Nicky Wilson

Getting into bike racing has been tough and I am still on a big learning curve. I grew up in Surrey and now live in West Sussex near Crawley. I'm not "independently wealthy" as they say, so to date all of my racing has been self-funded with the help of many good mates, my family and small companies helping me out here and there. Demon Designs UK and many friends who've helped out for nothing, given me discounts or freebies like my paddock scooter which was junk until it was given a makeover by my Dad to make it useable.

I've always loved bikes but my parents pushed me towards karting and cars (bikes too dangerous) so it wasn't until my 20's that I got into bikes, unlike many of my rivals who have been riding since age 7. No biking dynasty in my family!

I guess if you asked me to describe myself, I would say I was a striver. I’m not gifted with great skill or speed, I just work dam hard at everything I do and never give up.

Whatever I've raced or ridden I've always ‘spannered’ it myself and I think it is really important to know how any machine works and be prepared to tackle problems including those sessions in the awning until 2am after a big problem or crash!

Away from racing I studied engineering and now work as an Engineering Project Manager. Therefore, it is a challenge to juggle my time between racing, work and family.

I got my road bike licence in 2008 and had a Honda Hornet briefly before deciding I wanted to get out on track after a go at the Ron Haslam Race School on a 600RR!

My first race bike was a Suzuki GSX-R 600 in 2009, which I raced in the Suzuki GSX-R 600 Cup run by the ACU. In 2010 (on the same bike) I race in the BEMSEE clubman championship finishing 6th overall. 2011 was a big step up – moving onto a Triumph Daytona 675 in the one-make BSB support series.

2012 was the start of what I now call the ‘Ducati years’ – with my first season on a Ducati in the 848 Challenge. 2013 was again on the 848 but it was a torrid year of crashes and mechanical failures until I moved teams (and onto a more competitive bike) for the final two rounds.

2014 was a great year onboard my new 899 but it was a steep learning curve. It was great having the support and involvement from the Forum members and I'm glad to be able to continue this relationship into 2015.

You can follow me on twitter: @wilson48forever or visit my website: Wilson 48 for further information.

Keep it pinned!

Nicky #48