John McGuinness claimed that his speed would guarantee a Honda ride on Man TT Island in 2025.
The legendary racer returns to his 24th TT in his 35th year race.
His 23 victories on the Mountain Course were only improved by Joey Dunlop (26) and Michael Dunlop (29).
However, McGuinness is now 52 years old, and managed a P5 finish in last year’s senior TT.
“I don’t want to sound rude to anyone else,” McGuinness told the Belfast newsletter.
“But if someone was much faster than me, they’d ride a Honda, right?
“For me, I’m proud of it to line up on the grid with my Honda shirt on. No one can take it from me.
“My role right now has changed slightly. I can still ride a bike. It’s nice when Honda says, “There’s a bike, have fun, support wherever you finish.”
McGuinness is back at the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade at North West 200 and TT.
Dean Harrison – Three TT winners are McGuiness ‘Honda Racing UK teammates.
“Nothing can bring me more joy than seeing the brand back to its sharp end, especially in Dean,” McGuinness said.
“Dean doesn’t etch his words, he continues his work, he pushes hard, he pushes to the end of the envelope with any bike he’s riding.”