Anstey targets Dundrod Lap Record

New Zealander Bruce Anstey has outlined his ambitions ahead of this weekend’s Ulster Grand Prix, with his eyes firmly set on reclaiming the outright lap record.

The 2017 road racing campaign has presented a number of challenges for Bruce to date. A lack of track time and mechanical have been prominent, however, both rider and team will be aiming to finish the International Road Racing season on a high.

Anstey said, “At the North West I just struggled to get going and it was the same at the Isle of Man. Then in the Senior we got up into the top five and the bike let go. The season has been pretty rubbish, but I don’t really feel any pressure here. I just want to ride well, give it 100%, and see how we get on.”

The Flying Kiwi famously lapped at an average speed of 133.977mph when riding for Phillip Neil’s Relentless Suzuki team back in 2010. Anstey’s record was shattered at last year’s event when Yorkshireman Ian Hutchinson lapped the Dundrod circuit at an impressive average speed of 134mph.

Anstey said, “Right conditions, we’ll be pushing each other and pushing 135 I reckon. I’d really like to have the record back to be honest, but we’ll see what happens. I’ll be trying”.

Bruce is no stranger to success around Dundrod as he finds himself perched fourth in the all-time winner’s standings with an impressive 12 victories around the 7.3 mile circuit.

The 48 year old is set to ride the iconic Clive Padgett-backed Honda RC213V-S in the Superbike class for the second year running. Road racing fans, overwhelmed by the presence of the iconic MotoGP bike in 2016, will be waiting in anticipation to see what Anstey can muster on board the RCV at this year’s event.

Anstey will also compete on 2-stroke machinery for the first time at Dundrod as he makes his maiden appearance on board an Aprilia RS250. He will also ride this bike at the Classic TT, which takes place later this month and Dundrod will provide the perfect opportunity to become accustomed to the new machine.

Anstey said, “This is the first time I’ve run a 250 around here so I’m looking forward to that. It’ll be pretty much flat out everywhere and it’s going to be good fun to ride, but the 600 is good as well”.