Team York Suzuki have added a late entry into the Superbike Classic TT race by drafting in the highly experienced Gary Johnson.
Johnson will ride an XR-69 1100cc Suzuki for Kevin Pearson’s York-based team having replaced namesake David Johnson in the team. The Australian has been forced to withdraw after sustaining numerous injuries at the recent Ulster Grand Prix.
The team have brought in Gary, who has been an ever-present at the Classic TT event. The Lincolnshire rider has competed for Roger Winfield for the past two years, where he has ridden one of the 1200cc Harris Yamaha’s.
He was forced to retire from fifth place in 2014 but bounced back twelve months ago to finish eighth having lapped at 121.332mph on his opening lap.
Delighted at the late deal, Johnson said: “I am delighted to be joining Team York Suzuki for the Classic TT. Obviously it is a shame that Dave can’t ride the bike due his injuries and I wish him well in his recovery, but hopefully I can build on his performances for the team last year.
“The team have made a massive effort with the bike preparation and we should be able to challenge for a place on the podium.”
Team York Suzuki are also known by the name of Big Dog Classic Racing, which was the name chosen by Pearson when he first started his own team – with the support from York Suzuki Centre.
The 1980’s racer has been a huge supporter of both the Classic TT and the Post Classic races that took place at the Manx Grand Prix between 2010 and 2012.
2014 saw Russ Mountford ride for the team, going onto claim an impressive third place in the Formula One Classic TT race – including a lap of almost 121mph.
Keep checking The Checkered Flag for all the latest news surrounding the 2016 Classic TT.
