What’s it all about: the Classic TT…
From August 19 to September 1, the Classic TT – presented by Bennetts – rumbles into action over on the iconic Isle of Man, offering fans and enthusiasts the chance to experience the sights and sounds of the TT throughout the ages.
What is it?
As the name suggests, the Classic TT is a festival of motorcycling, complementing the popular Isle of Man TT races. Usually held in August/ September it’s after the Isle of Man TT, which is usually held in May/June. It’s a chance to see motorcycles from yesteryear – normally found in private collections and museums – ridden around the 37.73 mile circuit by riders of today.
Who can you see there?
It’s more of a case of who isn’t attending. Everyone loves the Classic TT presented by Bennetts, a whole raft of present day riders to racing legends will be in attendance – along with celebrities who love two-wheels. With an extremely laid back atmosphere and fancy dress commonplace – and actively encouraged – there’s plenty of opportunity to meet the greats as they wander around the paddock.
What can you do there?
There’s plenty of action on track – and off. Roll back the years to the golden age of motorcycling and relive the sights, sounds and smells of the past.
Qualifying takes place from Monday August 21 until Friday, August 25 with the Bennetts Senior Classic TT Race and Lightweight Classic TT race taking place on Saturday, August 26 as well as the Lap of Honour for pre1975 vintage machines.
It’s not a coincidence that there’s no racing on the Sunday, as the Classic TT Party – held on Saturday, August 26 – has become a hallmark of the event. Featuring a live band covering some chart-topping songs of the period, it’s a chance to let your hair down and have some fun. Fancy dress is encouraged – this year’s theme is the 1950s – but get in quick, as tickets sell out fast.
Bennetts has 20 pairs of tickets for the party to give away to current policyholders – but be quick, they’ll be awarded to visitors to their stand on a first come, first serve basis.
There will be a book signing by John McGuinness too on the Bennetts stand on Saturday, following the release of his official autobiography, Built for Speed.
On Sunday, August 27, the Classic TT Heroes Dinner is hosted in the VIP Hospitality Suite.
It’s chance to meet a racing great as you enjoy your dinner and listen to hosted Q&As. Tickets can be bought on www.iomtt.com.
On Monday, August 28, it’s the turn of the Junior Classic TT race, Superbike Classic TT Race, MGP Newcomers race and the Lap of Honour for post-1975 retro bikes.
There’s also the huge Festival of Jurby on Sunday, August 27, which sees thousands of bike fans enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of hundreds of rare and exotic racing and touring bikes. Often attracting over 10,000 spectators, the festival event plays host to over 5000 bikes and historical vehicles – as well as being a magnet for racing stars from motorcycling history. There’s live music as well as retail and food stands.