Kirkham joins Jentin Yamaha.

Jentin Racing has confirmed its place on the 2009 British Superbike grid after completing the signing of Jon Kirkham.

The team, which will again race in Lloyds British colours, enjoyed a successful 2008 season with Simon Andrews, finishing nearly every race inside the top ten to be classified as the leading Yamaha representative.

Confirming they will run another R1 this year, it increases the Japanese manufacturer's presence on the grid to six.

Kirkham comes to the team after making headlines at last year's British Superbike finale when he stepped into Karl Harris' place at Rob Mac Racing at the last minute to qualify inside the top ten and score two strong race finishes.

Coupled to a title winning turn in the Henderson Yamaha R1 Cup and the runners-up spot in the Superstock series, Kirkham is pleased to be graduating to Superbikes full-time in 2009 and is duly targeting the top five.

"I am feeling really confident ahead of the new season," he told the official BSB website. "I had a really good set of results in 2008, with the championship win in the Yamaha R1 Cup and then also strong results in the Superstock 1000 class. That was on equal machinery in the Cup and pretty equal in the Superstock Championship and I am under no illusions that BSB is going to be a challenge.

"I had a taster of BSB at the final round and I can't wait for the first race of 2009. I am pleased to be staying on a Yamaha with the Lloyds British Jentin team. They are a brilliant squad and because they only have one rider, the team are completely focused on working with me.

"I think we have a really good chance of getting the results next season, my first aim is to be running in the top five and then like everybody else, will be looking for the podium."

Team manager Bernie Toleman was also delighted to be welcoming Kirkham to the team having watched him throughout the 2008 season.

"On behalf of everyone in the team I am delighted to welcome Jon on board. I have been watching Jon very closely throughout the 2008 season and have certainly been impressed.

"Without doubt he has proved that he is more than capable on a Superbike scoring two strong results at Brands Hatch after stepping in, quite literally at the very last minute, to take over the factory backed Yamaha team ride.

"I genuinely believe that the timing is now right for JK to really make his mark on the BSB championship and we have every intention to provide him with both the equipment and team support to do just that."