Michael Dunlop to make Tyco BMW debut at North West 200
Fifteen-time Isle of Man TT winner Michael Dunlop has joined Tyco BMW for the 2018 Isle of Man TT Races.
The 28-year-old Northern Ireland rider will campaign the TAS Racing-prepared Tyco BMW S1000RR in the RST Superbike and PokerStars Senior Races at the Isle of Man TT and further International road racing events including the North West 200 and Ulster GP.
With multiple race wins and lap records under his belt since his TT debut in 2007, Michael’s skill and determination is without doubt and he remains the first and only rider to lap the 37.73mile Mountain Course in less than 17 minutes.
His passion for road racing is mirrored by that of father and son pairing – Hector and Philip Neill – team owner and manager of TAS Racing. The Northern Ireland-based team have to date secured 27 International North West 200 victories and 18 race wins at the iconic Isle of Man TT.
Michael Dunlop will make his Tyco BMW debut at the Vauxhall International North West 200.
Michael Dunlop
“Tyco and I have spoken many times but nothing ever came of it, this year everything fell into place.” the Ballymoney man said.
“I think it’s a good time for us both to have go at a partnership, I think both can bring something to the table and I’m looking forward to seeing the outcome.”
Michael lost out to his Tyco BMW mounted elder brother, William in a thrilling last lap battle in the 2014 NW 200 Superbike race. He will now replace last year’s NW200 Superstock race winner, Ian Hutchinson who has joined Honda for the 2018 road race season.
Philip Neill – Tyco BMW Team Manager
“It has taken some time for this to come together and I’m very happy to confirm Michael Dunlop and TAS Racing/Tyco BMW will finally work together in 2018. Michael and I have discussed options to work together on various occasions and I honestly believe this is a partnership that simply had to happen at some point. My father and I, together with all the guys at TAS Racing, are excited and looking forward to the challenge. We would not be in this position without the support of our partners Tyco and BMW Motorrad and both are extremely happy to reach agreement with Michael for the 2018 season.”
