Road Racing

Team York Suzuki sign Gary Johnson for Classic TT

1 Mins read
Johnson

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.

Avatar photo
590 posts

About author
Josh is a Sports Journalism graduate and has been a member of the TCF team since 2015. Between 2015 and 2018, Josh focused primarily on British Superbikes and Road Racing events such as the Isle of Man TT. At the beginning of the 2019 season he became the MotoGP Reporter.
Articles
Related posts
British SuperbikeDakarRoad Racing

Isle of Man TT winner James Hillier set for Dakar Rally debut in 2023 Malle Moto

2 Mins read
After a delay, James Hillier will make his first Dakar Rally start in 2023. Riding in the Malle Moto class, he will be the first Isle of Man TT winner to challenge Dakar.
Road Racing

Isle of Man TT 2020 cancelled amid Coronavirus fears

1 Mins read
The 2020 Isle of Man TT is cancelled due to coronavirus fears
British SuperbikeRoad Racing

Honda Racing confirm their 2020 British Superbike plans

1 Mins read
Honda Racing have announced their British Superbike and Superstock plans, along with their road racing plans for the 2020 season.