Just three weeks after breaking his wrist, Steve Mercer is back in action at this week’s North West 200, the Maidstone rider finally getting to make his debut around the 8.9-mile circuit.

The 30-year old had been due to take part in the 2011 meeting until he split with his then team on the eve of the races but a number of laser treatment sessions with renowned specialist Brian Simpson meant he was able to make it this time around.

Riding the Team Traction Control Suzuki, Mercer has bike nut Keith Flint to thank for his participation in the two Superbike races this weekend, The Prodigy front man owning and running both the team and the bike at the Northern Ireland meeting.

“It’s definitely been a case of ‘so far, so good’, said the amiable Mercer, speaking to bikesportnews.com after Thursday’s qualifying session. “Conditions on Tuesday meant I was able to get dialled into the circuit so it was a shame the weather was so poor on Thursday as I was hopeful of making some good strides forward. When you’re a newcomer, you just don’t know how slippy the white lines are so you have to take extra care.

“Having said that I’m happy with both the bike and my riding so I’m confident of improving come the two races on Saturday. I must admit, I was a bit unsure if I’d be able to make it after the crash at Snetterton at the end of April but a couple of sessions with Brian have been brilliant. I can still feel a bit of pain in the wrist but it isn’t far away from being 100%.

“I just want to come away from this weekend with two good, solid results under my belt and have some good preparation prior to the TT.”

Mercer’s season started in excellent fashion with sixth place at the Bol d’Or World Endurance Championship round and he’ll be riding for the same Penz13.com BMW team at the TT. However, he’s on the look out for a Supersport ride after the team he was due to ride for, Team T3 Racing, switched their support to another rider.