William Dunlop signs for SMR Yamaha

William Dunlop has put pen to paper on a deal with Shaun Muir's Milwaukee Yamaha team that will see him compete in the North West 200, Isle of Man TT, the Ulster Grand Prix and the British Supersport Championship in 2013.

The Ballymoney rider, son of the later Robert Dunlop and brother of Michael, comes to Milwaukee Yamaha after a particularly successful season on the roads, a campaign that included a podium finish in the Supersport TT race.

Delighted to have secured a deal for 2013 long before the start of the season, Dunlop is looking forward to jumping aboard 'his favourite' Yamaha YZF-R6, while he has high hopes of a victory challenge in the Superbike TT too.

"Joining a team like Milwaukee Yamaha means that on the roads all I have to think about is about going as fast as possible. We will be able to do lots of testing able to get up to speed before the first race, so this is a great team to get involved in," said Dunlop.

"I would not have taken the ride if I did not think I could win a TT, especially on the Yamaha R6 which is my favourite bike to ride but there's no reason why I can't challenge for a win on the Superbike too.

"Racing in Supersport is going to be different because of the new tyres but I think I can do a good job. We have all the tools and I am looking forward to it."