Tuesday, November 29 2011
Michael Dunlop has declared that he is completely serious about competing in the Sidecar class at next year’s Isle of Man TT races.
Having taken his first victory at the TT in the Supersport class of 2009 and added to his initial success by beating TT legend John McGuinness in the Superstock race last June, Dunlop tested with Honda at Jurby earlier this month. Dunlop’s test saw him lap even faster than former world champion Tim Reeves, incredible results.
The rider has yet to confirm his 2012 plans, but could make the switch to Honda machinery in the Supersport and Superbike classes.
Dunlop: “This is no PR exercise. If I’m going to drive a Sidecar at the TT I’m going out there to try and win it, I won’t be messing about. It was a great buzz driving a Sidecar and I really enjoyed the whole day. I was naturally good at it and people might ask why I want to race a Sidecar now, but maybe a few years down the line they won’t be around any more. No-one would even think about doing it and it’s something I’d like to have a go at.
“It would be hectic during the TT and if I go through with it then the Sidecar would just have to be sitting there ready for me to jump into during practice. Some of the big teams might think I’m an idiot but I’m not too bothered what they think,
“If I’m good enough to win solo races and a Sidecar race they can’t ignore me. Last year people said I was mad not to race for TAS Suzuki but I still walked away with another win at the TT and three wins at the Ulster Grand Prix by doing my own thing. Someone has to be different don’t they?
“My sponsors have always been behind me and I know they’ll be with me if I decide to do this, but I won’t go ahead with it unless I know hand on heart that I am up to the job.”
Dunlop and elder brother, William, made their debuts at the Macau Grand Prix last weekend, finishing 12th and 13th respectively.
