Roads: First pictures emerge of David Johnson with Tyco BMW HP4 at Ulster GP

The first pictures of Aussie David Johnson with his carbon-fibre framed Tyco BMW HP4 Race have emerged at the Ulster Grand Prix.

Johnson competed at this year’s North West 200 and Isle of Man TT in iconic Gulf colours with Shaun Muir Racing, but will switch to the Moneymore-based TAS Racing effort for next week’s races at Dundrod.

Taking two fourth places at this year’s TT aboard the SMR machine, the Aussie heads to the Ulster GP on good form. This time last year he achieved his best ever result around the 7.4-mile Dundrod course with fourth place in the Superstock race.

It will mark the first time the Tyco BMW squad have run their carbon-framed, 215bhp HP4 machine.

“The Ulster is one of my favourite tracks so it’s great to have this opportunity with Tyco,” Johnson said. “The team knows what they’re doing and are proven winners around here, and with the HP4 R I’ll also have the machinery to challenge with for sure. The bikes will be amazing so it’s all down to me.”

“I’ve been on BMWs all year and was riding them at Dundrod in 2017 too, so I’m feeling good and should be up to speed right away. It’s always hard to know until you get there, but for me the big goal is to get on the podium and be in the fight for wins with Hicky, Dean and guys right at the front. If we come away with that I’ll be happy.”

It is not yet known whether Michael Dunlop will appear at the event with the Tyco BMW team. The 18-time TT winner hasn’t raced since the death of his brother William at Skerries last month.