That's all for now folks, but we'll be back on Saturday morning for at least five races on the north coast.
All eyes will be on Alastair Seeley - can the 'Wee Wizard' equal or even better Robert Dunlop's tally of success?
BBCCopyright: BBC
Tonight's win takes the Carrickfergus man level on 13 with Joey Dunlop and Michael Rutter.
It's over
Bad news - there will be no further racing tonight, so just two of the three events were completed.
However, organisers plan to run the Superstock race again on Saturday.
Post update
Byrne 'blown away' by NW 200
British Superbike Championship star Shane 'Shakey' Byrne is enjoying a first visit to the North West 200 and says he is "blown away" by the speeds achieved by the competitors.
"Total respect to the boys but I will stick to short circuits. I once did a parade lap at the Isle of Man TT in 2003 and I frightened myself to death," added the 38-year-old.
Post update
A Road Closing Order requires racing to finish by 21:00, so if we get a restart it will likely be over a reduced distance.
Post update
If the race is restarted it will be without Bruce Anstey - the New Zealander has decided to pull out because of a low sun, which is causing difficulties for riders.
Post update
The red flag was for an incident involving a rider in the second wave - organisers hope to get the race restarted.
Post update
Press EyeCopyright: Press Eye
Ryan Farquhar celebrates finishing on the top step of the NW200 Supertwins podiumImage caption: Ryan Farquhar celebrates finishing on the top step of the NW200 Supertwins podium
Post update
There will be a restart, with the riders going back to the grid before racing the full distance of six laps.
Join the debate at #NorthWest200
Andrew Holding: Didn't Guy Martin get 2nd at Le Mans 24 hour race a couple of years ago going round and round? #boredgate #northwest200
The Superstock race is halted - we'll have more news soon
Go! Go! Go!
Alastair Seeley blasts into the lead in the Superstock race with Lee Johnston and Michael Dunlop making up the early front three.
Post update
Phillip McCallen
11-times TT winner
"I don't expect Guy Martin to be on the podium in this Superstock race. Something was bothering him today and I just don't think he will challenge in this race."
Post update
Press EyeCopyright: Press Eye
Alastair Seeley celebrates his Supersport victory on Thursday nightImage caption: Alastair Seeley celebrates his Supersport victory on Thursday night
Can Alastair make it a double as he prepares for the Supersport race?
Post update
Supertwins Race One - Final Positions
1. Ryan Farquhar
2. Jeremy McWilliams
3. Jamie Hamilton
4. Christain Elkin
5. Derek McGee
6. Michael Sweeney
Post update
Farquhar's fairytale win
Dungannon man Ryan Farquhar is thrilled as he clinches Supertwins victory, which vindicates his decision to come out of retirement.
Press EyeCopyright: Press Eye
Ryan Farquhar captures his fifth NW200 Supertwin winImage caption: Ryan Farquhar captures his fifth NW200 Supertwin win
"This has to be one of my best ever wins," adds the 39-year-old.
Chequered flag
Ryan Farquhar punches the air in triumph as he edges out KMR Kawasaki team-mate Jeremy McWilliams to clinch his fifth Supertwins victory at the North West 200.
It's another Northern Ireland 1-2-3 as Jamie Hamilton comes home in third place.
Post update
There are just four laps in the Supertwins race and at the halfway stage leader Ryan Farquhar is 1.5 seconds ahead of Jeremy McWilliams.
Post update
Ryan Farquhar is favourite to land a fifth career victory at the Northern Ireland meeting after leading the Supertwins qualifiers.
Farquhar's North West days appeared over after he retired in 2012 but he couldn't resist a return to action.
"I never even thought I'd be back on pole position at the North West 200," said the Dungannon man before the start of Thursday's race.
That's a record
Alastair Seeley set a new lap record of 117.077mph on his way to winning Thursday night's opener. The Tyco BMW rider finished 7.5 seconds clear of Michael Dunlop.
Press EyeCopyright: Press Eye
Alastair Seeley clinched his 13th North West 200 victory in Thursday's Supersport openerImage caption: Alastair Seeley clinched his 13th North West 200 victory in Thursday's Supersport opener
Lee Johnston ensured it was a Northern Ireland top-three. Bruce Anstey came in fourth followed by Dean Harrison and Conor Cummins.
Post update
Seeley enjoys Carrickfergus duel
Alastair Seeley is delighted to secure his 13th North West 200 win but praises his fellow Carrickfergus man Glenn Irwin who led early on before having to retire because of mechanical trouble.
"Glenn made me work for this. I just thought: 'Try and use your track knowledge and experience'," added the 35-year-old race winner.
Chequered flag
Alastair Seeley cruises to a Supersport victory and the 'Wee Wizard' moves on to 13 North West wins, just two behind the record held by Robert Dunlop.
Michael Dunlop comes in second with Lee Johnston completing the podium.
Post update
Steve Parrish
BBC motorcycling commentator
"Alastair Seeley has got so much time in hand now. Something like three seconds."
Post update
Alastair Seeley begins to pull clear going into the final lap, easing away from Michael Dunlop.
Retirement
There's disappointment for Glenn Irwin as his race ends because of a mechanical problem on lap two. The 25-year-old was in with a great chance of securing a first victory on his North West debut.
It's now a head-to-head between Alastair Seeley and Michael Dunlop.
Post update
Steve Parrish
BBC motorcycling commentator
"Glenn Irwin has really nailed this track."
Post update
Alastair Seeley may have made a poor start but he has quickly moved through the field and is battling for the lead on lap one with fellow Carrickfergus rider Glenn Irwin.
Michael Dunlop is close behind in third with Bruce Anstey fourth.
Post update
It's a Carrickfergus one-two late in the first lap of the opening Supersport race as favourite Alastair Seeley moves ahead of newcomer Glenn Irwin, who made a magnificent start.
Go! Go! Go!
The bikes thunder away from the start line and they get away cleanly in the six-lap Supersport race with Glenn Irwin storming to the front while pole-setter Alastair Seeley is down in seventh.
Seeley topped your vote for the Supersport winner with 37.3% followed by Michael Dunlop on 21.3% and his brother William on 11.8%.
Join the debate at #NorthWest200
PMcC: Got the radio on the office whilst I finish up cannot wait for this race to start! Watch out for the bearded Kiwi!!
Tanya Marie McTaggar: Taking a break from exams priorities are right!! Let's do this. #NW200 supporting #6 WilliamDunlop
William Dunlop will be racing in the opening Supersport race despite his crash in qualifying on Thursday afternoon.
"I didn't think I would be racing but the boys have put in so much work with the bikes, I thought I better give it a go," said the Ballymoney man.
"It feels a good bit better. It's just a little bit sore when I stick my left leg out on the bike."
Post update
New Zealand rider Bruce Anstey is looking very relaxed as he pulls a face behind Phillip McCallen who is live on BBC Northern Ireland's online coverage. Bruce will be aiming for his 11th career North West 200 win when the Supersport race starts shortly.
Post update
You've just 10 minutes to vote on the winner of tonight's Supersport race!
Post update
A bit of news to bring you - English rider James Cowton will not race tonight after suffering a suspected dislocated shoulder in a crash during Supertwins qualifying earlier today.
Join the debate at #NorthWest200
Antonio Maeso: @BBC_NI_Bikes A big greeting 4 all of u at the @northwest200 from Spain. Wishing to be there.
Peter Burch: @BBC_NI_Bikes @northwest200 Let the racing begin. First NW, so excited. Supporting @Jimbohillier37 + B'mouth Kwak.
Welcome back to our coverage of the North West 200. It promises to be a cracking evening of action with the opening three races of this year's meeting.
The weather is set fair on the north coast and we get under way at 18:00 BST with the Supersport race, followed by the Supertwins and Superstock classes.
Post update
That brings the action to an end for a few hours, but our live video and audio streams will be back at 17:45 BST for tonight's three races.
They are the Supersport, Supertwins and Supersport classes.
Final qualifying ends
The top six in the Superbikes
1. Alastair Seeley (BMW) 121.55mph
2. Lee Johnston (BMW) 120.43
3. John McGuinness (Honda) 120.00
4. Bruce Anstey (Honda) 119.68
5. William Dunlop (BMW) 119.68
6. Michael Rutter (BMW) 119.06
Red flag
The red flags are out again, with just 10 minutes left in the Superbike practice.
There will not be time for the bikes to get out again, so that is it until tonight's three races.
The red flag was not for a racing accident, but to allow the fire brigade access to attend an unrelated emergency.
Get Involved
bluebullitt: Dear @BBC_NI_Bikes Can you put a special button on the NW200 online coverage to hide it when my boss is coming? Thank you
The final practice session is for the Superbikes and, because of earlier hold-ups in the schedule, has been reduced to a 35-minute run.
That will be it until the serious racing gets under way tonight at 17:45 BST.
The first race is the Supersport and, before the start, we will reveal the result of our poll on who you think will take the chequered flag.
Good Sports
The top six times in Thursday's Supersport qualifying
1. Alastair Seeley (Suzuki) 116.36
2. Bruce Anstey (Honda) 116.07
3. William Dunlop (Yamaha) 115.50
4. Glenn Irwin (Kawasaki) 115.33
5. John McGuinness (Honda) 115.06
6. Gary Johnson (Yamaha) 114.87
That's incredible!
William Dunlop is gingerly getting on to his Tyco BMW for the Superbike session.
The 29-year-old, who won in this category at last year's North West, was injured in an accident in Supersport qualifying earlier today.
He said he might not be able to race tonight - but here he is already back on the track.
They're a tough bunch, these road racers.
"I want to try to put in a time for Saturday," he tells Larry Carter on the grid.
"Tonight might still be a bit of an ask. I don't feel too bad sitting here but we will see what happens.
"I haven't broken anything and that is the main thing.
"I want to get a feel for the bike because we have not really had a dry run on it."
Post update
Phillip McCallen
11-times TT winner
Alastair Seeley has stamped his authority on the Supersport class, but he is not going to get it easy in tonight's race.
"Bruce Anstey in second and Michael Dunlop on a brand new bike will be in second place on the grid.
"Glenn Irwin is going to be one of the best newcomers. He is getting the track right and will be in the hunt tonight."
Quick question
As practice gets near to a conclusion, how about casting a vote in our North West 200 poll.
The question is, which rider will win tonight's Supersport race?
Use the voting buttons, and if you want the terms and conditions, handily
Red flag
The Supersport session is temporarily halted after William Dunlop comes off his Tyco BMW bike at York Corner. The local rider limps away to get treatment. Question is, will he be fit for tonight's racing action?
"I'm not too bad and am lucky I did not do more damage," he tells Stephen Watson.
"I might have to rest for Saturday if I'm not up to racing tonight."
Post update
Phillip McCallen
11-times TT winner
"Guy Martin is under pressure - he's doing movies, is tipped to be on Top Gear and seems to be on every TV channel.
"I think he is frustrated because things have not been going his way.
"He is trying hard but he will have to settle, focus and get into the right frame of mind."
Talking Stocks
Top six in Thursday's Superstock qualifying session
1. Alastair Seeley (BMW) 120.19
2. Michael Dunlop (Yamaha) 119.86
3. Lee Johnston (BMW) 118.27
4. Martin Jessopp (BMW) 118.19
5. Horst Saiger (Kawasaki) 117.49
6. Dean Harrison (Yamaha) 117.09
Join the debate at #NorthWest200
TomBoyNI: @BBC_NI_Bikes #guymartin bored stiff at #nw200 'no interest!' Oh my, this could be the end for #guymartin at the northwest @BBCSPORTNI
Guy lets fly
Press EyeCopyright: Press Eye
England's Guy Martin is seeking his first win at the North West 200Image caption: England's Guy Martin is seeking his first win at the North West 200
Everyone is having a great time at the North West 200 apart from, it seems, colourful competitor Guy Martin.
The outspoken Lincolnshire racer has a rant on the BBC about the chicanes on the Triangle circuit, declaring himself "bored to the back teeth" during practice for the Superstocks.
Join the debate at #NorthWest200
Gail Jeffreys: @BBC_NI_Bikes @northwest200 Thank you to the lovely person who handed my purse in! Bikers are the best people you could meet!
Hillier confident
Hampshire's James Hillier is confident he can become the first English winner of a Supertwins race at the North West. He was fastest in Tuesday's practice and will be on the front row after another good showing on Thursday morning.
Asked if he can end Northern Ireland riders' domination of the Supertwins class, he said: "I hope so, I'll be trying that's for sure.
"There is no reason why we can't. Obviously Ryan (Farquhar) and Jeremy (McWilliams) will be there or thereabouts so it's about slipstreaming and planning your race. I have to use my head."
Get Involved
Joel Taggart
BBC Sport NI
Joel Taggart: After two sessions for Supertwins I make it front row will be - Farquhar, Hillier & Jessopp. Row 2 Hamilton, McWilliams & Dunlop @BBC_NI_Bikes
Join the debate at #NorthWest200
Richard Jones: I'm listening to you whilst working in Cardiff can you give a shout out to Aberdare local boy number 25 Mathew Rees
You can get in touch at @BBC_NI_Bikes or using the hashtag #NorthWest200 - or pop on to the BBC Sport NI Facebook page.
Join the debate at #NorthWest200
Barry Clarke: Watching from a very wet Heathrow, great coverage from the team.
It's Twins
Press EyeCopyright: Press Eye
Dungannon's Ryan Farquhar will be on pole position for Thursday's Supertwin raceImage caption: Dungannon's Ryan Farquhar will be on pole position for Thursday's Supertwin race
Final qualifying for the Supertwins
1. Ryan Farquhar 106.53mph
2. Martin Jessopp 105.93
3. James Hillier 105.74
4. Jeremy McWilliams 105.68
5. Jamie Hamilton 104.85
6. Glenn Irwin 104.79
All on Kawasaki machinery
Post update
Veteran racer, if he doesn't mind me calling him that, Ryan Farquhar is catching the eye in the Supertwins. He quit racing a few years ago but made an impressive comeback last year. Flying Ryan tops today's qualifying times with an average lap speed of 106.536mph.
"I am leaner and fitter and I certainly have the experience. I think I am back to where I left off in 2012," said the 39-year-old KMR Kawasaki team boss.
"It is a bit breezy out there, but everything is going good. I have done a lot of development work on the bike and it is running spot on."
So Dungannon man Farquhar is on pole for the Twins and looking for his fifth career win at the North West 200.
Get Involved
Join the debate at #NorthWest200
@BillyartistCopyright: @Billyartist
Billyartist: in my studio with the @northwest200 via @BBC_NI_Bikes working on #JoeyDunlop #oilpainting
Nice work, Billy
You can get in touch at #NorthWest200 or pop on to the BBC Sport NI Facebook page.
The fast show
Press EyeCopyright: Press Eye
The best ever lap speeds at the North WestImage caption: The best ever lap speeds at the North West
Back in action
Practice has resumed with the Supertwins out on the 8.9-mile circuit.
Among the familiar names in action are Jeremy McWilliams, Ryan Farquhar, Martin Jessopp and British Supersport title contender Glenn Irwin.
Join the debate at #NorthWest200
Stephen Watson
BBC Sport NI
We're live on the BBC sports website with all the practice from the @northwest200 !
You can get in touch at #NorthWest200 or pop on to the BBC Sport NI Facebook page.
Red flag
We're just 15 minutes into the practice session and the action has been halted by the marshals.
There has been an incident out on the course - happily the rider involved, James Cowton, is OK.
Get involved
Let us know who you think will win today's Supersport race by using the voting buttons. The Ts and Cs are here
The vote will start now and end just before the start of this evening's Supersport race.
Alastair Seeley is expected to be a leading contender given his recent record here over the last five years.
Who else will be up there challenging for the top place on the podium in the first race at the 2015 NW200?
Michael Dunlop is involved in all the races tonight and has five rides on Saturday.
Commentator Larry Carter asks: Could Michael be the first man to win more than five races at the North West 200?
It's sunny
Phillip McCallen
11-times TT winner
"The weather is much better and there was a sense of excitement walking into the paddock this morning.
"The sun is out and, according to the weather man, it is going to stay out so we should be in for a great day's racing."
Post update
Coverage of the practice sessions starts at 09:40 BST with live video streaming presented from the grid by Stephen Watson who will be with another North West 200 legend Phillip McCallen!
In 1992, McCallen won five races out of six at the North West 200.
The BBC Sport website will also have the live coverage from Radio Ulster medium wave, presented from a luxurious hut by Joel Taggart and Michael McNamee.
One to watch
Joel Taggart
BBC Sport NI
"Alastair Seeley is just three wins short of the all-time record of 15 career North-West wins held by the late Robert Dunlop.
"He has won five Superstock wins in his last eight races around here and at least one Supersport win in each of the last five years.
"But last year the Superbikes were dominated by the Dunlop brothers, William and Michael, who had one win each.
"Seeley will be looking make his mark there too."
Celebrations
"@BBC_NI_Bikes couldn't think of a better way to spend my birthday than watching the Northwest 200 live streaming"
Nikki
Starting soon
Good morning from the North West 200. Thankfully it is a good morning, much better than the wet and windy conditions which greeted the riders for the first practice session on Tuesday.
We have another practice session this morning which will finalise the grid positions for the races which start tonight.
Tyco BMW rider Alastair Seeley from Carrickfergus is assured of a front-row slot in the Supersport and Superbike classes thanks to his exploits on Tuesday. The 'Wee Wizard' also had the best time in first qualifying for the Superstock machines.
Live Reporting
Lyle Jackson
All times stated are UK
Get involved

BBCCopyright: BBC 
Press EyeCopyright: Press Eye Ryan Farquhar celebrates finishing on the top step of the NW200 Supertwins podiumImage caption: Ryan Farquhar celebrates finishing on the top step of the NW200 Supertwins podium 

Press EyeCopyright: Press Eye Alastair Seeley celebrates his Supersport victory on Thursday nightImage caption: Alastair Seeley celebrates his Supersport victory on Thursday night 
Press EyeCopyright: Press Eye Ryan Farquhar captures his fifth NW200 Supertwin winImage caption: Ryan Farquhar captures his fifth NW200 Supertwin win 
Press EyeCopyright: Press Eye Alastair Seeley clinched his 13th North West 200 victory in Thursday's Supersport openerImage caption: Alastair Seeley clinched his 13th North West 200 victory in Thursday's Supersport opener 




Press EyeCopyright: Press Eye England's Guy Martin is seeking his first win at the North West 200Image caption: England's Guy Martin is seeking his first win at the North West 200 

Press EyeCopyright: Press Eye Dungannon's Ryan Farquhar will be on pole position for Thursday's Supertwin raceImage caption: Dungannon's Ryan Farquhar will be on pole position for Thursday's Supertwin race 
@BillyartistCopyright: @Billyartist 
Press EyeCopyright: Press Eye The best ever lap speeds at the North WestImage caption: The best ever lap speeds at the North West 


Latest PostPost update
That's all for now folks, but we'll be back on Saturday morning for at least five races on the north coast.
All eyes will be on Alastair Seeley - can the 'Wee Wizard' equal or even better Robert Dunlop's tally of success?
Tonight's win takes the Carrickfergus man level on 13 with Joey Dunlop and Michael Rutter.
It's over
Bad news - there will be no further racing tonight, so just two of the three events were completed.
However, organisers plan to run the Superstock race again on Saturday.
Post update
Byrne 'blown away' by NW 200
British Superbike Championship star Shane 'Shakey' Byrne is enjoying a first visit to the North West 200 and says he is "blown away" by the speeds achieved by the competitors.
"Total respect to the boys but I will stick to short circuits. I once did a parade lap at the Isle of Man TT in 2003 and I frightened myself to death," added the 38-year-old.
Post update
A Road Closing Order requires racing to finish by 21:00, so if we get a restart it will likely be over a reduced distance.
Post update
If the race is restarted it will be without Bruce Anstey - the New Zealander has decided to pull out because of a low sun, which is causing difficulties for riders.
Post update
The red flag was for an incident involving a rider in the second wave - organisers hope to get the race restarted.
Post update
Post update
There will be a restart, with the riders going back to the grid before racing the full distance of six laps.
Join the debate at #NorthWest200
Andrew Holding: Didn't Guy Martin get 2nd at Le Mans 24 hour race a couple of years ago going round and round? #boredgate #northwest200
You can get in touch at #NW200 or pop on to the BBC Bikes Facebook page.
Red flag
The Superstock race is halted - we'll have more news soon
Go! Go! Go!
Alastair Seeley blasts into the lead in the Superstock race with Lee Johnston and Michael Dunlop making up the early front three.
Post update
Phillip McCallen
11-times TT winner
"I don't expect Guy Martin to be on the podium in this Superstock race. Something was bothering him today and I just don't think he will challenge in this race."
Post update
Can Alastair make it a double as he prepares for the Supersport race?
Post update
Supertwins Race One - Final Positions
1. Ryan Farquhar
2. Jeremy McWilliams
3. Jamie Hamilton
4. Christain Elkin
5. Derek McGee
6. Michael Sweeney
Post update
Farquhar's fairytale win
Dungannon man Ryan Farquhar is thrilled as he clinches Supertwins victory, which vindicates his decision to come out of retirement.
"This has to be one of my best ever wins," adds the 39-year-old.
Chequered flag
Ryan Farquhar punches the air in triumph as he edges out KMR Kawasaki team-mate Jeremy McWilliams to clinch his fifth Supertwins victory at the North West 200.
It's another Northern Ireland 1-2-3 as Jamie Hamilton comes home in third place.
Post update
There are just four laps in the Supertwins race and at the halfway stage leader Ryan Farquhar is 1.5 seconds ahead of Jeremy McWilliams.
Post update
Ryan Farquhar is favourite to land a fifth career victory at the Northern Ireland meeting after leading the Supertwins qualifiers.
Farquhar's North West days appeared over after he retired in 2012 but he couldn't resist a return to action.
"I never even thought I'd be back on pole position at the North West 200," said the Dungannon man before the start of Thursday's race.
That's a record
Alastair Seeley set a new lap record of 117.077mph on his way to winning Thursday night's opener. The Tyco BMW rider finished 7.5 seconds clear of Michael Dunlop.
Lee Johnston ensured it was a Northern Ireland top-three. Bruce Anstey came in fourth followed by Dean Harrison and Conor Cummins.
Post update
Seeley enjoys Carrickfergus duel
Alastair Seeley is delighted to secure his 13th North West 200 win but praises his fellow Carrickfergus man Glenn Irwin who led early on before having to retire because of mechanical trouble.
"Glenn made me work for this. I just thought: 'Try and use your track knowledge and experience'," added the 35-year-old race winner.
Chequered flag
Alastair Seeley cruises to a Supersport victory and the 'Wee Wizard' moves on to 13 North West wins, just two behind the record held by Robert Dunlop.
Michael Dunlop comes in second with Lee Johnston completing the podium.
Post update
Steve Parrish
BBC motorcycling commentator
"Alastair Seeley has got so much time in hand now. Something like three seconds."
Post update
Alastair Seeley begins to pull clear going into the final lap, easing away from Michael Dunlop.
Retirement
There's disappointment for Glenn Irwin as his race ends because of a mechanical problem on lap two. The 25-year-old was in with a great chance of securing a first victory on his North West debut.
It's now a head-to-head between Alastair Seeley and Michael Dunlop.
Post update
Steve Parrish
BBC motorcycling commentator
"Glenn Irwin has really nailed this track."
Post update
Alastair Seeley may have made a poor start but he has quickly moved through the field and is battling for the lead on lap one with fellow Carrickfergus rider Glenn Irwin.
Michael Dunlop is close behind in third with Bruce Anstey fourth.
Post update
It's a Carrickfergus one-two late in the first lap of the opening Supersport race as favourite Alastair Seeley moves ahead of newcomer Glenn Irwin, who made a magnificent start.
Go! Go! Go!
The bikes thunder away from the start line and they get away cleanly in the six-lap Supersport race with Glenn Irwin storming to the front while pole-setter Alastair Seeley is down in seventh.
Seeley topped your vote for the Supersport winner with 37.3% followed by Michael Dunlop on 21.3% and his brother William on 11.8%.
Join the debate at #NorthWest200
PMcC: Got the radio on the office whilst I finish up cannot wait for this race to start! Watch out for the bearded Kiwi!!
Tanya Marie McTaggar: Taking a break from exams priorities are right!! Let's do this. #NW200 supporting #6 WilliamDunlop
You can get in touch at #NorthWest200 or pop on to the BBC Bikes Facebook page
Post update
William Dunlop will be racing in the opening Supersport race despite his crash in qualifying on Thursday afternoon.
"I didn't think I would be racing but the boys have put in so much work with the bikes, I thought I better give it a go," said the Ballymoney man.
"It feels a good bit better. It's just a little bit sore when I stick my left leg out on the bike."
Post update
New Zealand rider Bruce Anstey is looking very relaxed as he pulls a face behind Phillip McCallen who is live on BBC Northern Ireland's online coverage. Bruce will be aiming for his 11th career North West 200 win when the Supersport race starts shortly.
Post update
You've just 10 minutes to vote on the winner of tonight's Supersport race!
Post update
A bit of news to bring you - English rider James Cowton will not race tonight after suffering a suspected dislocated shoulder in a crash during Supertwins qualifying earlier today.
Join the debate at #NorthWest200
Antonio Maeso: @BBC_NI_Bikes A big greeting 4 all of u at the @northwest200 from Spain. Wishing to be there.
Peter Burch: @BBC_NI_Bikes @northwest200 Let the racing begin. First NW, so excited. Supporting @Jimbohillier37 + B'mouth Kwak.
You can get in touch at #NorthWest200 or visit the BBC Bikes Facebook page.
Post update
Welcome back to our coverage of the North West 200. It promises to be a cracking evening of action with the opening three races of this year's meeting.
The weather is set fair on the north coast and we get under way at 18:00 BST with the Supersport race, followed by the Supertwins and Superstock classes.
Post update
That brings the action to an end for a few hours, but our live video and audio streams will be back at 17:45 BST for tonight's three races.
They are the Supersport, Supertwins and Supersport classes.
Final qualifying ends
The top six in the Superbikes
1. Alastair Seeley (BMW) 121.55mph
2. Lee Johnston (BMW) 120.43
3. John McGuinness (Honda) 120.00
4. Bruce Anstey (Honda) 119.68
5. William Dunlop (BMW) 119.68
6. Michael Rutter (BMW) 119.06
Red flag
The red flags are out again, with just 10 minutes left in the Superbike practice.
There will not be time for the bikes to get out again, so that is it until tonight's three races.
The red flag was not for a racing accident, but to allow the fire brigade access to attend an unrelated emergency.
Get Involved
bluebullitt: Dear @BBC_NI_Bikes Can you put a special button on the NW200 online coverage to hide it when my boss is coming? Thank you
You can get in touch at #NorthWest200 or visit the BBC Bikes Facebook page.
Almost over
The final practice session is for the Superbikes and, because of earlier hold-ups in the schedule, has been reduced to a 35-minute run.
That will be it until the serious racing gets under way tonight at 17:45 BST.
The first race is the Supersport and, before the start, we will reveal the result of our poll on who you think will take the chequered flag.
Good Sports
The top six times in Thursday's Supersport qualifying
1. Alastair Seeley (Suzuki) 116.36
2. Bruce Anstey (Honda) 116.07
3. William Dunlop (Yamaha) 115.50
4. Glenn Irwin (Kawasaki) 115.33
5. John McGuinness (Honda) 115.06
6. Gary Johnson (Yamaha) 114.87
That's incredible!
William Dunlop is gingerly getting on to his Tyco BMW for the Superbike session.
The 29-year-old, who won in this category at last year's North West, was injured in an accident in Supersport qualifying earlier today.
He said he might not be able to race tonight - but here he is already back on the track.
They're a tough bunch, these road racers.
"I want to try to put in a time for Saturday," he tells Larry Carter on the grid.
"Tonight might still be a bit of an ask. I don't feel too bad sitting here but we will see what happens.
"I haven't broken anything and that is the main thing.
"I want to get a feel for the bike because we have not really had a dry run on it."
Post update
Phillip McCallen
11-times TT winner
Alastair Seeley has stamped his authority on the Supersport class, but he is not going to get it easy in tonight's race.
"Bruce Anstey in second and Michael Dunlop on a brand new bike will be in second place on the grid.
"Glenn Irwin is going to be one of the best newcomers. He is getting the track right and will be in the hunt tonight."
Quick question
As practice gets near to a conclusion, how about casting a vote in our North West 200 poll.
The question is, which rider will win tonight's Supersport race?
Use the voting buttons, and if you want the terms and conditions, handily
Red flag
The Supersport session is temporarily halted after William Dunlop comes off his Tyco BMW bike at York Corner. The local rider limps away to get treatment. Question is, will he be fit for tonight's racing action?
"I'm not too bad and am lucky I did not do more damage," he tells Stephen Watson.
"I might have to rest for Saturday if I'm not up to racing tonight."
Post update
Phillip McCallen
11-times TT winner
"Guy Martin is under pressure - he's doing movies, is tipped to be on Top Gear and seems to be on every TV channel.
"I think he is frustrated because things have not been going his way.
"He is trying hard but he will have to settle, focus and get into the right frame of mind."
Talking Stocks
Top six in Thursday's Superstock qualifying session
1. Alastair Seeley (BMW) 120.19
2. Michael Dunlop (Yamaha) 119.86
3. Lee Johnston (BMW) 118.27
4. Martin Jessopp (BMW) 118.19
5. Horst Saiger (Kawasaki) 117.49
6. Dean Harrison (Yamaha) 117.09
Join the debate at #NorthWest200
TomBoyNI: @BBC_NI_Bikes #guymartin bored stiff at #nw200 'no interest!' Oh my, this could be the end for #guymartin at the northwest @BBCSPORTNI
Guy lets fly
Everyone is having a great time at the North West 200 apart from, it seems, colourful competitor Guy Martin.
The outspoken Lincolnshire racer has a rant on the BBC about the chicanes on the Triangle circuit, declaring himself "bored to the back teeth" during practice for the Superstocks.
Join the debate at #NorthWest200
Gail Jeffreys: @BBC_NI_Bikes @northwest200 Thank you to the lovely person who handed my purse in! Bikers are the best people you could meet!
Hillier confident
Hampshire's James Hillier is confident he can become the first English winner of a Supertwins race at the North West. He was fastest in Tuesday's practice and will be on the front row after another good showing on Thursday morning.
Asked if he can end Northern Ireland riders' domination of the Supertwins class, he said: "I hope so, I'll be trying that's for sure.
"There is no reason why we can't. Obviously Ryan (Farquhar) and Jeremy (McWilliams) will be there or thereabouts so it's about slipstreaming and planning your race. I have to use my head."
Get Involved
Joel Taggart
BBC Sport NI
Joel Taggart: After two sessions for Supertwins I make it front row will be - Farquhar, Hillier & Jessopp. Row 2 Hamilton, McWilliams & Dunlop @BBC_NI_Bikes
Join the debate at #NorthWest200
Richard Jones: I'm listening to you whilst working in Cardiff can you give a shout out to Aberdare local boy number 25 Mathew Rees
You can get in touch at @BBC_NI_Bikes or using the hashtag #NorthWest200 - or pop on to the BBC Sport NI Facebook page.
Join the debate at #NorthWest200
Barry Clarke: Watching from a very wet Heathrow, great coverage from the team.
It's Twins
Final qualifying for the Supertwins
1. Ryan Farquhar 106.53mph
2. Martin Jessopp 105.93
3. James Hillier 105.74
4. Jeremy McWilliams 105.68
5. Jamie Hamilton 104.85
6. Glenn Irwin 104.79
All on Kawasaki machinery
Post update
Veteran racer, if he doesn't mind me calling him that, Ryan Farquhar is catching the eye in the Supertwins. He quit racing a few years ago but made an impressive comeback last year. Flying Ryan tops today's qualifying times with an average lap speed of 106.536mph.
"I am leaner and fitter and I certainly have the experience. I think I am back to where I left off in 2012," said the 39-year-old KMR Kawasaki team boss.
"It is a bit breezy out there, but everything is going good. I have done a lot of development work on the bike and it is running spot on."
So Dungannon man Farquhar is on pole for the Twins and looking for his fifth career win at the North West 200.
Get Involved
Join the debate at #NorthWest200
Billyartist: in my studio with the @northwest200 via @BBC_NI_Bikes working on #JoeyDunlop #oilpainting
Nice work, Billy
You can get in touch at #NorthWest200 or pop on to the BBC Sport NI Facebook page.
The fast show
Back in action
Practice has resumed with the Supertwins out on the 8.9-mile circuit.
Among the familiar names in action are Jeremy McWilliams, Ryan Farquhar, Martin Jessopp and British Supersport title contender Glenn Irwin.
Join the debate at #NorthWest200
Stephen Watson
BBC Sport NI
We're live on the BBC sports website with all the practice from the @northwest200 !
You can get in touch at #NorthWest200 or pop on to the BBC Sport NI Facebook page.
Red flag
We're just 15 minutes into the practice session and the action has been halted by the marshals.
There has been an incident out on the course - happily the rider involved, James Cowton, is OK.
Get involved
Let us know who you think will win today's Supersport race by using the voting buttons. The Ts and Cs are here
The vote will start now and end just before the start of this evening's Supersport race.
Alastair Seeley is expected to be a leading contender given his recent record here over the last five years.
Who else will be up there challenging for the top place on the podium in the first race at the 2015 NW200?
Michael Dunlop is involved in all the races tonight and has five rides on Saturday.
Commentator Larry Carter asks: Could Michael be the first man to win more than five races at the North West 200?
It's sunny
Phillip McCallen
11-times TT winner
"The weather is much better and there was a sense of excitement walking into the paddock this morning.
"The sun is out and, according to the weather man, it is going to stay out so we should be in for a great day's racing."
Post update
Coverage of the practice sessions starts at 09:40 BST with live video streaming presented from the grid by Stephen Watson who will be with another North West 200 legend Phillip McCallen!
In 1992, McCallen won five races out of six at the North West 200.
The BBC Sport website will also have the live coverage from Radio Ulster medium wave, presented from a luxurious hut by Joel Taggart and Michael McNamee.
One to watch
Joel Taggart
BBC Sport NI
"Alastair Seeley is just three wins short of the all-time record of 15 career North-West wins held by the late Robert Dunlop.
"He has won five Superstock wins in his last eight races around here and at least one Supersport win in each of the last five years.
"But last year the Superbikes were dominated by the Dunlop brothers, William and Michael, who had one win each.
"Seeley will be looking make his mark there too."
Celebrations
"@BBC_NI_Bikes couldn't think of a better way to spend my birthday than watching the Northwest 200 live streaming"
Nikki
Starting soon
Good morning from the North West 200. Thankfully it is a good morning, much better than the wet and windy conditions which greeted the riders for the first practice session on Tuesday.
We have another practice session this morning which will finalise the grid positions for the races which start tonight.
Tyco BMW rider Alastair Seeley from Carrickfergus is assured of a front-row slot in the Supersport and Superbike classes thanks to his exploits on Tuesday. The 'Wee Wizard' also had the best time in first qualifying for the Superstock machines.