Norton Rotary to be raced by Michael Dunlop at the 2025 Classic TT

Michael Dunlop is the most successful rider at the Isle of Man TT with 33 victories, but later this month he’ll swap modern machinery for a WizNorton WRS 588cc Rotary bike.

Dunlop is set to ride the bike in the Formula 1 Classic TT race, while the likes of John McGuinness, Davey Todd, Ian Hutchinson and Dean Harrison are also expected to feature at the event.

Making its return in 2025 after a five-year absence, the Classic TT is set to kick off with qualifying on Wednesday, August 20. The Formula 1 race will then take place one week later on August 27.

The Dunlop name and Norton Rotary go back a very long way, with Robert Dunlop (Michael’s father) becoming intertwined with the British-built machine during its golden era. Robert Dunlop achieved podiums with the iconic machine in both the 1990 Formula 1 TT and 1992 Senior TT.

Like the Dunlop family, Norton has also enjoyed success around the Isle of Man’s famous mountain course, so with all the history behind their names, especially together, the Michael Dunlop and Norton link-up was seemingly a no-brainer.

Former Grand Prix and TT racer Trevor Nation also tasted success on the Norton Rotary during its glory days on the racing stage. However, one of its finest moments came in 1992, when Steve Hislop took victory in the Senior TT following a race-long battle with Carl Fogarty, who would later go on to become a fan favourite for his World Superbike success.

Alongside Dunlop, Nation will also be riding a WizNorton machine as part of this month’s TT Rewind, which includes an 80s and 90s-themed parade lap that the veteran rider will take part in. The 2025 Classic TT will also celebrate Dunlop’s uncle, Joey Dunlop, and his achievements.

It’s been 25 years since Joey Dunlop lost his life after suffering a crash while leading a race in Estonia. To celebrate the road racing legend, his nephew will perform a tribute lap on Friday, August 29.

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