Irwin confident Ducati could rule the roads at Dundrod

Irwin, who partners four-time BSB champion Shane Byrne in the Paul Bird Motorsport team, currently has no plans to compete on the roads in 2016, but with three rounds of the British championship under his belt he has admitted that he would still like to make an appearance at the World’s Fastest Road Race this August.

“I’ve heard a few people say that the Panigale isn’t a road racing bike, but to be honest I’m not so sure,” said Irwin.

“Maybe it’s not a TT bike, but now I’ve ridden it I definitely think the Ducati has a lot of characteristics that would suit fast, flowing road circuits like Dundrod. It has so much torque and it’s like a missile in every gear, so I think it would work well.”

The Carrickfergus rider, who made his roads debut at the Ulster Grand Prix in 2014, remains coy however when asked whether the Ducati will be making an appearance on the grid at Dundrod.

“We can’t say too much right now, but hopefully it happens. We might be there racing, but ultimately it’s Paul’s decision and if he wants the Ducati there, I’ll be there.”

Irwin will once again be an ambassador for Bike Week, which takes place from the 8th-13th August.

“I’m delighted to be an ambassador once again,” he said.