Great Gatherings picture special from the Brighton Speed Trials

Big speeds and bigger crowds at Brighton

For one day every year Brighton’s Madeira Drive transforms into a magnet for motorsport as thousands roll into town for the Brighton National Speed Trials. This historic event features almost 250 vehicles, 75 of which are motorcycles, so MCN went along to experience what has become the longest-running motorsport meet in the world. The National Speed Trials was established in 1905 and although the format may have changed (it was originally a flying kilometre, then a standing 1/2 mile), the principle has remained the same – to cover a set distance in the shortest amount of time. Since 1993 it’s been run over a ¼ mile. “Many of these guys are pure enthusiasts,” says Paul Standing, President of the VMCC’s Sprint Section. “Whether it’s a vintage machine or a modern motorcycle, they’re always striving to make it go that little bit faster. We clocked one at over 183.3mph this morning (Stuart Donald’s turbocharged 2001 Suzuki GSX-R1000 K1) and bear in mind that’s on a closed road!” Impressive though the speeds are, it’s the time that really matters and that’s where the ability of the rider comes in. “It’s all about the first 64 feet,” says five-time trophy winner Craig Mallabone, “get that bit right and you’ll spank a good time in.” Craig describes his 1999 Hayabusa as ‘old school’ and gives all credit to builder Wayne Little. “I gave him a box of bits with a turbo kit in it and this is what came out,” smiles Craig. Craig went on to take top honours again this year with a 9.14 second run at 177.5mph.

‘They’re all striving to go that little bit faster’