Ten times TT winner Ian Lougher has switched from the John Chapman Racing 500 MV Agusta due to reliability problems, to piloting a RC181 Honda which is a replica of a 1966 machine piloted by none other than 14 times TT champion Mike Hailwood.
The bike which is also from John Chapman’s stable, adds yet another touch of variety, diversity and nostalgia to the four lap Senior Classic TT.
This evening is scheduled to see from 6:20 PM, Ian gain his first laps on his new mount with the Senior classic machines amongst the first away, following the schedule for tonight’s session been changed, due to last evening’s practice session been curtailed.
Photo by Louis Porter
Alongside action in the Senior class, practice week to date sees Ian currently topping the time sheets in the Lightweight class, on the Laylaw Racing Yamaha.
Lapping on Tuesday evening at 113.893 mph, the Welshman put down an early marker, ahead of the four lap race, set to take to the TT Course tomorrow.
Looking back towards the Senior race, it’s difficult to say how competitive he will be with the RC181 Honda, given that literally his only action prior to the race on the machine, will be tonight.
One things for sure though, Ian will give it absolutely everything to secure another high quality result, on the iconic Mountain Course.
Words by Stevie Rial