IOM TT: Fuel Sensor Problem Finishes Bruce Ansteys Superbike Hopes
Disappointment for TAS Suzuki as Anstey retires
A fuel sensor failure forced Bruce Anstey out of the Dainese Superbike TT after just seven miles, his TAS Suzuki team has confirmed.
The Kiwi was among the favourites to challenge for a win in the opening race of the 2009 Isle of Man TT on Monday, but he coasted to a halt at Ballacraine on lap one.
The team revealed a lambda sensor, which measures the amount of oxygen in the fuel, failed on the GSX-R1000, putting him out of the race.
Anstey said:
‘I’m obviously disappointed as I was feeling quite confident today. What happened is no one’s fault and something that cannot be legislated for.’
‘I did a couple of practice laps in the afternoon on my ‘stock GSX-R1000, so fingers crossed we can have a good day.’
Team Principal Philip Neill added:
‘The TT so far has been a roller-coaster for us: we are either on top on nowhere at the minute, and this place is all about overcoming the gremlins.’
‘We have put in a big effort, so now we deserve a bit of good fortune. I’m a bit disappointed after today as I felt we had a very good chance of success on the GSX-R1000 Superbike.’
‘Bruce was forced to retire, but we have tomorrow’s races to look forward too now and Bruce should be right up there challenging in both.’