By Although widely anticipated by road racing insiders, today is the day that it is official, Bradford’s Dean Harrison will join forces with Honda Racing for next year’s TT Races.
The third quickest racer in TT history, is poised to race the newly unveiled, latest spec CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, CBR 600RR steeds in the Superbike, Superstock, Senior, Supersport races.
Speaking today via Honda Racing UK’s website, Harrison who is also set to venture back to the Northwest 200 and undertake a full BSB campaign, stated:
“I can’t wait to begin a new chapter with Honda Racing UK, and I jumped at the chance when this opportunity came about. If I’m honest, it hasn’t sunk in yet and I don’t think it will until I get to ride the bike for the first time in Honda colours.
It feels like a really good time to have a refresh and now is as good a time as any for a change. I have always been a Honda fan, and Honda is the way I want to go.
I am also really looking forward to being part of a multi-rider team after riding in a solo team for so long.
To be able to see each other’s data and collaborate on ideas is going to be of great value to me.
The short circuits are a big part of my season and I think that working with Andrew and the team will help to bring me on and push me to the next level.
Then on the roads, to work with John and Nathan, both of whom I have a great working relationship with, is exciting. I think that the Honda package, with the new bike, could be the missing link that I need.”
As disclosed above, Harrison’s new Honda Racing roads (TT/NW200 focused) team-mates are John McGuinness MBE and Nathan Harrison.
McGuinness MBE, 2019 Senior Manx GP winner Harrison (Nathan) join Steve Henshaw Gold Cup victor Harrison (Dean) in piloting the 2024 specification CBR 1000RR-R Fireblade SP package.
Supersport wise, it’s Harrison’s times two for the works Honda outfit with Morecambe roads legend McGuinness MBE, making the decision to prioritise 1000cc action.
Honda Racing Team Manager Havier Beltran, stated about Honda’s squad that boasts 26 TT wins in total.
“I truly believe that our road racing lineup perfectly balances youthful enthusiasm, experience, talent and ambition, and I eagerly look forward to witnessing Dean, John and Nathan compete with these new models.
Dean is one of the most compelling riders to witness on the roads and I am confident that we can provide him with the machinery to showcase his remarkable talents.
Keeping John for another year is simply brilliant, he and Honda share so much history and he brings so much to this team that continuing for another year was a very easy decision to make.
2023 was a tough year for Nathan but he never lost his determination or the smile on his face. This was always about progression, building into things and taking our time to grow together, continuing that journey with him will be fantastic.”
Photo via Honda Racing UK website
Quotes via Honda Racing UK website
Words by Stevie Rial #dontletfearcontrolyou
