McGuinness confident ahead of North West 200

John McGuinness says there is no reason he can’t bring some trophies home this season as the Honda Racing team finalise preparations for next week’s North West 200.

The Morecambe Missile lapped Castle Combe faster than he’s ever been before during the traditional pre-North West test at the Wiltshire circuit last week. The Honda racer spent two days testing a number of chassis and engine tweaks as well as evaluating a potential switch to Ohlins suspension.

Having headed into last year’s season with a question mark hanging over his form, it couldn’t be more different for the 44-year-old this time round after his sensational Senior TT victory last June.

“We had a really solid test last week,” said McGuinness. “We had a few things to work through, which we managed and it’s all been really positive.

“It’s still the same CBR I love and adore, but we can’t stand still as the competition is really strong so we have to make a few small changes here and there so we’re ready. I’m feeling great at the moment and I went faster than I’ve ever been before, so I’m feeling really confident.” 

For more see this week’s (4th May) MCN