TT 2015: Hickman declared fit to race after neck injury

Peter Hickman is set to make an incredible comeback from injury at the Isle of Man TT after breaking four vertebrae in his neck just four weeks ago at Oulton Park.

The RAF Reserves rider, who is preparing to contest the TT for Briggs Equipment BMW, suffered a nasty high-speed crash at the Cheshire circuit during the third round of the 2015 MCE British Superbike championship last month.

The Louth-based rider's TT plans were initially thrown into jeopardy after discovering the breaks but after testing at Snetterton last week Hickman feels he is fit enough to take on the Isle of Man.

"I felt pretty good at the Snetterton test, a bit stiff obviously but it was good to get back on the bike again and get myself dialled back in again before coming to the TT," Hickman said.

The 27-year-old made a sensational TT debut last year by becoming the fastest ever newcomer. Hickman will contest the Superbike, Superstock and Senior races in 2015 on the BMW S1000RR Superstock machinery. Hickman will also compete in the two Supersport races on the island on a 675cc MV Agusta for Lee Hardy Racing.

Although he is delighted to be fit enough to race at the TT, Hickman is well-aware he should not push himself too hard and risk further injury on the unforgiving 37.73-mile course.

"It's only my second year and I don't want to run before I can walk so it makes sense to make it as easy for myself as possible," he said. "Now I'm here, I can't wait to get going and just want to start getting the laps in."