Isle of Man TT Privateer Champion Lee Johnston is optimistic he can continue his excellent progress on the Mountain Course this year.
The Northern Ireland rider, who is based in Hull, has made a big impression since he made his TT debut in 2012.
Johnston, who will ride Honda machines for East Coast Racing in the Superbike, Superstock and Senior TT races plus a Kawasaki ER6 in the Lightweight event, achieved his best result in the Lightweight race last year with a solid ninth place.
He also demonstrated his potential with a brilliant ride to 11th in the premier Senior race, lapping at 126.358mph.
The former British Superstock 600 champion took 12th in the Superstock race, 13th in the Superbike TT and 17th in the second Supersport race to cap an excellent week.
Johnston also excelled at the Ulster Grand Prix, finishing on the rostrum in the opening Supersport 600 race in third and returning to the podium in the Supertwin class.
At the weather-hit North West 200, Johnston claimed third place in the second Supersport race, which was cut short due to torrential rain.
“I still feel like a rookie around the Mountain Circuit. I got so few laps done in 2012 that 2013 really felt like I was still a newcomer,” he said.
“I was carrying a leg injury into the event also and it was touch and go as to whether or not I'd be able to ride at all.
“As it turned out I don't think it could have gone any better and I feel confident in my own ability now going back for my third year on the Island.
“Phil Reed at East Coast Construction has been brilliant to me with the support he is giving me and together I think we can look forward to a successful season,” added Johnston.
“I'm still learning my way around the Mountain Circuit and there is no pressure on me to get results, but I am quietly confident that we can make further progress up the leader board in 2014.”
