The Greatest Race In The World - The Isle of Man TT in all its Glory

The Isle of Man TT (Tourist Trophy) is a motorcycle racing event that takes place on the, you guessed it, The Isle of Man. For many, this is the pinnacle of road racing. Only production class motorcycles are permitted. This means we get to watch the worlds bravest riders race around these public roads (which are closed off for the event) on motorcycles that are built from machines that you and I can purchase from any dealership. Though the professionals are often in the spotlight, a large number these riders are privateers that will have to show up at their day job on Monday morning.

This prestigious race is run in a time-trial format. Don't let this fool you, there is plenty of battling, passing and nail biting racing that goes on. Races often involve side by side passing within inches from curbs, poles, cliffs and other considerable road hazards that would put a very unhappy stop to a rider and motorcycle travelling at 290 kilometres per hour.

The future of the TT is always in question due to safety concerns. Especially in regards to, "Mad Sunday" when any member of the public can ride the mountain section of the course. Between 1907 and 2009 (at the end of 2009 TT races period) there have been 237 deaths during official practices or races on the Snaefell Mountain Course (this number includes the riders killed during Manx Grand Prix and the Clubman TT races). It is not clear how many spectators have been injured or killed but there have been some. Anytime racers have to literally move their heads out the way, so as not to clip a lamp post as they are apexing a corner, we know it's a big deal.


Watch this gorgeous video that is bound to attract new fans to this mad but mesmerising event.