Ian Hutchinson: 'Bingley Bullet' joins Milenco Padgetts Honda for NW200 in 2024

Team boss Clive Padgett and Ian Hutchinson with Milenco Padgetts Honda bikes

Three-time race winner Ian Hutchinson will compete for the Milenco Padgetts Honda team at this year's North West 200.

The 44-year-old English rider will return to road racing after recovering from a stroke.

Hutchinson will race in the Superbike, Superstock and Supersport classes at the North West 200 in May.

"I am a realist - it would be a miracle to come back and win," said Hutchinson on Tuesday.

Hutchinson has battled injury and illness since he last raced full-time with the Yorkshire-based Padgett's team during 2010.

His stunning 10-race winning run with Padgetts at that season's NW 200, Isle of Man TT, Ulster Grand Prix and Scarborough Gold Cup ended when he sustained a serious leg injury at Silverstone.

Hutchinson suffered a stroke last February and after numerous medical tests the Yorkshireman has been given a clean bill of health and his race licence is set to be renewed on 1 March.

"I was well prepared for 2023 with a lot of testing and training in Spain before I had the stroke," added Hutchinson, who has endured more than 40 operations.

"It was taken away from me again but I have done what I've always done and carried on training. I've done it for years and years.

"I did it when I had a frame on my leg after 2010 so that I can be ready to go when I need to be because I have never thought it was time to quit. Despite everything that has happened, I have always wanted to keep racing.

"I know where I am now and I know where I can be. Only I can see that."