Mervyn Whyte says the entries for the 125 class are insufficient

The 125cc class has been dropped from the race programme for the 2011 North West 200 because of a decline in the number of entries over recent years.

As a result, next year's event will consist of a five races, each held over six laps of the circuit.

There will be two Superbike events, two Supersport races and a Superstock race.

The date for the two-wheel showpiece has been confirmed as Saturday 21 May, with practice sessions being held on Tuesday 17 May and Thursday 19 May.

The organising Coleraine Club plan to continue with daytime practice on Thursday, with roads closing at 0930 BST and re-opening by 1500 BST at the latest.

As in previous years, Tuesday's practice will remain an evening session with roads closed from 1700 BST to 2130 BST.

Traditionally the feature North West 200 Superbike race was the only race held over six laps but now each race will be run over that distance.

North West 200 Race Director Mervyn Whyte explained the decision to end the 125cc class.

"It has proved difficult to attract a large number of top quality competitors to enter the 125cc race and regrettably we had to remove it from our racing programme.

"In 2010 only 19 riders took part in the 125, with 16 competitors crossing the finish line.

"However having increased the number of laps in four of our existing races we believe the 2011 North West 200 will offer a thrilling and exciting programme for both diehard fans and new visitors and will provide the ultimate challenge for competitors."

Among the starters already confirmed for the 2011 race are official Honda pair John McGuinness and Keith Amor, plus Relentless Suzuki by TAS Racing duo Guy Martin and Cameron Donald.

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