IDM SPB: Guest rider Beekmans takes pole position on Suzuki

The IDM Sportbike class made a surprise return at Assen: pole position went to guest rider Kas Beekmans (VLR-NIWA Racing). The Dutchman, competing on his home track, clocked a 1:45.084 in Q2—a time no one else could beat. Beekmans, who usually competes in the British Superbike (BSB) series, is the only Suzuki rider in the field and was pleased with his performance on Saturday morning: “The level of competition is high, and it’s always more difficult to race against opponents you don’t know. But of course we’re happy with the result and are looking forward to an exciting race.”

Excitement is guaranteed, as Beekmans’ BSB colleague Harrison Dessoy (PHR Performance Triumph) will also be shaking up the field as a guest starter. With a P2 finish, the Brit secured a spot on the front row, but a minor rule violation cost him valuable positions: Because his team had not affixed the tire stickers in accordance with the rules during Q1, Dessoy will be set back three positions for the first race—starting from fifth place.

Iglesias moves up, Hänse is the top German

Inigo Iglesias (Wematik Racing by RT Motorsports) could benefit from this situation. The Spaniard finished third, half a second behind the pole-setter, and will therefore start from the second row. Right next to him is Svoboda himself (WRP Racing), who kept pace with the leading group to finish fourth.

Top German rider: Justin Hänse (Motorradteile GYTR by Penz13). With a time of 1:46.412, he’ll start from fifth on the grid—and thanks to Dessoy’s penalty, he’ll actually move up to the second row for the first race.

The first race of the IDM Sportbike class starts on Saturday afternoon at 3:30 p.m. and will be streamed live and free of charge at www.idm.de/live .

IDM Sportbike – Qualifying 1 & 2: