The Ulster rider clocked the blistering time on his Hawk Racing Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, shaving 0.081s off the previous unofficial record set by Peter Hickman in 2019.
Dunlop's record-breaking lap came after a series of impressive performances in qualifying, with the 34-year-old also setting the fastest times in the Supersport and Supertwin sessions.
His achievement is even more remarkable considering the difficult conditions riders faced during the 2023 TT, with strong winds and rain disrupting many sessions.
Dunlop's record-breaking lap is a testament to his incredible skill and bravery, and it marks another milestone in his already glittering career.
The Northern Irishman is now the second most successful rider in TT history, with 25 wins to his name, just one shy of his legendary uncle Joey's record.
He is also the only rider to have won all six solo classes at the TT, and he is the current lap record holder in the Superbike, Supersport, Superstock, and Lightweight classes.
Dunlop's record-breaking lap has been met with widespread praise from the motorcycle racing community, with many riders and commentators describing it as an incredible achievement.
Peter Hickman, the official lap record holder at the TT, said: "What Michael has done is absolutely amazing. He's pushed the boundaries of what's possible around the Mountain Course, and he's done it in some very difficult conditions."
John McGuinness, the most experienced rider in TT history, said: "Michael is one of the best riders the TT has ever seen. He's fearless and he's always pushing the limit. His record-breaking lap is a testament to his incredible skill and bravery."
Dunlop himself was understandably proud of his achievement, saying: "It's an incredible feeling to have set the fastest ever lap around the Mountain Course. It's something I've always dreamt of doing, and it's a huge honour to have achieved it."
Dunlop's record-breaking lap is sure to go down in TT history as one of the greatest achievements ever seen at the event. It is a testament to his incredible skill and bravery, and it is a fitting tribute to his legendary uncle Joey.
In-depth analysis of Dunlop's record-breaking lap
Dunlop's record-breaking lap was a truly remarkable achievement, and it is worth taking a closer look at some of the key factors that contributed to his success.
The bike
Dunlop was riding a Hawk Racing Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, which is one of the most advanced and powerful Superbikes on the market. The bike is powered by a 1000cc four-cylinder engine that produces over 200 horsepower.
The Fireblade SP is also equipped with a number of high-performance features, including a lightweight frame, electronic suspension, and traction control.
The rider
Dunlop is one of the most experienced and talented riders in the world. He has been racing at the TT since 2008, and he has won 25 races, more than any other rider since 2007.
Dunlop is known for his aggressive riding style and his ability to push the limit. He is also very familiar with the Mountain Course, having raced it on numerous occasions.
The conditions
The conditions during the 2023 TT were challenging, with strong winds and rain disrupting many sessions. However, Dunlop managed to set his record-breaking lap in relatively calm conditions.
The wind direction was also favourable for Dunlop, with a tailwind blowing on the majority of the lap.
Overall, Dunlop's record-breaking lap was a truly remarkable achievement. It is a testament to his incredible skill, bravery, and experience.
The impact of Dunlop's record-breaking lap
Dunlop's record-breaking lap has had a significant impact on the motorcycle racing community. It has shown that it is possible to lap the Mountain Course at over 135mph, and it has set a new benchmark for other riders to aspire to.
Dunlop's achievement is also a source of great pride for the Isle of Man. The TT is one of the most iconic sporting events in the world, and Dunlop's record-breaking lap has further enhanced its reputation.
Dunlop's record-breaking lap is sure to inspire a new generation of riders to take on the Mountain Course. It is a testament to what is possible with hard.
Dunlop's record-breaking lap is sure to inspire a new generation of riders to take on the Mountain Course. It is a testament to what is possible with hard work, dedication, and talent.
Dunlop's achievement has also had a positive impact on the Isle of Man economy. The TT is a major tourist attraction, and Dunlop's success is likely to attract even more visitors to the island in the future.
In addition, Dunlop's record-breaking lap has helped to promote the Isle of Man as a center for motorcycle racing. The island is home to a number of world-class riders and teams, and Dunlop's success is a further vindication of the island's racing heritage.
Overall, Dunlop's record-breaking lap is a positive development for the motorcycle racing community and the Isle of Man. It is a testament to the incredible skill and bravery of the riders who compete at the TT, and it is sure to inspire future generations to take on the challenge of the Mountain Course.
Conclusion
Michael Dunlop's record-breaking lap at the 2023 Isle of Man TT is a truly remarkable achievement. It is a testament to his incredible skill, bravery, and experience.
Dunlop's achievement is also a source of great pride for the Isle of Man, and it is sure to inspire a new generation of riders to take on the Mountain Course.
Dunlop's record-breaking lap is a positive development for the motorcycle racing community and the Isle of Man. It is a reminder of what is possible with hard work, dedication, and talent.
Speed demons are always pushing the limits!
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