Huntingdonshire motorcyclist Jon Railton hoping old bike will thrust him forward at Brands Hatch

Grafham biker Jon Railton is hoping his “back to the future” mindset will turn what looked like being a disappointing campaign into one which yields silverware.

He realises he has a lot to do for that to happen, but is feeling far happier than a few weeks ago, when his attempts to master the new-look Ducatti were doomed to failure. “I couldn’t get on with it for some reason,” said Railton, right.

“I don’t know what it was, but after things went badly at Brands Hatch and Donington, I switched back to the 848cc, 140hp twin-cylinder bike which brought me second place in the Ducatti Trioptions Cup last year.”

An improved performance was ­immediate, at Knockhill, in Scotland, a couple of weeks ago. He picked up two 848 Cup victories and wound up fifth overall.

“In theory, the new model bikes (899cc with a new-style chassis) should continue to dominate, but I reckon they can be beaten,” he said. “I aim to get the better of the new models and improve my overall position.”

That will take some inspired riding in the final five rounds – 10 races – starting at Brands this weekend.

The Ducatti Cup races are supporting the Superbike Championships, so there will be a crowd of about 50,000 cheering on Railton & Co.

“It’s a wonderful occasion at the best of times, but with such a big crowd and with the race taking place on the longest grand prix circuit, it’s a venue I will enjoy,” Railton said.

“I know it’s a tough call to win the remaining 848 series races, but I reckon I can do it, and if I can fill third place ­overall I can look on the season as a success.

“To start the campaign on a new bike, then revert to the old style and still be in with a shout, suggests I know what I am doing.

“I’ve just got to go out and prove it.”