Two-time World Superbike Champion Troy Corser will ride the factory BMW S 1000 RR again in 2011, his third season with BMW Motorrad Motorsport.

In addition to his race winning speed, Corser is recognized as a superior test and development rider, an essential asset for BMW as they continue to develop the award-winning street sport bike into a winning Superbike at the highest level.

The stock bike is a great machine, as demonstrated by the dominating performance of the BMW Italia S 1000 RR in the World Superstock Championship, a category closer to stock than Superbike. Rider Ayrton Badovini has won all 11 Superstock races held so far this season. With two races to go, that combination is virtually assured of the 2010 rider and manufacturer titles.

The decision to keep Corser must have been an easy one, to continue development of the bike. On the other hand, there is no word yet on a second rider to presumably replace Spaniard Ruben Xaus, a decision largely based on marketing and regional markets, as well as pace and race winning potential. Should they go for a race winner, invest in a promising young rider, or an older rider such as the most popular rider in WSBK, Japanese hero Noriyuke Haga.

The WSBK circus goes to Imola this weekend, so stay tuned.