Ian Lougher swapped his team manager's cap for his Shoei racing helmet last week as he got acquainted for the first time with the Team Blackhorse Yamaha 2008 R1 Superbike during testing at Darley Moor.
To say the vastly experienced Welshman was impressed would be something of an understatement as he blasted the FW Developments tuned machine to lap record pace after only ten laps.
Speaking afterwards, a delighted Ian said:
"Although it's come together very late, I'm really pleased with how the R1 bike has turned out. The Yamaha turns and drops into the corners so well, that it makes things much easier for a smaller rider like myself. That coupled with the revvy engine, makes it feel very 'two stroke like' to ride."
"I can't wait to get cracking at the North-West 200."