By Phil Wain
March 9 2006

Steve Plater has became the fourth rider to join the Uel Duncan Racing team, with the announcement that he will ride a 600cc Honda at this year’s North West 200 road racing event. Plater will join Cameron Donald, Les Shand and Stephen Thompson, who have already signed for the Ulster based squad, to form a four-man team at the Causeway Coast meeting, which will be held from 9th-13th of May.

33-year-old Plater had already agreed terms with HM Plant Honda to ride alongside John McGuinness in the two Superbike races, and after beginning negotiations in the last few weeks, a deal was soon struck between the two parties. The move will see Plater race in both Supersport events and, having already stepped onto the podium at the 8.9-mile circuit on four occasions, he is now well placed to add substantially to that tally in 2006. The deal also caps a good few days for the likeable Lincolnshire rider, having last weekend signed to ride for the Dienza Performance team in the British Superbike Championship.

Commenting on the deal, a delighted Plater said:
“Everyone knows how much I want to win a North West 200 race and, having secured competitive machinery for the Supersport races, I’ve now got four opportunities to do just that. From the first time I spoke to Uel it was quite clear that he runs an extremely professional team, and he’s signalled his intentions over the winter months by purchasing some top flight machinery and signing some top riders. I’m really grateful to him and his team for giving me the opportunity, and I’ll be aiming to give them their first ever North West win. Last week, I had hardly any rides, but now I’m now fully sorted for the season ahead so bring it on!”

Team Principal Uel Duncan added:
“I’m absolutely delighted to have secured Steve’s signature for the North West 200, and I’m sure we can give him the support and machinery he needs to take a much yearned for victory. To sign someone of Steve’s stature is a terrific achievement for our team, and shows how far we have come in the road racing circle in just the space of a few years - so thanks to everyone involved for making it happen. Steve never gives less than 100%, and I’m really excited by the prospect of him lining up on one of our bikes. With Les, Cameron and Stephen also running in our colours, it promises to be a fantastic meeting, and one I’m already relishing and looking forward to.”