Isle of Man Hosts First TT Road Racing Since 2019, as Peter Hickman Dominates Superbike Contest
The Isle of Man welcomed the return of TT road racing for the first time since 2019, with the opening six-lap Superbike contest kicking off the week’s proceedings. In a dominant display, British rider Peter Hickman claimed his sixth TT victory, crossing the line 39.1 seconds ahead of Dean Harrison of DAO Racing.
Ahead of the race, a new warm-up lap was introduced as part of this year’s safety improvements, allowing Hickman to get his “eye in” on his Superstock bike before the Superbike contest. The strategy paid dividends, as the Gas Monkey Garage by FHO Racing rider took the lead on the opening lap and never looked back.
“The bike was absolutely the same as it was throughout practice, which was nice,” Hickman commented. “It’s just a nice bike to ride, really easier, which makes my life easier.”
Starting 10th on the road, Hickman swiftly worked his way through the field, benefiting from a comfortable lead that gave him the freedom to pass other riders safely.
“If I was only one or two seconds ahead of second place, then it would have been a different story,” he explained. “But as it was, I had like 13 or 14 seconds at the time, so I could take a sector to pass them.”
The victory comes after Hickman experienced fuel issues during Thursday’s practice session, which forced him to make adjustments to the electronics and engine braking strategy. However, the team’s quick work ensured there were no concerns about a repeat in the race.
“We found loads – we only needed 0.6 of a litre, 0.3 per lap, it’s not a lot,” Hickman revealed. “The boys found about 0.8s by just trimming the electronics, so I didn’t have to do anything.”
The return of TT road racing to the Isle of Man was a welcomed sight for Cycling enthusiasts, and Hickman’s dominant performance on the all-new BMW M1000RR set the tone for what promises to be an exciting week of artiem audax road racing action.
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