'We'll see what happens' - Johnston on racing career

Johnston was involved in a serious crash at the North West 200 in 2023 [Getty Images]Motorcyclist Lee Johnston told the BBC Bikes Podcast that this season may prove to be the final chapter of his competitive career, adding he will only continue if he can still compete at the sharp end.

>The 35-year-old, who currently rides in the British Supersport Championship, is still rebuilding after the life-threatening crash he suffered at the North West 200 three years ago.

>Johnston says simply being able to ride again feels like a gift, but his competitive instinct remains strong.

>"I first promised myself that if I could ride the bike, I would simply be happy be that," he told BBC Bikes Podcast.

>"I'm just so content in the fact that I can do that and I think that's where my recent pace has come from, but I need to be fit enough to race motorbike bikes to try to win as that's where we need to be.

>"I don't want to sound arrogant, but winning is the thing you enjoy the most. If I can't be in contention, then we'll see what happens after that."

'They tried to give me a prosthetic shoulder'Johnston, who is working as a TV pundit at the Isle of Man TT, endured a long recovery after his NW200 crash.

>He recalls doctors warning him he might never lead a normal life again, let alone race.

>"They tried to give me a prosthetic shoulder," he continued.

>"If my job didn't rely on it, they probably would have. I didn't know it as I was out at the time but my luckily my wife was there to argue the case."

>Johnston also describes meeting the doctor who saved his life as a "surreal experience."

>"I met her and her family and it was special. My mum was there at the time as well, it was an unbelievable gift to give anyone but for my mum to meet I will be forever grateful."

>A recent return to the front at Oulton Park in a BSB race has given Johnston renewed belief.

>"That was the first race I'd led since the crash and a nice feeling. You can get all the pats on the back in the world but unless you can give yourself one it's different - and that gives you a little bit of self-belief and motivation."

>Still, Johnston is realistic: "If this is the last year, I'll be content.

>"I'm very, very lucky to even be here."