RE: Why I love the TT: PH Blog
Discussion
Ahonen said:
Fleegle said:
pak said:
Writer is Erin Baker as per note at top of article. Agree that all petrolheads should visit the TT at least once in their lives.
Why? Classic TT maybe.
Biker's Nemesis said:
Ahonen said:
Fleegle said:
pak said:
Writer is Erin Baker as per note at top of article. Agree that all petrolheads should visit the TT at least once in their lives.
Why? Classic TT maybe.
I take it that means I'm not a petrolhead
Came back yesterday from the TT
This year was my 32nd year at the TT,would have been 33 consecutive years but for the foot and mouth year plus 12 manx grand prix
I've competed,mechanic for teams,dogsbody for teams,Marshalled,spectated over those years
It is IMHO and at the risk of repeating myself the greatest motorcycle event in the world but that's what it is,an opinion,f
k all to do with being a petrolhead.I've been to most gp races including the must do ones,mugello,jerez etc,great events and would go again but I am always drawn back to road racing,again it's just opinions
Yeah the steam packet is expensive, £250 odd I think for peak time sailings but once there 4 days of racing,free to watch at the best places,what's the cost of a couple of weekend passes in a stand for moto gp for two days racing ?
I don't really get people on here who go on about what's right and wrong about types of biking,just get out there
I like touring Europe etc on bike either with mates or the Mrs
I like trials riding
I like track days but must admit my interest wains with each passing year
I like going out on Sunday for a thrash to a bike cafe or whatever,so yes I am that 53 yr old overweight biker in full leathers talking s
t with my mates who people seem to sneer at but ffs does it really matter.Maybe I'm just a thick simple northern monkey who can't get his head round it all
Went a bit off thread there
Fleegle said:
Biker's Nemesis said:
I've not been and can't say I'm fussed about going either, I like watching it on TV but can't see the attraction of going over there for the TT.
Classic TT maybe.
Same here. Absolutely no desire to go to the TT. I don't even watch it on TV. Why on earth would I want to stand in a field in the pouring rain having paid a ridiculous amount to the Steam Racket to get there?Classic TT maybe.
I take it that means I'm not a petrolhead
I do feel the mass media coverage is attracting a different kind of fan, I don't know exactly what's different but hearing marshals having problems with spectators taking selfies on closed roads sort of sums it up.
I've been to the TT many times, first year 1989 and through the 90's and 2000. This was pre-internet and before Sky even started covering it. You really had to research the event, it was covered in MCN and you could buy a Duke video in time for Christmas. It's almost as if everyone had to make such an effort to get there, things were respected a lot more. You could watch from locals gardens but always made a donation toward the Manx GP helicopter and were appreciative of their hospitality - I now see more grandstands with admission fees being charged.
Dare I say the event has become more commercialised, but then again, perhaps that's what it needed to survive.
Not to mention the increased speed limits and coned off areas on the mountain.
Having been to the Classic TT/Manx GP too, I have to say it's quite a different event, not only the racing but the atmosphere outside of the racing, admittedly it's quieter and I've seen more of the island in my first MGP visit compared to many TT because there was little else on.
I am going to the Southern 100 this year, I'll be interested in how I find this to the other events.
As a final note, for sheer road racing spectacle I do feel the NW200 is something else.
eta - Just read Scunnylads comments too - certainly agree!!
It is a good piece, well written indeed. I am biased toward road racing, as this is what I do in my spare time at the IOM, Oliver's Mount, Ulster GP etc etc. There is nothing like it at all. The atmosphere, the people, the personalities, it is something you really do not get anywhere else. I am no big name in the sport, I have a few sponsors, but do it for the hell of it, because I feel so unbelievably lucky to be able to go out and compete in what many people see as a crazy sport, for those who are short of a few brain cells. Yes there are risks, we know that, but how many people lose their lives mountaineering or other similar pursuits? Nobody forces us at gunpoint to get out and race, we do it because we have the imagination, desire and drive to do so. Life nowadays is wrapped in bubble wrap and red tape. Being able to do this as a sport is unique and something to be preserved and indeed cherished by petrolheads and non-petrolheads alike, as it is the most pure form of racing in my humble opinion.
I went for the first time this year and loved it. It's not just about the racing, it's the atmosphere, the roads, being around thousands of people with a similar passion. The whole island just seems to pull together to make it a great event, the people are so friendly and accommodating. We rented a house between 5 of us so we were warm and dry which helped. I wouldn't fancy camping it.
The ferry is expensive but I can't imagine they're all that busy the rest of the year so I don't blame them for making up for it during TT weeks. I suspect they have to hire in extra staff too to fit all the bike tie points and strap the bikes down etc.
The ferry is expensive but I can't imagine they're all that busy the rest of the year so I don't blame them for making up for it during TT weeks. I suspect they have to hire in extra staff too to fit all the bike tie points and strap the bikes down etc.
graham22 said:
Seeing both of your posts in BB, I'm quite surprised either of you haven't been in the past but again not surprised you have no plans in going now.
I do feel the mass media coverage is attracting a different kind of fan, I don't know exactly what's different but hearing marshals having problems with spectators taking selfies on closed roads sort of sums it up.
I've been to the TT many times, first year 1989 and through the 90's and 2000. This was pre-internet and before Sky even started covering it. You really had to research the event, it was covered in MCN and you could buy a Duke video in time for Christmas. It's almost as if everyone had to make such an effort to get there, things were respected a lot more. You could watch from locals gardens but always made a donation toward the Manx GP helicopter and were appreciative of their hospitality - I now see more grandstands with admission fees being charged.
Dare I say the event has become more commercialised, but then again, perhaps that's what it needed to survive.
Not to mention the increased speed limits and coned off areas on the mountain.
Having been to the Classic TT/Manx GP too, I have to say it's quite a different event, not only the racing but the atmosphere outside of the racing, admittedly it's quieter and I've seen more of the island in my first MGP visit compared to many TT because there was little else on.
I am going to the Southern 100 this year, I'll be interested in how I find this to the other events.
As a final note, for sheer road racing spectacle I do feel the NW200 is something else.
eta - Just read Scunnylads comments too - certainly agree!!
I think you will love the S100. It is known as The Friendly Races for a very good reason. It was the first ever road race I competed in and well, the rest is history as I am now hooked on the roads. Church Bends is a great viewing spot. I would also recommend the Ulster GP as a must view, it is a great circuit and seriously fast. One to watch for sure. I agree in the TT becoming possibly too commercial,but sadly I believe that this is what is needed in order for it to survive. I do feel the mass media coverage is attracting a different kind of fan, I don't know exactly what's different but hearing marshals having problems with spectators taking selfies on closed roads sort of sums it up.
I've been to the TT many times, first year 1989 and through the 90's and 2000. This was pre-internet and before Sky even started covering it. You really had to research the event, it was covered in MCN and you could buy a Duke video in time for Christmas. It's almost as if everyone had to make such an effort to get there, things were respected a lot more. You could watch from locals gardens but always made a donation toward the Manx GP helicopter and were appreciative of their hospitality - I now see more grandstands with admission fees being charged.
Dare I say the event has become more commercialised, but then again, perhaps that's what it needed to survive.
Not to mention the increased speed limits and coned off areas on the mountain.
Having been to the Classic TT/Manx GP too, I have to say it's quite a different event, not only the racing but the atmosphere outside of the racing, admittedly it's quieter and I've seen more of the island in my first MGP visit compared to many TT because there was little else on.
I am going to the Southern 100 this year, I'll be interested in how I find this to the other events.
As a final note, for sheer road racing spectacle I do feel the NW200 is something else.
eta - Just read Scunnylads comments too - certainly agree!!
Fleegle said:
Same here. Absolutely no desire to go to the TT. I don't even watch it on TV. Why on earth would I want to stand in a field in the pouring rain having paid a ridiculous amount to the Steam Racket to get there?
I take it that means I'm not a petrolhead
How about flying over for £80 return and bathing in the sunshine like I did last year!! £39 for 5 days all island public transport, steam trains, trams, horse trams, busses. Free bands and concerts ever nightI take it that means I'm not a petrolhead
It's a phenomenal place. They'd even welcome a miserable old b
d like you! 
Steam packet ferry are not cheap, but prices aren't "that" bad. Availability is the main problem
Fleegle said:
Calm down Kevin
It's all horses for courses. Even though I have no interest in it, I wouldn't like to see it banned.
I don't like speedway either
Ha it was just a few generalisations and not aimed at anybody really,post holiday bluesIt's all horses for courses. Even though I have no interest in it, I wouldn't like to see it banned.
I don't like speedway either
Just taking my mother to hospital in Grimsby,I'll pop down the front and post a couple of pics of the pier to cheer you up in case you are feeling homesick and to prove no hard feelings
poo at Paul's said:
Fleegle said:
Same here. Absolutely no desire to go to the TT. I don't even watch it on TV. Why on earth would I want to stand in a field in the pouring rain having paid a ridiculous amount to the Steam Racket to get there?
I take it that means I'm not a petrolhead
How about flying over for £80 return and bathing in the sunshine like I did last year!! £39 for 5 days all island public transport, steam trains, trams, horse trams, busses. Free bands and concerts ever nightI take it that means I'm not a petrolhead
It's a phenomenal place. They'd even welcome a miserable old b
d like you! Steam packet ferry are not cheap, but prices aren't "that" bad. Availability is the main problem
)As for being miserable, those that know me would agree with you
Fleegle said:
I could fly there even cheaper than what you are quoting, but the crux of it is I simply don't have any interest in it. I couldn't even tell you who won (although I could tell you who didn't )
My missus is / was the same. But when she saw her first practice session last year from a wall near Crosby hotel, she got rather excited. It's extraordinary, speed, noise, and just closeness of it all. As said, difficult to comprehend, it seems unreal in this day and age that it goes on, and yet, there it is, right in front of you. )I was persuaded to do Le Mans a couple of years when it clashed with the TT, took my old Porsche over and camped inside track. They were good trips, but not in the same league as the Island. Even when it is grey and a bit damp, everyone is happy and smiling! The vibe is quite strange in that respect.
My mate went this year for practice week and only saw one practice session instead of 4. But he said it was still a brilliant trip and he is itching to get back. Like I say, a special place, and worth a visit at least once. Don't forget to say hello to the fairies.
scunnylad said:
Fleegle said:
Calm down Kevin
It's all horses for courses. Even though I have no interest in it, I wouldn't like to see it banned.
I don't like speedway either
Ha it was just a few generalisations and not aimed at anybody really,post holiday bluesIt's all horses for courses. Even though I have no interest in it, I wouldn't like to see it banned.
I don't like speedway either
Just taking my mother to hospital in Grimsby,I'll pop down the front and post a couple of pics of the pier to cheer you up in case you are feeling homesick and to prove no hard feelings
robinh73 said:
I think you will love the S100. It is known as The Friendly Races for a very good reason. It was the first ever road race I competed in and well, the rest is history as I am now hooked on the roads. Church Bends is a great viewing spot. I would also recommend the Ulster GP as a must view, it is a great circuit and seriously fast. One to watch for sure. I agree in the TT becoming possibly too commercial,but sadly I believe that this is what is needed in order for it to survive.
Looking forward to it, have seen post-TT races there & been around the circuit during the Manx.Parents have done Ulster GP, it's another to ride to. We're in deepest Cornwall so quite a trek (but closer than NW200).
Prof Prolapse said:
I'd only go if I could get a great vantage point devoid of all but the staff serving me my five courses, and a st load of overpriced wine.
No matter where you watch at the TT and how good it is, you're always think perhaps someone else has a better spot! t load of overpriced wine.I went to the TT once.... it was shut.
As for this self indulgent wailing and gnashing of teeth over the dangers of riding.....
Get over yourself. If you've been riding long enough you'll probably have buried a friend or acquaintance. It's life. st happens.
Ride. Don't ride. Your choice. Why do people think it's ok to write this self pitying drivel??? I know someone who died in a plane crash... shall we all stop ever flying again?????
As for this self indulgent wailing and gnashing of teeth over the dangers of riding.....
Get over yourself. If you've been riding long enough you'll probably have buried a friend or acquaintance. It's life. s
t happens. Ride. Don't ride. Your choice. Why do people think it's ok to write this self pitying drivel??? I know someone who died in a plane crash... shall we all stop ever flying again?????
Edited by Steve Bass on Monday 12th June 16:22
MCBrowncoat said:
Yipper said:
Esceptico said:
Nice piece.
What baffles me about the TT is that it is pretty much ignored by the mainstream media, despite being such an amazing event, having such a long history, being British and with events generally dominated by Brits. I had to check the TT website to see who has won and the only article I saw in the newspaper was (typically) to report the death of a rider.
Yes, the TT is just about the most exciting sporting spectacle on Earth. Like Clarkson, I hate motorbikes, but watching some dude on what is basically a fancy bicycle doing ~200mph down a narrow country lane is incredible fun. It makes F1 and alike look sh*t. In an age of helf and sayftee mania, it is the last unsafe sporting event in the UK, perhaps Europe, perhaps the world. Someone always dies.What baffles me about the TT is that it is pretty much ignored by the mainstream media, despite being such an amazing event, having such a long history, being British and with events generally dominated by Brits. I had to check the TT website to see who has won and the only article I saw in the newspaper was (typically) to report the death of a rider.
Think the mainstream media largely ignore the IoM TT because a) it is "remote" and not on mainland Britain, b) <5% of people are interested in bikes, and c) it lacks the glitz and glamour of F1, Wimbledon, etc. TV execs and YT vloggers prefer a flash day-out.
FYI it's on ITV every year. Here's the Senior TT highlights:
https://www.itv.com/hub/isle-of-man-tt/1a7918a0125
Here are some highlight of the other Road Races:
Skerries 100 R.I.P Alan
https://youtu.be/sPci-6eops8
Armoy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P-1ns2lphIQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mvo_rouapq4
https://youtu.be/hQxU8iglqS4
https://youtu.be/OJbMIneCq1U
Tandragee 100
https://youtu.be/G08y7s0ahBU
https://youtu.be/zh7B2l8vddg
Mid Antrim 150
https://youtu.be/cVXJvgv-uoM
For me the NW200 is the best event from both sides of the fence the Ulster GP is just nuts but lots of intense pressure the Skerries is brilliant if it's dry & Armoy has a special kind of magic.
I feel this article is a little disingenuous toward motorcyclists who choose to continue on the road. We don't ride at 180mph, averaging 130 mph over 37.73 miles. Attempting to associate the risks of the TT versus the risks of road riding is ridiculous.
If someone chooses to not continue riding a motorcycle on the road then I'm not going to argue, question or make massive effort to persuade someone otherwise. However, I understand that some people love it, and consider the risks (such as they are, much smaller than a TT race) acceptable including myself.
I'm not as quick as I used to be, and years of road riding have given me a hard won sense of when someone will do something stupid. This sense is something I'm certain you simply cannot get as a car driver. That said, there is something about bikes, a feeling, a sense, an aura that I just don't get with anything else. My life would be very different without bikes and I struggle to imagine what it would be like.
It's also worth noting that of the few acquaintances I've known who have met their end on bikes have pretty much to a man been supremely talented on a bike, and also met their end when riding smaller capacity or less powerful machines.
This post has been a bit rambling, but I guess what I'm saying is don't give up on bikes yet... but also if you had a true love of bikes giving up would never be an option. And a C90 can be just as much of a deathtrap as an S1000RR.
If someone chooses to not continue riding a motorcycle on the road then I'm not going to argue, question or make massive effort to persuade someone otherwise. However, I understand that some people love it, and consider the risks (such as they are, much smaller than a TT race) acceptable including myself.
I'm not as quick as I used to be, and years of road riding have given me a hard won sense of when someone will do something stupid. This sense is something I'm certain you simply cannot get as a car driver. That said, there is something about bikes, a feeling, a sense, an aura that I just don't get with anything else. My life would be very different without bikes and I struggle to imagine what it would be like.
It's also worth noting that of the few acquaintances I've known who have met their end on bikes have pretty much to a man been supremely talented on a bike, and also met their end when riding smaller capacity or less powerful machines.
This post has been a bit rambling, but I guess what I'm saying is don't give up on bikes yet... but also if you had a true love of bikes giving up would never be an option. And a C90 can be just as much of a deathtrap as an S1000RR.
Edited by MarJay on Monday 12th June 20:45
Steve Bass said:
As for this self indulgent wailing and gnashing of teeth over the dangers of riding.....
Get over yourself. If you've been riding long enough you'll probably have buried a friend or acquaintance. It's life. st happens.
Ride. Don't ride. Your choice. Why do people think it's ok to write this self pitying drivel??? I know someone who died in a plane crash... shall we all stop ever flying
This. Get over yourself. If you've been riding long enough you'll probably have buried a friend or acquaintance. It's life. s
t happens. Ride. Don't ride. Your choice. Why do people think it's ok to write this self pitying drivel??? I know someone who died in a plane crash... shall we all stop ever flying
Painful reading the whole 'giving up anything dangerous because I'm a parent' thing.
What a bizarre place to ask yourself - do I want to ride these 'dangerous' things again?
I went this year for first time since 1991 (to a TT, also did the Manx in 1994 & 1997). The "riding" sucks big time mainly due to the incompetence and sheer quantity of other bikers. Comically bad - blocking junctions, point & squirting everywhere and overtakes that require the intervention of God.
Spectating is awesome in most respects - utterly gobsmacking speed / close to action / massive respect to rider's commitment etc but a bit samey after half an hour or so. Naughtily during BSB or club racing you wouldn't mind seeing a some fairing bashing or even a crash but this is last thing you want at the TT clearly (both for their health and your own) so it's just woosh and a bit of a wobble as the rider flies past.
You cannot however deny the enthusiasm of the 'average' fan. Chatted to lots and almost without exception they've already booked for next year. Unlike Kev it transpires they've generally never done a UK track day let alone a Euro track day, haven't explored Europe on bikes, done a MotoGP or 24h road trip, got their knee down, gone club racing, India on an Enfield, SE Asia on a scoot etc etc. It's their yearly bike holiday and that's that. Different strokes and all that. They are undeniably lovely folk when separated from their bike and served with a pint.
I quite enjoyed the tourist bit and the spectacle of a committed rider sticking it into blind bend at proper speed.
Might go back in another 26 years, might not.
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