In my view...

Dear CR I would like to air my views on the current classic racing scene. Original bikes should be racing modern replicas ridden by professionals, original bikes are raced for the enjoyment of the rider whereas modern replicas are built and raced for profit. Secondly, I hate and detest the noise restrictions imposed, my bikes are open meggas and will never be silenced to appease householders, so they will remain show bikes. To my way of thinking, the race tracks were there before houses, so the owners should have a clause written into their deeds that states they are unable to complain. If they do not agree, sell up and move. People living under airport flight paths have no option but to accept it. Finally, my other gripe, the TT races, too many riders get killed each year, the island should be renamed: The Isle of Manslaughter. I would like to see the engine capacities greatly reduced, bring back the 50, 125 and 250 classes then limit the senior to 350cc. Today’s bikes are too powerful, uncontrollable, unreliable and expensive, a rear tyre lasts for 75 miles (ridiculous). . Bob Mac’s Gilera did eight laps on the same tyres and you never saw him clambering all over the bike. Bob was a proper rider, unlik ke today’s high speed acrobats. Lastly, I note Michael Dunlop is s riding Bob’s Gilera in the Classic Parade lap, words fail me. Gordon Chatterton Email