Isle of Man TT - Purest Form of Motorsport Left

[Midnight Rambler]

Anyone who considers themselves a fan of motorsport, and hasn't ever seen the Isle of Man TT races, needs to correct that omission.

The TT, in existence for over 100 years, is probably the only motorsport that hasn't been neutered in the name of safety. Several classes of motorcycles - Superbike, Supersport, Supertstock, and even those with sidecars - are raced over a 37.7 mile, 264 turn course on the Isle (ie. one lap is 37.7 mi.) at breathtaking speeds. Think of the old Nurburgring on steroids ! The Superbikes sport in excess of 230HP and are capable of speeds well above 200MPH, with Michael Dunlop setting a new record this year with a lap average speed of over 133MPH. These riders let it all hang out and it is not uncommon to see bikes completely airborn over jumps, powersliding through corners, and even having the occasional "tank slapper".

I've been fortunate enough to cross many places off my racing "bucket list", incl. Spa, Monza, and Silverstone for F1, but the Isle of Man remains at the top of my list and I hope to make it one day soon.

In the meantime, for folks in the U.S., we are fortunate to have coverage on the Velocity TV channel (11PM EST), which replays ITV's daily coverage of the TT.

Highly recommended !