Flint backing is music to Mercer’s ears

Mercer will ride in the Superbike, Superstock and Supersport races on the Team Traction Control and TAS Racing-supported GSX-R machines.

Mercer said: “Although it’s a fledgling outfit they have an experienced crew with the likes of Grant Bunting who worked with Shaun Muir’s team last year and we’ve already got some races under our belts.

“I think that this is my chance to kick on and get into the top ten in the Superbike races at the TT.

“I’m also really looking to get out on a 600 for the first time on the Mountain Course and I think that doing the extra races will help with my overall preparation.”

Team boss Flint is looking forward to the Isle of Man TT next June in particular, where Mercer secured his best ever result this season with eighth place in the Superstock event.

“After racing myself for several years I know what’s needed to compete on two wheels but I think taking on the Mountain Course is something I couldn’t dream of doing myself.

“I believe it’s one of the biggest motorcycle races the world has to offer and I’ll put the best team out there possible. Doing the TT is not just something I want to cross off my bucket list,” he added.

“We are going there to do a job with a very capable rider using some top notch bikes and I can’t wait.”

Mercer will also compete in selected rounds of the National Superstock 1000 Championship plus the Macau Grand Prix.

Meanwhile, Taylor Mackenzie will continue to compete in the British Supersport Championship with Tyco Suzuki in 2014.

Mackenzie finished a respectable tenth in the final championship standings this year in only his second season in the series, claiming a best result of fifth place at Donington Park and another solid sixth place at Snetterton on the GSX-R600.