Classic racing has lost its roots

Dear CR It was interesting reading Malcwheeler’s comments regarding several present IOMTT and BSB racers winning/leading the latest Island Classic down under and the Classic (Manx)tt races. I can understand that modern racers love to race classic bikes and it raises the awareness of our sport, but they already have a series to showcase their talents. I believe classic racing has lost its roots and has now become a business. I watch and compete in classic racing for the sight, sound and smell of the old bikes and the past champions that raced these historic bikes. Amateur classic racers love to ride their own restored and tuned bikes in a race with similar minded company and I believe they are being pushed out by professionals. I was lucky to have had the chance to race at the Island Classic from 2007 to 2010 and the changes were already happening. The older period bikes raced by enthusiasts were being replaced by the more modern ‘classics’ ridden by hired guns. Reading the race reports, it appears to be an ongoing trend. I will be going to watch this year’s Classic TT and I hope the previous season’s ‘irregularities’ don’t dampen my enthusiasm for a sport I care dearly about. John Martin

Hello John, What an interesting letter (and one to provoke much debate, I’ll wager). I wonder if you, or any of CR’S readership see the new and the old living side-by-side or are we heading to a time where one will naturally supersede the other – if by nothing more than attrition. If we are to find that one aspect of our sport is to flag because of the other then what’s the answer to heading that off at the pass? I’d be fascinated to hear your thoughts and we will print the best letters on these pages in upcoming issues. Best wishes Tony