THE Honda TT Legends team failed to finish the Suzuka 8-hour event at the weekend due to a problem with their bike.

An issue with the endurance-specific pentagon rear wheel drive system forced the team to retire after two and a half hours.

The decision was made with the safety of the team's riders - John McGuinness, Keith Amor and Cameron Donald - in mind.

They each did a stint on the bike in soaring temperatures of more than 35 degrees.

Team boss Neil Tuxworth said: "We are obviously hugely disappointed not to have finished the race, but the safety of the riders is paramount and therefore we had to make the tough decision to retire.

"On the positive side, we have learnt a huge amount during our time here. The riders have done an excellent job - probably beyond our expectations.

"We always knew that this was going to be a difficult race and it has turned out that way, but we leave here with valuable knowledge that can only help us improve for future races."

17-times TT winner John McGuinness said: "It was a real honour to start the Suzuka 8-hour and the majority of my first stint went well. The problem with the endurance-specific rear wheel system kicked in with two laps to go and I had to push the bike back from the hairpin - I was definitely huffing and puffing when I got back!

"We got back out but unfortunately the issue continued so we had to stop. It's disappointing but we gave it our all and we have to be proud of that. The conditions here are incredibly tough.

"Our next stop for endurance is Le Mans so we just have to focus on that."

Two-times TT winner Cameron Donald said: "This was my first experience of racing world endurance and I got just over an hour out there on the bike. I can honestly say that I have never been that hot in my life. I was setting some really good lap times and feeling comfortable so it was a shame we had to pull out early.

"I've learnt a lot, the team has learnt a lot and we just have to come back stronger in Le Mans."

TT podium man Keith Amor said: "I'm devastated for everyone in the team. I was really enjoying myself out there and I'm obviously really disappointed that I had to come in, but if it is not safe to continue that's the right decision.

"Up until that point the Suzuka experience has been brilliant and I was just starting to get into the race.

"All we can do is learn from this and improve for Le Mans."

The team had qualified in the top 20. McGuinness and Amor will be riding for the team at the Ulster Grand Prix later this month.