Michael Dunlop sets pace at Isle of Man TT as he chases all-time record
Michael Dunlop topped Superbike qualifying
Michael Dunlop went fastest in the Superbike class on the opening day of the 2024 Isle of Man TT.
Dunlop clocked 129.590mph on his Hawk Racing Honda on Monday in qualifying as the world famous motorsport event began.
His father Robert, uncle Joey and brother William have all lost their lives on their motorcycles.
Last year, Dunlop won for the 25th time at the TT, moving to within one more victory of his late uncle Joey's record of 26.
This year, he is expected to break that record in what would be a hugely significant accomplishment - both professionally and personally.
Joey’s record has stood for 24 years.
His bid for history got off to the perfect start when Dunlop led the way around the Mountain Course.
Peter Hickman slotted into third at 128.271mph with both John McGuinness (127.646) and Dean Harrison (125.909) improving as did Davey Todd at 129.575mph, his lap just 0.114 seconds adrift of Dunlop.
A crash earlier this year means he has had to return from a minor knock.
Feeling the effects of that knock at the North West 200, Dunlop registered five third-place finishes.
At the TT, Dunlop will race with a Honda Fireblade in the Superbike class.
He also has a Honda for the Superstock race, but will switch to a Triumph 765cc in the Supersport category.
Dunlop is on a Paton for the Supertwin.
Dunlop has major competition aiming to stop his bid for a 26th TT win.
Peter Hickman has won the past five Superstock races in a row.
He also set a new course record of 136.358mph last year.
Dean Harrison and Davey Todd are among other notable riders expected to be front-runners.
