I've been watching the tt this week. Went in 79 and 80 when Joey was just rising. Bittersweet this week, it needs to be slowed down. I currently have a CB 750K and about to have some refresher training before getting back on the road.
So Jason I've thought about this some more and read a few journalist views.
It is a fantastic spectacle and I had a great time there on two occasions (one on my bike). The whole race week is a festival of bikes and enjoying this lovely place accessed by ferry and a little behind the mainland in pace of life. I also went twice for the Manx International Rally.
What I find so sad is that it can't be had without death!
If you were spectating at Ago's leap for both sidecar events and saw two horrific crashes where 3 people died and one was critically injured could you honestly say 'let it continue like this' ? I have seen someone die in front of me at Brands Hatch - the great Jo Siffert and it's very sobering.
The father and son team who died on Friday will bring so much grief to their family. Can you imagine standing at the side of the road seeing those two bodies lifeless?
Something has to be done to keep the festival and the course but make it safer. I have ideas but I'm sure the 'powers that be' have already thought of them.
No sidecars - they are amazing to watch and I appreciate the terrific team-work but they have no place at 150mph through towns. They are unstable and when an accident occurs at least two people suffer.
Bikes should be more 'stock' and limited to about 500cc.
Chicanes at the fastest parts of the course - just like those that have been implemented at short circuits and Le mans.
I know this will come across as 'nanny state' but if measures aren't taken the TT will be finished. I'm old enough to remember revolts against crash helmets and seat belts (even HANS devices and HALO bars) but they save lives. It is not acceptable to take no action when speeds rise - the safety measures have to keep pace.
