John McGuinness Opens Up About His Isle of Man TT Strategy
Veteran motorcycle racer John McGuinness has expressed his willingness to have less experienced riders follow him around the Isle of Man TT circuit, according to a report by Crash.net. The 23-time TT winner, who is competing at the age of 53, believes that sharing his knowledge with others can only help to improve the sport.
McGuinness, who rides for Honda, was able to put in some impressive lap times on Friday during the TT, despite a weather-hit start to the event. However, it was Paul Jordan, who was following him closely, that caught the attention of many in the paddock. McGuinness welcomed the close attention, joking that Jordan might even steal his job. "Paul might get my job! You never know," he said, as quoted by Crash.net. "I had a steady first lap, but he was right there. I thought: ‘Do you know what, I’ll have a go on the second lap…’ He followed me all the way around. I’m not too worried about showing anybody around here anymore! I’ve got no secrets, really."
The seasoned rider, who has competed at the TT for many years, insists that he is always nervous before a big event, and this year’s TT is no exception. "I am really, really nervous. I always do," he said, according to Crash.net. "It’s the big #1 plate on the Honda. There is expectation. Not from the team, but I put a bit of pressure on myself. That’s the Isle of Man." McGuinness also praised Jordan, describing him as a "good rider" and a "professional" who is part of a strong team.
Meanwhile, McGuinness’ teammate Dean Harrison has been making waves at the TT, setting the fastest-ever qualifying lap on Wednesday and continuing his impressive form on Friday. Harrison was fastest in the Supersport class on a Honda and in the Superstock class on a BMW, according to Crash.net. Harrison credited his team’s hard work for his success, saying: "We ride this bike week-in week-out so I know it well. We’re making changes to make it steer under drive. We have made big changes. Made a massive step."
In the Superbike class, Harrison was seventh, just marginally faster than McGuinness. Nathan Harrison, who didn’t secure a factory Honda ride this year, was the top Honda rider in the class. Dean Harrison also talked about the challenges of riding different bikes, saying: "The 600cc is such a different thing it’s hard to have a transition. The big bike is the most difficult at the moment, it’s a bit lively. John has had a similar thing."
McGuinness, who was eighth-fastest in Superbike qualifying with a 128.386mph lap, is looking forward to the rest of the event. The Crash.net report suggests that McGuinness’ experience and expertise will be valuable in helping to bring on younger riders, and he is happy to share his knowledge with others. As the TT continues, fans will be eagerly watching to see how McGuinness and Harrison perform.
