Irwin hoping to get ‘close to where’ Buchan is with BMW

Andrew Irwin’s challenging start to the 2021 Bennetts British Superbike season continued at Knockhill as a first top ten still alludes the Northern Irishman.

Knockhill was certainly a contrasting one for SYNETIQ BMW, as Irwin could only manage two 15th and one 14th place finishes - opposed to Buchan’s three podiums including two wins. 

Irwin’s tally of just five points through two rounds is also a huge difference to where the 26 year-old was at this stage last year with Honda - two wins in the first six races.

While it’s clear that Irwin’s results were not what was expected, especially given Buchan’s success, he believes the performance was improved upon from Oulton Park. 

"It definitely doesn’t look like it was my best weekend, but it was a step forward from Oulton Park for sure," added Irwin.  

"It’s a matter of just trying to keep on building on that and look forward to Brands now. Well done to Danny. 

"He did an awesome job this weekend on the SYNETIQ BMW M 1000 RR, showing it’s true potential and what it really can do, so hopefully it will not be too long before I can be close to where he is."

Team Principal, Philip Neill, also shared his thoughts on Irwin’s early struggles.  

Neill said: "Andrew has not enjoyed the early season so much, but we believe we have found a direction for him even though it didn’t show in our results today. 

"He is a quality rider and I have no doubt he will challenge for podiums when we find the sweet spot for him and his M 1000 RR."

After stepping in at Ducati during the 2018 season for an injured Shane Burne, and then moving to Honda where he spent the last two years, Irwin’s transition to both bikes produced immediate results - something that as of yet hasn’t happened with the new M 1000 RR machine.