The 2014 Showdown - A Guide
With the main part of the season over it's now time for the showdown to begin. This format is pretty unique but can be a little confusing. Here's a guide to what goes on in the MCE BSB title fight.
How's it work?
The first 9 rounds of the season are a point collecting mission for all the riders. The aim is to get into the top six positions; those top 6 are then entered into the showdown. All their points are then boosted to 500 plus podium credits. Podium credits are also collected in the main part of the season and equate to 5 for a win, 3 for a 2nd and 1 point for a 3rd. Those 6 title fighters then battle it out for the championship at the three final rounds, Assen, Silverstone and the triple header finale at Brands. Those not in the top six can't win the title but can collect the rider's championship trophy for finishing in 7th place in the standings.
This year's title fighters
SHANE 'SHAKEY' BYRNE - 562
Shakey is already a three times champ and leads the way in the standings. He's vastly experienced and on an incredible bike. Odds on favourite to win the fourth title with his podium credits haul.
JOSH BROOKES - 536
Josh has made the showdown for the last 5 years but has never taken the title. He's ridden for Honda, Suzuki and now Yamaha. In what could be his last year in MCE BSB can he finally lift the trophy?
RYUICHI KIYONARI - 535
After a poor showdown with Honda last year where he picked up an injury, Kiyo is back to winning ways on the Buildbase BMW. He's certainly in the running to take the fourth title if he can keep winning.
TOMMY BRIDEWELL - 508
Tommy's made the showdown before but this is possibly his best chance on the factory Yamaha. But he does trail on podium credits so has work to do.
CHRIS WALKER - 505
It's a dream come true for the 'old but gold' legend to make the showdown. He's on a great bike but once again has a lot of work to do to catch the top three.
DAN LINFOOT - 501
A showdown first timer, Dan has been very consistent this year which has got him his spot. He's probably not going to take the title but is happy at the chance.
These six will have to battle hard under the immense pressure the showdown brings; it always runs to the wire so potentially any of them could take the title! We'll find out the initial leaders after this weekend's action at the TT Circuit Assen. Catch all the qualifying and raceday action on Eurosport.
18.09.14 - Big Ed
