After narrowly missing a podium spot in Monday’s Supersport race, Davie Tod bounced back to secure a podium finish in Supersport Race 2 at the Man TT Island, despite facing issues with his rear brake. By the race’s end, Tod was over 20 seconds behind Dean Harrison, who finished 15 seconds ahead, and more than 20 seconds behind winner Michael Dunlop.
Although Tod lost use of his rear brake from the first lap, he believed it didn’t significantly affect his final position. “It was a tough race, as expected,” Tod shared during a post-race TV interview. “I pushed hard from the start, trying to stay in the mix during the initial laps. Losing the rear brake early was far from ideal, but I managed to handle it. I don’t think the result would have been too different; we might have been a bit closer to Dean. I’m really thankful to have done my best and to have given the Padgett team a strong bike — it was a lot of fun.”
Tod also mentioned that he feels more comfortable with larger bikes at the TT, finding small, low-power supersport bikes physically more demanding. “Big bikes are actually easier,” he explained. “I’m in one position throughout the race, pushing myself hard and feeling the strain. I gave it my all today.”
Fan Take: Tod’s resilience in overcoming mechanical issues to clinch a podium spot is a testament to the grit and skill that make the Man TT races so captivating. This race highlights the physical and mental challenges riders face, promising even more thrilling competition and innovation in bike technology for the future of the sport.
