North West 200: Day 1
Last updated 16th May 2018
By Aaron O’Neill
Tuesday’s first practice session presented the riders with their first opportunity to test out their machines around the 8.9 mile Triangle circuit.
With the sirens to signal road closures around the track and the dulcet tone ringing through the paddock, it was time for the 2018 newcomers to enjoy their first taste of the North West 200. Under the strict supervision of some of the sport’s most talented ex-competitors, the so-called new boys got to grips with the fast flowing circuit.
The Supersport machines were next out on track with arguably the most competitive field of riders to date. Alastair Seeley, Lee Johnston, James Hillier and the Dunlop brothers emerging as pre-race favourites, it was important for all the riders to get on track and set a fast time in dry conditions.
Michael Dunlop was the man to beat in the opening session as he was 2.8 seconds faster than brother William and JG Speedfit Kawasaki mounted James Hillier. Most of the riders used Tuesday’s session to get a basic setup in what were changing conditions as rain set in on the North Coast.
The third session of the day was the Superbike machines, the class which drew widespread attention. Lee Johnston Michael Dunlop and James Cowton the early pace setters in the Superbike class before the session was red flagged after one competitor had to be airlifted to hospital following an incident at University Corner.
Many of the riders remarked about the poor condition of the track which made it difficult for many to find their feet. A dusty and greasy surface was the general consensus among those on the grid with many expecting riding conditions to improve as the week progresses.
After the restart it was the turn of the Supertwins to take to the track and get to grips with the conditions. Renowned as the budget class, the 650cc class has served up some of the closest battles around the Triangle since bursting onto the scene a few years ago.
Derek McGee topped the leader board on board Ryan Farquhar’s KMR Kawasaki. Last year’s winner, Martin Jessopp found himself second whilst local lad Adam McLean rounded out the top three before the red flag appeared.
The Superstock session got underway following the red flag, in rather tricky conditions. The track was wet under foot which added to the difficulty of the track conditions and left riders pondering over tyre choice.
Alastair Seeley shot to the top of the pile as he looked comfortable onboard the Tyco BMW. Yorkshire man Dean Harrison slotted into second on the timing screen whilst Gary Johnston found himself third on his return to the event.
That was to be all she wrote for practice session one at the 2018 Vauxhall International North West 200. With better weather forecast for Thursday and track conditions improving by the day, riders, organisers and fans wait in anticipation for the rest of race week to unfold.