Superfast brothers Michael and William Dunlop gave bike fans a taste of the speeds they can expect at this year's Vauxhall International North West 200 in a blistering opening practice.

Ballymoney ace Michael (24) set the fastest Superbike lap speed and time, evoking memories of his late, great dad Robert and uncle Joey's heroics over the north coast circuit. Honda TT Legends rider Michael averaged 118.210mph and was a massive 7.6 seconds faster than nearest rival, Kiwi Bruce Anstey.

Brother William hit a mindblowing 197mph at one point while Michael promised more thrills to come in Thursday's second practice, race night and Saturday's main event, saying: "That'll do for starters."



Jim Gracey
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