NW200: Hickman takes Superbike pole in final practice

Todd and Harrison to lead out Superstock and Supersport races

Peter Hickman will start on pole position as part of an 8TEN Racing one-two in the Superbike class following today's final qualifying session for this year's North West 200.

In a hotly-contested class, Hickman topped the standings with a late flying lap averaging 124.599mph to move ahead of teammate Davey Todd in second (124.069mph).

Meanwhile, Dean Harrison - who'd led the Superbike timings for much of this afternoon - had to settle for third quickest in the end (124.062mph).

Elsewhere - after just missing out on the top Superbike spot - Harrison did go on to claim pole in the Supersport class as his average of 117.727mph was just enough to overcome Richard Cooper (117.682mph).

Making up the Supersport top three was Todd on the Milenco by Padgett's Motorcyles Honda (117.117mph).

Along with securing two front-row positions, Todd himself also bagged pole position during today's session in the Superstock class.

His average pace of 123.19mph was enough to hold off Alastair Seeley who went second-quickest (122.949mph) and Hickman third (122.008mph) in what will be an all-BMW front row.

The first three races of this year's North West 200 are due to take place this evening (8 May) on the Triangle circuit.

Roads are due to close at 4.45pm before the opening four-lap Superbike race at around 5.30pm.

That will be followed by the first Supersport race - also over four laps - at approximately 6.30pm with the evening session to conclude with the four-lap Superstock race at around 7.15pm.

Roads will reopen no later than 9pm - timings remain subject to change.