KR confirm Motorpoint deal

Team owner Kenny Roberts - a three time Moto GP champion in the 1970s and 80s - had been pessimistic of continuing beyond the first two races after a winter of having to fund the team himself.

But the new deal should enable the single-bike to get in some much needed testing and move up towards the front of the grid.

Roberts said: "Our team has real commitment and confidence to build a very successful 2007 season and we are very excited that Motorpoint are a part of it."

Team KR, who have built their own Honda-engined bikes since last season, suffered from a lack of funds over the winter, not testing their new 800cc machine until January.

The lack of development showed in the season-opening Qatar Grand Prix when rider Kenny Roberts Jr - the 2000 world champion - could only manage 14th in the race.