Guy Martin: 'Tyco BMW goes like you know what off a shovel'

Guy Martin and William Dunlop test their Tyco BMW S1000RRs

TYCO BMW's road racing duo Guy Martin and William Dunlop have had their first test in Spain on-board the BMW S1000RRs they will be racing at this year's TT, North West 200 and Ulster Grand Prix. 

Both riders finished the day with positive comments on the new machinery and both appear ready for the road racing season. 

Martin said: 'I haven’t hardly touched a thing on the Tyco BMW S 1000 RR apart from foot-rests and bars and I’m more than impressed already. It’s that nimble and has such a great feel, you could ride it for a lifetime; it really is a mega bike.

'We rode today on used tyres, which does help you get a good feeling for a bike, and I had one hundred percent confidence in it and felt great. It goes like you know what off a shovel and even though I haven’t ridden a competitive bike for around six months, I know fast when I ride it, and it did everything I asked of it.

'If I’m honest I’ve got more out of the first day on this bike than I did here last year for three days – so take from that what you will.'

Both riders were able to complete a 'generous' amount of laps around the Andalusia race circuit to the point of Dunlop stating he did so many laps it made him dizzy, but overall felt like the bike was made for him. 

'It’s been a good day for me. If I’m honest my initial impressions are a lot better than I thought they would be, and I did come here expecting something positive from the BMW S 1000 RR,' said Dunlop. 

'I’ve gone quicker here today on day one, than I did during the three day test last year. The chassis feels strong and the way the bike changes direction and enters corners is perfect for my style of riding.

'This bike feels like it was build for me and I normally struggle on stock tyres, but I stayed out almost all day and really enjoyed it. I did so many laps I’m almost dizzy. I already think this is the bike to be on this year.'

  • Sign up for Visordown's weekly newsletter, Bugsplat, to get the best motorcycle news, road tests and features plus exclusive competitions and offers direct to your inbox. Register as a Visordown member here and tick the box for Bugsplat in your newsletter settings here.