McGuinness, Plater form HM Plant road line-up.
HM Plant Honda have confirmed Steve Plater and John McGuinness will form their road racing line-up for the 2009 season.
A formidable line-up for the two-time British Superbike Champions, McGuinness is a 14-time Isle of Man TT winner, while Plater has won the North West 200 on six occasions himself.
HM Plant Honda have confirmed Steve Plater and John McGuinness will form their road racing line-up for the 2009 season.
A formidable line-up for the two-time British Superbike Champions, McGuinness is a 14-time Isle of Man TT winner, while Plater has won the North West 200 on six occasions himself.
Honda made their motorcycle racing debut at the Isle of Mann TT in 1959, meaning next year's race will also signal a Golden Road-Racing anniversary for the Japanese manufacturer. For McGuinness, who will race in the Superbike, Supersport and Superstock categories on the island, he is delighted to be leading the celebrations.
"It's a pleasure to continue my time with HM Plant Honda - one of the most respected teams in the road-race scene and also, to be back with some of the mechanics that I've had TT success with in the past. I know that with the team behind me and even further developments and improvements to both the Fireblade and CBR600RR we'll be in good shape for both these important events."
Plater, meanwhile, is determined to add to his many North West triumphs, as well as put in a strong showing on the Isle of Man, a race he won last year racing in the Supersport class.
"For me in 2009, the North West 200 and Isle of Man TT races are so close to my heart and a massive part of my season," said Steve. "I've won a few races at the North West, but I'm still hungry for more. I took three wins from four races there this year, but I wanted a clean sweep - that's now the aim for 2009.
"At the TT, to be the fastest newcomer ever was a dream, but that meant I didn't know if I should go back - as how do you beat a year like that? I have decided to finish my 'three-year apprenticeship' of the Island though and this year I took the Supersport win, and in doing so took five seconds out of John on the Mountain. You don't do that lightly, so I'm also looking forward to the TT with HM Plant Honda."
In addition, Sidecar TT winners Nick Crowe and Mark Cox will race in HM Plant Honda colours.
