Image: Supplied.

David Johnson will join Ian Hutchinson at Honda Racing for the 2019 International North West 200 and Isle of Man TT, where the duo will contest the Superbike and Superstock 1000 classes aboard the CBR1000RR Fireblade SP2.

Johnson made his debut at the TT in 2010 aboard Honda machinery where he claimed the accolade of fastest newcomer that year. The Australian has since racked up three fourth place finishes at the mountain course and was close to a podium last year in the Superbike race. His best result at the Ulster GP has been third, while his North West 200 placing is seventh.

“I am really happy to join the Honda Racing team for this season,” Johsnon stated. “Over the years they have been incredibly successful on the roads and won a lot at the TT – I feel that I will gel with the Fireblade, so I’m very excited to get started and ride the bikes.

“With Hutchy getting fitter from his injuries I think we’ll work together well and I will have some great people around me in the team. I can’t wait to get back to the UK and start testing.”

Honda Racing team manager Jonny Twelvetrees commented: “I’m really pleased to have ‘Davo’ with the team for this season, he’s been a strong contender since his debut in 2010 and I know it won’t be long before he’s on the TT podium. He had a good season last year with two 4th places at the TT and a podium at the Ulster, so I’m excited to see what he can do on the Fireblade this year.”

The Honda Racing team will now embark on a comprehensive testing programme before tackling the road circuits, starting with the North West 200 in May.