Buildbase Suzuki endured the worst the weather at this year’s Isle of Man TT races could throw at them to ensure newcomer Jay Lawrence enjoyed three successful outings on its GSX-R1000R machinery, with finishes in the Superbike, Superstock, and Senior TTs.
Carl Cox Motorsport-backed Lawrence was making his debut at the TT, but arrived boasting an impressive CV with road racing wins around the famous Cemetery Circuit in his native New Zealand, plus a finish in the Classic TT superbike race in 2018, racing with Team Classic Suzuki.
Despite losing most of practice week to inclement weather and numerous schedule reshuffles during race week, Lawrence and the team worked hard to improve their speed and bike setup for every session, and came away with a 22nd in the event’s opening Superbike TT, followed by an impressive 17th in the Superstock race. In the blue ribband Senior TT, Lawrence concluded the event with a 22nd place finish, with a best lap of 124.46mph.
Lawrence said afterwards, "What an event the TT is. It’s been quite something to reflect on since Friday’s Senior. I was pretty nervous lining up for those six laps, I’ll be honest. The limited practice throughout the two weeks probably affected how fast we ultimately went, and definitely think there was a bit more in the tank.
"But I couldn’t have been in better hands – Steve Hicken [team manager] and the Buildbase Suzuki team were so prepared and their experience showed all through the fortnight. It was such a pleasure to be able to hit the track every time I went out, knowing the bike was right.
"The team was fantastic at guiding me through, listening to my feedback, taking it onboard and making a plan for the next session. I felt we made good steps forwards every time we went out, and I’m really thankful for their efforts over the last two weeks."
Steve Hicken, Buildbase Suzuki team manager added, "It was a departure from the norm for us as a team this year, to come to the TT with a newcomer, but it was a great experience to work with Jay.
"He was sensible in his approach and went about things in the right way, and got on with everyone in the team. It wasn’t the easiest TT for a newcomer, with massively limited track time across the two weeks, but 17th in the Superstock TT was an impressive result and we were pleased to be able to help him lap at over 124mph and pick up a bronze replica in the Senior TT."
The Buildbase Suzuki team now turns its attentions back to the Bennetts British Superbike Championship, which continues this weekend at Brands Hatch.
Suzuki’s GSX-R1000R is currently available on 0% APR finance. For more details on the GSX-R1000R and the offer, click here.
0% APR Finance available on 2018 models of GSX-R1000R/RZ. HP and PCP finance. Credit is available to UK residents aged 18 and over, subject to status. Suzuki Financial Services Limited, St William House, Tresillian Terrace, Cardiff, CF10 5BH. £500 minimum deposit. Offer ends 30/06/2019