From a press release issued by Damian Cudlin’s publicist: Australian Damian Cudlin will be doing double duties this year, having agreed to a deal with the SKM Bike Promotion Yamaha Team to race in the complete 2008 IDM (German) Supersport Championship. Riding Yamaha’s all new YZF R6 in the four man squad alongside Petter Solli, Pascal Eckhardt and Rico Penzkofer, Cudlin believes the team possess all the tools required for a successful championship campaign. “I’m really excited to be riding in the German Supersport series this year and equally happy to be riding for the SKM Bike Promotion Yamaha Team.” “I’ve been in contact with them for a while now and plans for this project were being made since the middle of last year, so I’m really glad it’s all come together. It’s a tight knit team with a professional crew all experienced in winning races.” Cudlin explained. The SKM Bike Promotion Yamaha Team is the product of a joint venture between the SKM and Bike Promotion companies. SKM were the tuning force behind Jorg Teucherts mighty MV Augusta last season and are also involved with Yamaha Motor Deutschland’s Superbike program this season. SKM’s Frank Krekeler was also the man behind Kevin Curtain’s 2004 WSSP season with Yamaha Deutschland. Bike Promotion are also no strangers to the racing scene, having had numerous success in the IDM series including 2nd in the 2006 Supersport Championship with Rigo Richter. Cudlin first tested for the squad back in November and instantly impressed with scorching times at the Cartagena Circuit in Spain. Following another successful test in Valencia recently, Cudlin finalised a deal to compete in the full 2008 IDM series. “This team are great to work with and understand what I need and what it takes to win races. Racing in both the World Endurance Championship and the German Supersport Championship means I’ll be on a bike a lot this year which can only be good for my riding.” Cudlin insisted. “I’m really motivated this year and fitter than I’ve ever been, so I’m looking forward to the season ahead. I hope I can make my sponsors and supporters proud with strong results in both championships, one thing for sure is I’ll be giving it 100%” Cudlin’s first race for the SKM Bike Promotion Yamaha Team will be at Lausitzring on 26-27th April, just one week after competing in the Le Mans 24hour for his Phase One Yamaha Team.