Rutter joins SMT Honda at Mallory
Added on Wednesday, July 15th, 2009 by Carole Nash Editor
Rutter joins SMT Honda at Mallory
Michael Rutter will race at Mallory Park this weekend after agreeing a one-race deal with SMT Honda.
The cash-strapped Honda team will replace regular rider James O’Halloran with Rutter this weekend at Mallory Park after agreeing a sponsorship deal with Wigan-based HMG Construction.
Rutter, who was dropped by NW200 Yamaha earlier in the season after failing to impress, stood in at the Worx Suzuki team for the last three rounds, claiming a best fifth place finish before being replaced by Tommy Hill.
It will be Rutter’s first time on Honda machinery since riding for the Stobart Honda team in 2006 and the veteran rider will be looking for a repeat of last year’s performance with NW200 Ducati, which saw him take victory on his home circuit.
“It was a real last minute deal for this weekend and I have seen Robin around the paddock but I don’t know the team, so it will be a new experience all round,” Rutter told the BSB website.
“The Honda has changed a lot since I last rode it, but that is the same with any bike at the start of a season as the development moves on so quickly. I am pleased to be back as Mallory Park is my home round; it is a short lap so you need to find the right setting but you get lots of laps in to try and get it right!”
