Michael Scott column
I’ve never seen it myself, but I am reliably informed that the TT Zero is not an electrifying race for spectators.
Will short-circuits be better for E-bikes?
The single-bike MotoE demo laps at this year’s GPs also fell flat. But there is a potential difference when there’s a grid-full of proper motorcycle maniacs riding the silent sportsters, rather than just one. So when it sparks up next year, will the fans be wired? Or will they just spark out with the tedium? Of course MotoE has much more current relevance than being an accumulator of weak puns, or generating low-voltage jokes. Ahem. For starters, it gives MotoGP points-scoring political correctness, which is a cynical but worthwhile way of buying time for us petrolheads to enjoy the sound and fury of internal combustion engines. At the same time, it can soften up spectators for what many see as an inevitable future; world championship racing without petrol.
‘It’s still hard to warm to this future of racing’
The MotoE Cup has been taking shape with increasing power. Before the end of the European season, the calendar was announced: races of between seven and 10 laps at Jerez, Le Mans, Sachsenring, Red Bull Ring and Misano. Well, seven or 10 laps as long as nobody crashes. With the very real danger of shocks and/ or fire should the circuitry become damaged, red flags will be at the ready. Marshals will need special protective clothing. Insulating Wellington boots will not be enough. But why should there be crashes? Just because Randy de Puniet is one of the confirmed riders. What are you trying to suggest?
Others on the definite list include Niccolo Canepa, last-ever 125 champion Nico Terol, displaced MotoGP rider Xavier Simeon and new European Moto2 champion Jesko Raffin. Riders expressing an interest range from veteran WSB champ Troy Corser to Britain’s own Bradley Smith.
An interesting gang. Ex-racers against some current hot-shoes, all on identical, hefty 260kg bikes with a respectable 120kw and masses of torque, the peak developed at zero rpm, on the start line.
The elements are in place, but it’s still hard to warm to these harbingers of a quieter and likely duller future racing. But now there’s no choice. We’re plugged in. So best be prepared to get lit up.