'Let’s get the title back' - Jonathan Rea, KRT unveil 2022 WorldSBK colours
KRT WorldSBK riders Jonathan Rea and Alex Lowes unveiled their 2022 ZX-10RR in a virtual presentation in Barcelona.
Rea, who was beaten to last season’s title by Toprak Razgatlioglu - first time that’s happened since he joined Kawasaki back in 2015 - will be looking to reclaim his crown as he goes in search of a seventh world title, as will the team who had to play third best behind Yamaha and Ducati in the manufacturers’ championships.
While the team’s colours have remained largely the same as 2021, a big change can be seen on Rea's bike as the Northern Irishman has returned to the #65.
KRT are the first Kawasaki team to unveil their 2022 colours, while also becoming the fifth after Team HRC, Aruba.it Ducati, Barni Spark Racing and GoEleven Ducati to do so.
The team’s official presentation comes two days before their penultimate pre-season WorldSBK test, also at Barcelona.
Speaking at the presentation, Rea said: "For me the team launch is always a big step in the process of starting a new season. After six Winter tests we are now ready to put the black and white bikes away.
"Just like Spring arriving we reveal our new colours telling the world that KRT is fully prepared for 2022. Let’s get the title back."
Although pre-season testing is yet to provide a clear indication of where each team/rider stands, one thing we do know is that Rea has been extremely quick when on-track.
Not quite as fast has been Lowes who enters year-three with the team. 2022 promises to be a big season for the Brit after injuries derailed his 2021 season.
After taking part in a Jerez test (January) and most recently a two-day outing at Portimao (February), Lowes is set to begin next month’s season-opener at Aragon fully fit for the first time since last September.
"It is my third year inside KRT and I truly feel part of the family so it’s a proud moment to help launch the new team colours confirming our partners and sponsors for 2022," added Lowes.
"I am fully fit for the start of the season and super motivated. Bring it on."
