Honda to run Metzeler for North West 200 and Isle of Man TT

METZELER will be joining up with Honda for the 2022 road racing season to supply tyres to the factory Honda riders for the upcoming road races such as the North West 200 and Isle of Man TT.

Honda will be using Metzeler’s Racetec RR Slick tyres on the superbikes, and Racetec RRs, which are road legal, on the superstock machines. There are also new sizes available in Metzeler’s selection for 2022, which Metzeler says will be available for the Honda Racing UK riders to test before the start of the North West 200 later this month.

While Honda has an unchallenged win record of 189 wins at the TT, Metzeler also has a strong recent history, after winning the 2019 Senior TT with Dean Harrison. 

Of course, Metzeler will not be the only new addition for Honda’s road racing effort in 2022, as its lead British Superbike rider, Glenn Irwin, makes his Honda debut on the roads, and full debut at the TT. Irwin will also be racing at the North West 200, where he has won with Metzeler in the past. 

Metzeler UK Racing Manager, Jason Griffiths, said “To partner Honda Racing UK in what is also the 30th anniversary of the Fireblade certainly adds to the sense of anticipation. Glenn has taken victories at the North West 200 and Macau GP with Metzeler, and we look forward to continuing the relationship this season. John is synonymous with the TT and Metzeler is proud to play a role in his 100th TT start.”

Havier Beltran, Honda Racing UK’s Team Manager, said, “2022 is an important year for Honda Racing as we showcase the 30th Anniversary Honda Fireblade; which has had such a fantastic start to the BSB season with Glenn Irwin.”

Beltran added, “Glenn has already had experience and success on Metzeler tyres which is crucial as he goes into his first TT whilst John obviously has massive experience to draw from in all conditions. We’re really excited to be working with Metzeler to help develop their tyres still further on the Roads this season.”