NEWS | First Look

Isle of Man TT 2025 Preview – New Bikes, Big Names, and the Quest for Record Laps

Bike N Rider Staff|May 18, 2025
Isle of Man TT 2025 Preview – New Bikes, Big Names, and the Quest for Record Laps

The 2025 TT: Continuation of a New Era

The Isle of Man TT has undergone a resurgence in recent years. After pandemic-related disruptions, the event roared back to life with stunning performances in 2022, 2023, and 2024 – including outright lap records being shattered. Now in 2025, the TT looks set to build on that momentum. The schedule remains packed over the fortnight with multiple races: two Supersbike TTs (including the blue-riband Senior TT), two Supersport TTs, Superstock TT, Supertwin TT, and Sidecar races. There’s no huge shake-up in the event schedule or classes this year – stability that teams and riders appreciate, allowing them to refine their approach on the 37.73-mile Mountain Course. One notable change: a section of the course has been renamed “Rutters” (formerly Glen Helen 1) in honor of TT legends Tony and Michael Rutter. A special parade lap is planned to celebrate the contributions of the Rutter family, featuring icons like 24-time winner John McGuinness and others. But once tributes are done, it’s down to racing – and there’s a sense that we are in a golden era of competition, with multiple riders and manufacturers at peak form.

The big question: will we see the 136 mph lap record fall again? In 2023, Peter Hickman stunned the road racing world with an incredible 136.358 mph lap on his BMW during a Superstock TT, raising the outright lap record bar. 2024 saw Hickman and rival Michael Dunlop trade blistering times, with Dunlop breaking the Superbike lap record and Hickman consistently in the 135+ range. As of 2025, that 136.358 stands as the target. Conditions, machine improvements, and rider motivation all seem aligned for another potential record assault. The top guys have openly said a 137 mph average lap is within reach if everything goes perfectly – a mind-boggling prospect, considering that means lapping the nearly 38-mile course in under 16 minutes and 30 seconds, averaging over 220 km/h (136+ mph). It’s almost unimaginable, yet at the TT, the line of impossibility keeps moving.

New or Improved Bikes to Watch

One of the delights of TT is seeing how the latest superbikes and tech perform on the ultimate proving ground. TT 2025 will feature updated machinery from several manufacturers:

  • Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP: The Honda superbike received minor updates and tuning refinements for 2025. Honda had a triumphant return in 2023 with Dunlop riding a factory-backed CBR to multiple wins, equaling then surpassing his uncle Joey’s win record. Dunlop will likely stick with Honda for Superbike/Senior races in 2025, and the Fireblade’s strong handling could shine on the twisty sections. Honda also introduced a new CBR600RR for Supersport after years of absence; paired with Dunlop’s skill (he did the first ever 130 mph Supersport lap in 2023), it’s a potent combo.

  • BMW M1000RR: Hickman’s weapon of choice remains the BMW, which in 2025 gets aero tweaks and engine refinements (some trickle-down from World Superbike). His FHO Racing BMW is known for incredible top-end speed – he used it to good effect on the Mountain Course’s long straights, evidenced by smashing the lap record in Superstock trim. We anticipate Hickman’s BMW will again be among the fastest through the Sulby speed trap (where 200+ mph speeds are now routine for the top bikes).

  • Yamaha YZF-R7 in Supertwin? A notable shift in the Supertwin (lightweight) class recently is more riders opting for machines like the Aprilia RS660 and Yamaha MT-07/R7 based twins, moving away from the traditional Kawasaki ER-6 650s. For 2025, we expect further development there – perhaps new Aprilia or Yamaha entries aiming to push Supertwin lap records (which are now over 123 mph average).

  • Ducati Panigale V2 in Supersport: Davey Todd made headlines bringing a Ducati 955 Panigale V2 to the Supersport class. It’s unusual since Supersport has been 600cc fours or 675 triples historically, but rule changes allow up to 765cc triples or ~955cc twins to balance performance. Todd performed well on it in 2024. Ducati’s little superbike has strong midrange torque – could we see the first Ducati TT win since Mike Hailwood’s days? It would be a storyline: a Ducati twin beating the Yamahas and Hondas in Supersport. Keep an eye on Todd and that distinctive sounding V2.

  • Kawasaki ZX-10RR and ZX-6R: Kawasaki has been a bit quiet in terms of TT wins lately (last big bike win was 2019, Dean Harrison). Harrison remains on a ZX-10RR with DAO Racing and will likely have updated support. Kawasaki also updated their ZX-6R supersport for Euro5. Harrison is a former Senior TT champion and no slouch – with Dunlop and Hickman hogging the limelight, he’s the dark horse who could upset if the others slip. The ZX-10RR is known for stability and top-end, which suits the TT well.

  • Triumph Street Triple 765 RS: Triumph’s 765 triple has become a contender in Supersport. In 2024, multiple riders rode them to podiums, proving their competitiveness. That triple’s distinctive wail will again echo through Glen Helen and up the Mountain. Bruce Anstey (if he returns) or Gary Johnson might pilot one to good results.

  • Electric? Not yet: The TT had a TT Zero electric class until 2019, but it’s currently on hiatus as electric tech in bikes catches up. So 2025 TT remains all petrol. But one subplot: Mugen (which dominated TT Zero) has been developing a hydrogen-powered race bike. While not on the entry list, innovations like that lurk in the wings for future TT editions as the event pushes technology boundaries.

Star Riders: The Big Names and Their Quests

The “Big Three” of road racing right now are Michael Dunlop, Peter Hickman, and Dean Harrison. All eyes will be on this trio in the major classes:

  • Michael Dunlop: Now the most successful TT rider in history with 27 wins (surpassing Uncle Joey’s 26). By TT 2025, if all went well, he could be edging close to 30 wins at age 36. Michael’s focus will be on finally clinching another Senior TT win – interestingly, his last Senior win was back in 2014. He’s been killer in Supersport and Supertwin classes (where he holds lap records and multiple consecutive wins). But Hickman has pipped him in the big bike races lately. You can bet Dunlop is hungry to not only keep accumulating wins but also to take back the outright lap record which was briefly his (he set a 135.5mph lap in 2023 Superbike race) before Hickman topped it days later. Riding for Honda (Superbike/Superstock) and likely on his MD Racing Yamaha for Supersport, Dunlop will be one to watch every time he sets off down Bray Hill.

  • Peter Hickman: With 13 TT wins and the lap record, Hickman has firmly established himself as a TT legend in the making. 2023 and 2024 saw him take multiple wins, including the Senior TT (he’s won 3 of the last 4 Seniors). Hickman’s calm, analytical approach and superbike background make him extremely fast and consistent. For 2025, he remains with the FHO Racing BMW squad in big bikes and a Triumph 765 in Supersport. He’s hinted that 2025 could be the year someone does a 137 mph lap if conditions align. Many suspect if anyone can, it’s Hicky. He’s also creeping up the win ranks – he could potentially hit 15-16 wins by the end of 2025. Beyond wins, Hickman might target the first-ever 17-minute lap (which would be ~133.45 mph average; he’s already well past that). So far reliability has been on his side, and barring issues, he’ll be a threat in every race he enters (he usually does all but Supertwin, although he even won a Supertwin race in 2024).

  • Dean Harrison: Often the third name in the conversation, Harrison shouldn’t be underestimated. With 4 TT wins and many podiums, the 2019 Senior TT winner is a fan favorite on the green Kawasaki. He had a tough 2023 with some mechanical issues but bounced back in 2024 with solid finishes. For 2025, Harrison will look to reclaim the top step. He’s especially strong in the opening sectors of the course (he often sets fastest times to Glen Helen). If his bike goes the distance (some reliability woes in past), he absolutely can win. Harrison is also one of the bravest through sections like Ballagarey and bottom of Barregarrow – he’ll push the limits to stay with Dunlop and Hickman. Perhaps an updated ZX-10RR and fresh motivation will see him add to his tally.

Other notable riders: John McGuinness, at 52 years old, is likely on his farewell TT laps (though he’s hinted at that before). He’s at 23 wins, tied with the late Joey Dunlop for second on the all-time list. 2025 might be John’s last TT as a competitor. He’s not expected to win (his last win was 2015), but his presence is iconic. A top 10 finish would be a great result for him and will get huge cheers. Davey Todd is a rising star – the young British rider, 2022 National road racing champ, has podiums and is itching for his first win. He’ll be on a Honda Superbike and that Ducati Supersport, plus a Honda or Kawasaki in Superstock/Supertwin. If anyone from the younger generation could upset the established trio, Todd or maybe James Hillier (veteran still chasing another win) could. Jamie Coward on Yamaha and Lee Johnston (if he’s back from injury) are also podium threats in smaller classes. In Sidecars, the Birchall brothers will aim to continue their streak – they’ve dominated with 12 straight TT wins and set a 120.7mph lap record in 2023.

The Hunt for Records

Records are a TT constant: every year, someone is eyeing a lap record or race time record. For 2025, several are in play:

  • Outright lap record: 136.358mph by Hickman – will we see a 137? If weather is cool and calm and there’s a “race to the flag” situation between Hickman and Dunlop or Harrison, it could happen. After all, in 2023 that record lap was done in a Superstock race (slightly less aero bodywork and standard-ish engine). In a Senior TT with full superbikes, fresh tire, low fuel – maybe the stars align.

  • First 140mph lap? Unlikely this soon – that would require leaps in tire tech or aero. But the fact we even mention it shows how fast things have gotten.

  • Supersport lap record: Dunlop pushed it over 130mph in 2023. Could he go 131? If conditions good, possibly. He’s raised the bar for 600s incredibly high.

  • Sidecar lap record: The Birchalls eked past 120mph. They themselves said 121+ might be possible if they had competition pushing them. If another team (like Pete Founds/Jevan Walmsley, who also hit 120) gives chase, we might see mid-120s.

  • Win records: Dunlop will be extending his own record – every win sets a new benchmark beyond 27. Also, if he wins 4 races again (like he did in 2023), he could reach 31 wins, something unfathomable a decade ago. On the flipside, John McGuinness likely will remain at 23 unless a miracle happens, but that number itself is historic.

  • First-time winners: There’s always focus on who might join the TT winners’ club. 2024 saw new winners in some classes (e.g., first-time Sidecar winner for driver Ryan Crowe). In 2025, eyes on Davey Todd or Jamie Coward to possibly snag a maiden TT win.

The Human Element

Beyond machines and numbers, the TT is about the riders’ stories. 2025 will likely see:

  • Michael Dunlop vs. Peter Hickman rivalry: It’s friendly off-track, but on track it’s intense. Each has strengths – Dunlop sheer natural talent and late braking heroics, Hickman precise lines and mind-blowing top-end pace. Fans have camps, but respect both.

  • Safety and lap records interplay: After record speeds, TT organizers often reflect on safety improvements. The course has seen safety upgrades (air-fences, better marshalling, tiny course adjustments). Riders are aware they push the edge. 2025’s insane speeds will no doubt rekindle safety debates, but the TT community typically embraces that progress and risk balance.

  • Local Heroes: Manx rider Conor Cummins (a veteran with multiple podiums but no TT win yet) will again chase that elusive victory on home soil. The island crowd would go ballistic if Conor finally wins one. He’s on a Honda, and though now in his late 30s, he’s still very quick.

  • Weather wildcard: As always, the Isle of Man weather can change everything. A perfectly dry two weeks can lead to many records. A wet or unpredictable week can level fields and produce surprise results. Forecasts will be watched keenly.

For race fans worldwide, the TT remains the ultimate test of man and machine. The 2025 edition promises to be one for the ages – the combination of peak-performing riders, ever-improving bikes, and the eternal challenge of the Mountain Course is a recipe for something special. Will we see new records? Likely. Will we witness legendary feats of courage and skill? Undoubtedly. And as the likes of Dunlop and Hickman chase immortality, and others carve out their own TT legacies, one thing is sure: the 2025 Isle of Man TT will further cement why this event is unlike any other in motorsport – a true road racing spectacle where history is written at 136+ mph, one lap at a time.