By Since joining the TT Races entry in 2010, Adelaide’s David Johnson has gone onto compete for a who’s who of leading International roads teams.
For TT 2020, the affable Johnson prior to the Covid-19 pandemic forcing the cancellation of competition on Mona’s Isle, was due to compete alongside 2013 Lightweight TT Champ James Hillier for International roads newcomer’s Rich Energy OMG Racing.
Due to pilot S1000RR BMW’s in Superstock and Superbike trim, I was curious to gain his thoughts on returning to piloting BMW’s fabled mount around the unique, unparalleled Mountain Course.
He stated “I’ve always loved the BMW. They suit my style. And with the OMG team preparing my bikes, they will be absolute weapons! Can’t wait to ride them!”
Adding his opinion on reclaiming the title of Australia’s fastest TT competitor, which he first gained in 2015, lapping at 131.595 mph during the Pokerstars Senior race, ‘Davo’ stated:
“I don’t really think about that. I just look at end results. I’ve broken down early in the last 2 senior TT’s where I always go my fastest. My ideal fastest lap is 132.8 mph. I think that sorts it.”
More known for his prowess on 1000cc, 600cc machinery, it was interesting to find out whether the 2019 RST Superbike Classic TT winner had a ride lined-up for the Bennetts Lightweight class at TT 2020.
It turns out that he had landed another plum ride with none other than reigning Lightweight TT runners-up KTS Racing.
“I had a Lightweight ride lined up with Kevin Watret at the KTS Kawasaki team. They have had some great results so far so I was looking forward to that.”
Whilst pure road racing struggles at times in Australia for prime publicity, Johnson’s Superbike Classic TT success, Superstock TT rostrum finish last year changed this.
“It’s been great! A lot of support from people here. Even did a bit of TV and radio interview bits which is unheard of here in Adelaide for motorbike racer.
Media here is all about Aussie rules football, cricket and Australian V8 Super Cars racing. So I was happy with that.”
My final question to the three times International road race podium finisher, revolved around how much he is looking forward to TT 2021. His candid answer was:
“It feels like forever away! I just want to race something! Macau GP is my only hope left for 2020 so I’ll focus on that for now but looking at the current weather on the Isle of Man right now when we are supposed to be there, it’s hard not to be pissed off. So yeah, TT 2021 can’t come soon enough!!”
Words by Stevie Rial
