2011 Isle of Man TT
In just three days, the official festivities began for the 2011 Isle of Man TT (May 30-June 10).
And two Honda TT Legends riders that will contest at this year’s IOMTT – outright lap-record holder and 15-time IOMTT winner John McGuinness and teammate Keith Amor – already have two rounds of Endurance World Championship under their leathers.
What could be better preparation for the legendary than hundreds of superbike laps aboard the Honda TT Legends CBR1000RR Fireblade at the Bol d’Or 24 (France) and 8 Hours at Albacete (Spain)?
Honda TT Legends ays McGuinness’s 15-year knowledge of the circuit cannot be underestimated as he aims to defend his title as the fastest man around the Isle of Man TT lap. Relative newcomer Amor is hoping that his EWC experience, combined with the unrivalled knowledge of the Honda TT Legends team and the dynamic capability of the CBR1000RR Fireblade will help him bring home some solid results.
Following a week of practice sessions from Monday 30 May, McGuinness and Amor will compete for the Honda TT Legends in the Dainese Superbike race on Monday, June 6, and the Pokerstars Senior Race on Friday, June 10.
John McGuinness (Honda TT Legends CBR 1000RR) says: “Endurance has been really good for me – it’s completely different and it has definitely improved my fitness – but I am so excited to be back at the TT. There’s a buzz about it that you just don’t get anywhere else.
“I think we have all the right ingredients this year – the team, the bike, the tyres – it’s all there. There are some very competitive riders though and you just never know what will happen – what will be will be but of course I want to win!”
Keith Amor (Honda TT Legends CBR1000RR) says: “Racing in the endurance championship with the Honda TT Legends means that I have spent more time on a superbike than ever before this year. It has not only provided great experience getting to grips with a superbike but it’s also increased my fitness level.
“I have the benefit of a brilliant team with years of TT experience behind them and a bike that is a legend in its own right so everything is in place. I’m not stressing about getting my first win, but hopefully we can get on that podium.”
Neil Tuxworth (Honda TT Legends Team Manager) says: “We’re sticking to basic principles for the Isle of Man TT – a proven formula for preparing the bikes as we always have, with performance and reliability in mind. The specification of the bike is virtually the same as we ran in 2010. Under the new Honda TT legends livery, we are of course aiming to win both superbike races and have both our riders on the podium.”