Racing veteran James Hillier will contest the 2025 TT aboard a Bournemouth Kawasaki ZX-6R in the Supersport races.
The announcement sees the popular rider reuniting with team owner Pete Extance after his previous team’s late withdrawal.
The 40-year-old enjoyed a successful nine-year stint with Bournemouth Kawasaki from 2010 to 2019, securing 14 podiums—including victory in the 2014 Lightweight TT—alongside top-three finishes in Superbike, Senior, and Superstock races.
The partnership was revived in 2024, with Hillier taking fourth and sixth in the Supersport races, lapping at 127.745mph.
Simple
“Pete was obviously one of the first people I contacted when I found myself without a ride,” said Hillier.
“It was very simple to arrange a deal for the Supersport class. My old crew chief, Phil Biggs, will again look after the ZX-6R, but I’m not afraid of work.
“If I had to work out the back of the van at the TT and sleep in it overnight, I’d do it—it’s simply a case of putting the big boy pants on and getting on with it!”
Pete Extance added: “We’re so pleased to return to the TT with James. Once we heard about his situation, we were only too happy to help.
“Luckily, we’re in a position with the 2024 bike to step in. We really feel this year we can step back on the podium after being so close last year.”
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