IOMTT: Josh Brookes Fastest Newcomer Ever at the TT

British Superbike fans might recognize the name, but Josh Brookes is making headlines with his Isle of Man TT debut, having set the fastest Mountain Course lap ever for a newcomer. Teammate to Guy Martin on the Tyco Suzuki team, Brookes is showing himself to be a very capable road racer having finished 10th in the 2013 Dainese Superbike TT.

Posting a 127.726 mph lap, Brookes shattered Steve Plater’s record of 125.808 mph from 2007. The new high-water mark isn’t likely to last though, as Brookes will have another shot at it on Superbike equipment later this week during the Senior TT, the blue-ribbon and final race of the 2013 IOMTT.

“I knew that last lap was fast and I really enjoyed it, but this place is so much more physical than I thought it would be,” said Brookes. “There are so many factors that you have to consider like a full tank of fuel down into places like Quarter Bridge and getting caught-up behind other riders, but I have massive respect for this place. My Tyco Suzuki worked really well; as did the Metzeler tyres. Thanks to all the boys for a big effort. I think I deserve a beer tonight!”

“What can I say about Josh Brookes: 125mph was amazing but to then jump to 127mph on the last lap is some effort,” said Tyco Suzuki boss Philip Neill. “He’s really enjoying himself but we have to keep it realistic. A top-10 in the Superbike TT with only one top rider dropping out is a phenomenal effort, although I think I’ve aged 10 years today watching that!”