the stage to be what the Ducati want. Look at Lanzi. He is still learning and is making far too many errors. His time will come, but he can learn the tracks in WSS with a lot less pressure and move up with a bit more experience. A jump too far at this stage could ruinin him finishing 12th every week in WSBK. Time is on his side!!!