The scenic north coast was bathed in warm sunshine as the first riders left the grid in Portstewart to officially herald the beginning of the first major road race of 2008 and the excellent weather prevaled throughout the duration of the evening.
John McGuinness, riding for the HM Plant Honda Team, was the rider who caught everyone's eye in the Superbike class as he secured provisional pole position for Saturday's big race with a fastest lap of 121.63mph.
Last year's hat-trick winner, Bruce Anstey from New Zealand, was next fastest on his Relentless TAS Suzuki, almost three seconds slower than McGuinness with an average speed for the 8.9-mile circuit at 120.36mph.
Hydrex Bike Animal Honda's Guy Martin was third, with Michael Rutter fourth on the official JHP NW200 Ducati.
Much of the fans' focus on Tuesday was centred on the NW200 Ducati Team in the paddock and if Ruter could manage a victory on Saturday he would be a hugely popular winner.
The best Northern Ireland rider in the Superbike class was McAdoo Racing's Ryan Farquhar from Dungannon, whose lap at 118.70mph has secured sixth position for Saturday's provisional grid.
Kiwi Anstey topped the Superstock times with a speed of 119.09mph from Alastair Seeley on the JMF Millsport Racing Yamaha (118.83mph) and TAS Suzuki new recruit, Cameron Donald (118.78mph).
Scot Kwith Amor was the top Supersport 600cc rider on his Wilson Craig Racing Honda, while McGuinness made a further statement of intent in the 250 class with the best time on his Padgetts Honda.
Michael Wilcox was the fastest 125cc rider, with Leo Aldersley the best 400cc competitor.
The final practice session takes place on Thursday evening, with roads scheduled to close at 5pm.

FIRST PRACTICE RESULTS