DUNLOP AND HARRISON IMPRESS

Michael Dunlop and Dean Harrison posted a series of impressive North West 200 results this year.

The Ballymoney man has switched to Honda power for the big bike classes, running a Hawk Racing Honda in the Superbike division alongside a stocker spec Fireblade and R6 Yamaha in his own MD Racing colours.

Dunlop might not have won any races during the week but he was running at the front of the pack in every one he contested.

Posting the fastest Superbike lap during the opening practice session, he finished in the top five in every race he started except the first Superbike event, when he was forced to retire because of issues with his rear Dunlop tyre. His best performances came in the two Superstock races where he was second and third on the MD Racing Honda.

Harrison claimed third place finishes on the DAO Racing Kawasakis in both of Saturday’s Superbike events plus a third and fourth in the two Superstock races. He also finished fourth and fifth on the BPE/Russell Yamaha R6 in both 600cc races at the seaside event.

“I felt most comfortable on the Superbike.” Harrison said.

“I am riding it the most and it was the same bike I ride at BSB. I felt like I was always there in both races. It was a shame the races were cut short because there was nothing in it between us and I had more to give.”