What's Been Going On

16 April 2017

Thanks very much to Piers Dowell at PDP for yet another set of helmets - my usual designed updated. Stroll on 2017 back with Arai. A big thank you to the team at thevisorshop.com for all their help too.

21 & 22 October 2016

Friday 21st and it is freezing. 5 degrees and it feels much colder. Out for first practice and the track is cold with people off every lap.

Second practice and its warmed up a bit and so have I! I've qualified 4 or 5 behind me who havent. Back of the grid but the only way is up.

First race got a decent start into the first corner but completely mobbed at the second corner. Having only been to the circuit once before really shows but I hand on in there and come home 14th.

Saturday and we are the first practice and first race. Much warmer today and the lap times come down although they are still of the general times of the Davy Wood Meeting last month. Had a great battle all race with a chap on a ZX10 great time and came home 12th. Great day had by all. Big thanks to Huddy, Jane and Davy. Adjourn to the beer tent to celebrate.

16 January 2016

The machine of torture otherwise known as a MultiGym has been installed. I have no excuse now! Let the training commence. Should be able to finalise the dates for this year soon.

click here to download Mid Antrim 150 Entry Form

click here to download Mid Antrim 150 Regulations

7 January 2016

After considerable effort by all those concerned, months of planning and behind the scenes work and fundraising the Mid Antrim 150 has a confirmed date of 1 and 2 April 2016.

26 October 2015

There were 18 races in the Supersport Cup championship and I came 23rd - I entered one race.

5 September 2015

After the disappointments of the Southern 100 and Ulster Grand Prix, it was great to get out on the bike. I decided to take the R6 which I had never raced at Kirkistown before. Qualifying went ok and I finally started to have a bit of fun.

Noel Patterson very kindly gave me a hand, as Huddy was racing as well. I qualified on the third row and was pleased to come home 6th in class. It felt good to race the bike instead of just riding it and I managed to hunt down a GSXR1000 in front of me. Small achievement relatively speaking but my lap times were the best ever.

12 August 2015

The Ulster Grand Prix meeting didnt really go as planned. Quite simply I hadnt had enough time on the bike and accordingly didnt ride to the level I am capable of. I qualified in group 3 out of 4 in the National race. Unfortunately I got a third round the first lap before the race was red flagged due to an accident. Get well soon Gavin.

The meeting was then abandoned on the Thursday.

Saturday was a long day. We eventually got called to the grid at 5.30pm when the heavens promptly opened after the day being dry. I didnt have wets on so didnt compete. I took some solace in the fact that although I hadnt raced since last year I was on the same pace as some people who had raced all year. Not good enough though

3 August 2015

All set up in the paddock and anticipating a wet practice session at the Ulster Grand Prix. Orange bib at the ready as I am a newcomer.

9 July 2015

The Southern 100 didnt really finish up as I had hoped. Monday practice was cancelled due to the weather and oil on the track. Tuesday was heading the same way and I decided practising on a wet oily road wasn’t for me. There were several others in the same position and we were therefore not allowed to race as we hadn’t completed enough laps.

1 February 2015

After having been told in no uncertain terms that road racing is facing a difficult future we decided to attend the Dungannon Club’s meeting regarding the future of the Bush Races. All present were positive and I sincerely hope that all the issues can be worked through and the races are held in 2016.

26 January 2015

Well the training for the new season has started. The shoulder that I hurt is complaining like made but I’m sure that will improve.

Doesn’t take long before you become unfit and I’m not going to be let down by not putting the effort in.

6 September 2014

Rocking up not having raced at Kirkistown for 12 months made me think I was on for a bit of a hiding to be honest. Not getting out at Dundrod meant I was itching to get out on the bike but did feel on the back foot a bit. Got absolutely thrashed in qualifying ending up at the back of the grid. There is a plus to this though as it can’t get much worse! After a horrendous start I worked my way through and caught the 3 or 4 people who had qualified in front of me.

The second race was a little better but pretty much the same results although I did get a better start.

The SV has a standard engine but aftermarket parts on it which makes it a good reliable bike for the roads but doesn’t really fit in either class on the track.

17 August 2014

Many of you will already know I wasn’t out at the Ulster Grand Prix. Thank you for all the messages but to be honest monsoon conditions and racing doesn’t equal fun for me.

As the day went on the conditions were very difficult for everyone racing and I was pleased I stuck by my original decision that the Dundrod is not a circuit I am prepared to learn in the wet.

The organisers were faced with terrible changeable conditions over all three days.

I am pleased for Russ Mountford, Dan Kneen and Trevor Reid for doing so well.

I hope Pierre Favre, Dan Kneen and everyone else that unfortunately found themselves on the tarmac makes a speedy and full recovery.

Tuesday 15 July 2014

My leg is feeling a bit peculiar so off to A & E. Nothing broken but its strapped up and needs a little TLC.

Thursday 10 July 2014

Race day. I wasn’t exactly looking forward to getting into my leathers for the first race. I had a nice lump and bruise on my leg. My shoulder had a pressure burn and bruise. I felt those when I did them but my elbow was a cracker and I hadn’t even felt that!

I climbed aboard the R6 and rode round to the start line. Got round the first corner this time, which is always a bonus and caned it down the straight. For the first 3 laps I picked rider after rider off getting quicker and quicker. I managed to pass two rider into Stadium corner and had the next one in my sights. Got down to Ballabeg and my clutch lever came back to the stop whilst changing down. Something had broken there was no tension on the lever. Right split decision time, do I pull in or bring her home for the “signature”. A long way to travel for two non finishes so I brought her home gently. I’m engineering sympathetic, so no stamping down my gearbox!

Not only did everyone I had previously passed overtake me, but I finished last. Ah well, a finish is a finish.

A big thank you to Huddy and Skel. Couldn't have done it without you both. In on one bike and straight out on the other - you were brill. A big thank you to Mervyn and Rachael Garrett as well.

Wednesday 9 July 2014

Right, game on! Race day or rather evening. I wasn’t last and I could see the lights which is always a bonus. I did actually get a fairly decent start and found a route through. Got to the first corner and two riders were virtually on the floor in front of me. I had been braking anyway and then slammed all on to get round them, when BANG. Hit from behind and projected into the two bikes on the floor. Not a hope of staying on. Gutted. Annoyed. You name it, not a happy bunny I can tell you. The three other riders were walking wounded but the race was red flagged and subsequently restarted. That was it for Wednesday. The SV fairing and gear change etc was damaged so she wouldn’t be going anywhere. Tony Duncan and the marshals were great – thanks as always.

Tuesday 8 July 2014

Again perfect conditions, so you just knew people were going to go faster. They duly did and I managed to go quicker too. Whilst I was still disappointed with my own performance, I tried to keep it in context. I hadn’t raced for three years. Somehow that kept going out the window when I felt I was getting passed left right and centre!

Monday 7 July 2014

The first practice session on the SV was in near perfect conditions. To say that (after three years almost to the day away from racing) I was off the pace was an understatement. I was that mobile chicane! Yes I knew where I was going but my corner speed had quite clearly been left in the van!

Second session on the R6 was a little better and I was dropping circa 5 seconds a lap each session.

I'd set out in the hope of qualifying with everything else being a bonus. By the end of Monday I had qualified albeit by the skin of my teeth.

25 April 2014

Trackday tomorrow to blow the cobwebs away and start getting into gear!

10 January 2014

The New Year brings added incentive to get back racing after only doing one meeting last year. I'm back training and this will be ramped up over the next few months as the season approaches. I have a few races that I hope to get to and a few penciled in so all being well I hope to see you soon.

14 September 2013
I went to Kirkistown with a completely open mind. It was the last race of the year there and as Id only done a track day and not raced for two years I didn’t expect it to be a close run race to be honest.
The week previously the meeting had been abandoned due to the weather but the Belfast and District Club really done well to re-arrange things for the following weekend. Not something many clubs would be willing to do or even attempt.
I felt really rusty on the warm up and in qualifying it started to rain so I did 3 laps and pulled in.
I had qualified 16^th and with another row behind me was quite pleased.
The first race I missed the start completely and was mobbed good style by the first corner. However once Id got going I picked them off one by one and came home 4^th in class and midfield overall.
The second race I was more on the ball and came home 5^th in class and 13^th overall.
All in all a good day and having been 2 years away felt pleased with the results. The wee bike was flying!

11 Sept 2013

Off to Kirkistown for my first race of the year. A little late I know but better late than never!

6 December 2012

There have been lots of changes this year. I hope to be in a position to revitalise the website and would like to thank all of you who have emailed me asking how things are going. Your support is much appreciated.

18 February 2011

For many years now we have been using W. L. Cooke Ltd “cookies” when we’ve needed some gauge plate, tools, bolts and anything else that you can think of that you need from time to time!

The most important thing you have to know is that W. L. Cooke Ltd. is a real establishment who sell from the premises not only to the trades but to the man off the street as well.

10 February 2011

I’d like to say a big thank you to Putoline Oils for their continued support in what are difficult times for everyone. I am sure they are inundated with requests and they have supported me for a long time and without help like this proper maintenance would be extremely expensive. Thank you.

15 January 2011

I recently won a calendar in a competition on irishroadracers.com. One of the nice things about the calendar is that all the profit from the calendars is donated to the Rob Vine Fund the Southern 100 Helicopter and MGP Helicopter Funds. The other nice thing is that the pictures seem to be chosen because they are good pictures as opposed to being the same old bland pictures of the same old people in the same old places. I would thoroughly recommend these calendars and for 2012 they are available from www.roadracingsupporters.com

2^nd August 2010

Starting to get ready for the Manx Grand Prix now. Huddy has changed certain aspects of the GS which we hope will be improvements.

17^th July 2010

Saturday brought the Jurby South Road Race. I hadn’t been to the Jurby Road for two years so was looking forward to it. I qualified fourth and fifth rows and had a great time. The coast road has been patched which I’m sure has made a bumpy road even bumpier but it’s a great circuit and I enjoyed the day very much. I managed 13^th on the R6 and a 13^th in the Open race. I qualified 11^th on the SV but unfortunately due to someones engine blow up in another class the SV’s race wasn’t run.

Glorious day and a celebratory pint in the Sulby Glen Hotel with the gang afterwards with Rosie putting on Sausage and Chip butties for us – what a star! It’s amazing how hungry you get after a day’s racing as we went for munchies after that as well!

A big thanks to Huddy and the Andys for the help - much appreciated.

15^th July 2010

Tuesday and Wednesday it chucked it down so as I had made a conscious decision not to take wets to the Southern I stayed put.

This meant I was out on the R6 and SV on the Thursday and after working my way through the field I came home 11^th and 12^th.

12^th July 2010

Getting back out on the bikes has been a highlight of the year to date. Qualifying tonight so out on the R1 R6 and SV. Great fun. The gearing wasn’t quite right on the SV so I qualified last on the grid. I qualified the R1 again which I was pleased about and got on the 4^th row on the R6.

Considering I hadn’t been on the bikes all year I was really pleased with my performance.

11^th July 2010

I‘m back! I’m sorry I’ve been absent for a few months. I could of course made a load of stuff up to fill the pages but all I’ve been doing is training and more training.

Got the funds together to put the entries in for the Southern 100 Jurby Road and Manx Grand Prix which pretty much are required all at the same time. Funds are in short supply this year.

1 May 2010

I had hoped to take my GSXR to the Post Classic Race of the Manx Grand Prix this year but things haven’t quite gone to plan this year, so far! The GSXR has been sat for a few years and so needs a bit of TLC and money spent on her. If she was just going to be ridden round Snetterton or somewhere it wouldn’t be so bad but the Manx is a different thing. She needs the engine checking and suspension refreshing. However all this takes time and money and although the new regs came out earlier than they have in the past from the Manx Club, there still isn’t enough time to get her ready and ride her before the entries close.

It’s been a hard decision in one way but not in another. The entries have also gone up for the Manx so when you add that into the equation as well, she will have to wait until (hopefully) next year.

21 April 2010

It seems today that we have lost yet another race meeting in Ireland. Athea has been cancelled and will hopefully be staged next year.

The MMCC have put the entry fees up again for the Manx Grand Prix they will cost £300 per race this year.

I'd like to say a big thank you to the people who have kindly bought a T Shirt. I have added another design today.

4 April 2010

The website may have been a bit quiet lately but that's because I have been busy behind the scenes working on the new shop page. Let me have any feedback! The designs are my own and hopefully you'll agree they're a bit of fun.

9 March 2010

The training is still going well and I'm still up the gym five days a week. Some mornings are hard I can tell you!

There's been a few more photos added and I'm currently working on some additions to the website which will hopefully be added by the end of next week.

It's sad but understandable that we have lost two races in Ireland this year. Times are hard and not only have sponsors been lost but companies are having to withdraw product support as well. At the end of the day they have to put their businesses first.

2 March 2010

I'm very pleased to announce that everyoneactive.com are supporting my training this year. Having been a member of various gyms I am impressed with how the Loughton centre is run. The level of equipment is very good and the pool (which is full size) is kept meticulously clean.

Everyoneactive offers a wide range of facilities for all age groups and levels of fitness. Children, Adult or Family memberships are available. With over 70 sites around the country, please look at the link www.everyoneactive.com to find your local centre and explore how you can get one of your daily 30 minutes of activity.

everyoneactive.com

29 January 2010

An extract from an email from TTXGP:-

"You may be disappointed to hear that there will be no TTXGP this year on the Isle of Man.

This does not affect any of the TTXGP regional events (TTXGP NORTH AMERICA/UK/ITALY ) or the TTXGP FINAL/UEM 2010.

TTXGP is committed to continuing to meet the challenges of running a world class race series. This raises the bar and benefits the EV industry as a whole, whilst taking into consideration economic pressures on teams and developing a high profile, yet sustainable model. We work hard to ensure that teams have as much opportunity to race and showcase their bikes at every race meeting, with a practice, qualifier and race built into every event weekend. In support of your promotional needs, extensive activities are planned to build your public profile and celebrate your achievements.

TTXGP teams can now focus energy on the TTXGP Championship builds, meeting a single criteria: 25 miles to the finish line on all our circuits. The championship venues have been chosen with speed, reputation and spectacle in mind. The good news is your team can now concentrate on designing bikes that are fast and furious around one, or all, of our twelve 25 mile road race circuits. With lower operating costs, OEM manufacturers, wider rider selections and better sponsorship support, the TTXGP series is an incredible platform from which to build a long term future in the next generation of motorsport.

The removal of the Isle of Man has also freed our resources and timetable to allow us to deliver new events and maximise your investment in TTXGP and zero carbon racing. Expect some news on this in due course.

TTXGP will continue to strive to push forward and support innovation. We believe we can prove that electric motorsport is the sustainable and exciting alternative, which will ensure that motorcycle racing will continue long into the future, meeting the demands of national regulations to restrict emissions and noise pollution. Over the last 18 months, we have created a momentum and a platform that delivers to you a tremendous opportunity to build a force for change as well as a great business."

18 January 2010

I thought it may be a good time to mention to you a company called Dynamic Precision who amongst other things produce my rearsets. They can in fact make pretty much anything you want but are better known for their quality rearsets.

Dynamic Rearsets are CNC machined from billet 6082 aluminium, aircraft specification, providing improved ground clearance and weight reduction to a standard production set. Reliability and long life of moving parts is achieved with the use of sealed bearings and bronzed rose joints.
Designed for track use only they are suitable for 'race' or 'road' shift gear changes with a smooth and precise action at all times. An inline pressure switch is required if the use of the brake light is to be maintained.

Perhaps most importantly after the initial purchase should your pride and joy make contact with the ground all component parts are available separately as spares. This is one if the main reasons I use them as its all well and good buying the initial set but I don't want to have to buy another set just because one small component is bent or broken.

Rearsets are made for the following models:-

CBR600RR

CBR1000R

ZX6

ZXR10R

Superduke 990

RC8

GSXR1000

GSXR750

GSXR600

RS125

Dynamic Precision are based at Unit 15, Sketchley Meadows, Sketchley Lane Ind Est, Hinckley, Leicestershire, LE10 3ES

Telephone 01455 251727

Dynamic's Website

14 January 2010

The Isle of Man TT Marshals Association website has had a revamp since I last had a look at it and is well worth a look.

For the TT or Manx Grand Prix around 1,200 marshals are signed up for duty. They are all volunteers who give their time freely, many cover all the practice sessions and races, and that totals some 45 hours each, a contribution that is much appreciated. It is a popular mis-conception that you have to be Manx or reside on the Isle of Man to be a marshal, but this is not the case. Anyone aged over 16 who is able bodied and wants to join, can apply to become a marshal.

The course is divided into 12 sectors, each covered by a Sector Marshal, several deputies and other marshals.

It would be impossible to run the races without the support of dedicated men and women and the Isle of Man TT Marshals Association Limited is always keen to recruit more marshals for the Isle of Man circuits.

If you are interested in becoming a marshal of the TT course please spend a minute looking at the website below:-

Isle of Man TT Mashals Association

11 January 2010

I have recently being working with Head Start who have compiled a sponsorship presentation for me. These have been sent out over the past few weeks and this work will continue in order to hopefully encourage participation in my racing for 2010. Along with the hundreds of other racers looking for assistance I am sure I will not find this an easy task. However the feedback I have been receiving is positive and I believe the work Head Start has undertaken reflects my positive and professional attitude.

"Head Start for your sponsorship presentations to provide you or your team with a marketing resource in your search for sponsorship. At Head Start we want to give you the opportunity by developing a low cost solution to creating professional looking marketing materials to help in securing commercial sponsorship. No matter the size of your budget required, sponsorship is an essential part of continuing your dream. "

Visit Head Start's Website

Email Head Start

7 January 2010

Road tax rates for motorcycles are set to increase this year, the British Motorcyclists Federation (BMF) have set up a petition on the No 10 website asking the Prime Minister to intervene and stop the increases.

Please sign at http://petitions.number10.gov.uk/motorcycleved/

The petition reason is outlined below:-

Given that the motorcycle industry is facing some of its darkest days with sales slumping by around 25-30%, it makes no sense for any government to increase taxes on motorcycle ownership as is proposed in the Pre-Budget Report. We petition the government to support the motorcycle industry as it has the car industry and freeze or lower Vehicle Excise Duty and provide some other stimulii for the industry and not to attack it further by increasing the cost of ownership for law-abiding citizens.

Please tell all your friends about this the deadline is the 17 March 2010.

7 January 2010

I was very surprised to learn that I finished 17^th in the Thundersport GB Streetfighter A 2009 Championship. I only did two rounds so all in all I am quite pleased.

6 January 2010

I'd like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a Happy and Successful New Year.

I continue to train five days a week at the gym and look forward to the start of the 2010 season. However, with five inches of snow outside it seems a long way away at the moment!

The Dakar is on TV at the moment so we avidly watch it every night. I take my hat off to them. I just don't know how they do it but wish them all the best of luck.

Just before Christmas we received the updated regulations for the Post Classic class at the Manx Grand Prix, the criteria of which have been widened.

20 December 2009

I've updated my Calendar for 2010. Obviously this is still provisional as it's still very early but at least it gives you an idea of my plans for next year.

17 December 2009

There's been a bit going on just recently. I've added a translation button to most pages on the site so that those of you who would prefer to keep in touch a little more easily can do so. There are 23 languages to choose from but if you'd like another added just email me.

You may also notice that a Sponsorship Page has also been added. This is I believe self explanatory as any help towards racing is greatly appreciated, large or small. However, if you'd like to discuss how you could get involved, drop me an email.

It's good to hear some positive news with Manx Telecom stepping up to sponsor the Post TT Races at the Billown circuit in the Isle of Man. Apparently there were genuine fears that the meeting would be scrapped and with the recent bad news about Donington Park being unusable and its holding company in administration, let's face it we could do with some good news!

Poor old Tom Wheatcroft will be turning in his grave. I hope that, during his final days, nobody showed him any photographs of the muddy building site which is now his beloved Donington Park.

So what's going to happen to Donington Park? There's no point in finishing its update to state-of-the-art F1 specification as there will be no F1 cars being raced round there at a British Grand Prix in the next few years! However, it's not fit for purpose as it stands at the present moment.

If we aren't careful we'll lose another circuit, if it hasn't gone beyond rescue already.

11th December 2009

The 2009 Review is on the Results Page. Ive been honest! No PR although I may have waffled! I put everything I have into my racing but over the next few months I will be looking for assistance and hope someone may want to get involved in supporting me. If you're interested, get in touch, any help is greatly appreciated.

20th November 2009

New photos added - big thanks to Russell Lee of Sport Pics

15 November 2009

This time of year is quiet for most racers and I'm no exception. Unless of course you're lucky enough to be off to Macau!

After a month off I'm back in the gym to keep up momentum.

I'm in the process if writing up my annual review and hope to have this posted shortly.

Some new photos have been ordered and I hope to have these on the site soon.

It constantly amazes me how many people look at this site! Thank you for taking the interest, the support is invaluable. Thank you.

14 October 2009

We are off to Rockingham this weekend. Im taking the R1 and hope to continue enjoying riding it after my fun at Frohburg.

John McGuiness was riding Reeve's sidecar round the paddock at Scarborough when most people had left. I asked him what he thought of it and rest assured he wont be giving up two wheels for three!

7^th October 2009

We now have a fortnights break before we head up to Rockingham

4^th October 2009

We had decided to do the Jurby four hour endurance at the Manx Grand Prix after deciding the teams. I was riding with Richard Bregazzi and Darran Creer and Huddy would ride with Jimmy Creer. We were using Richard's R6 and both he and Darran are similar height etc and both use race shift whereas I use road so we decided to leave it set for them. It was fine to ride just needed a lot of concentration to change gear.

We had a great laugh coming 19^th out of 40 and 13^th in the 600 class. There were 39 finishers and although a couple of people came off they remounted and carried on.

Huddy and Jimmy were out on the GSXR 750 in the Open class and came home 8^th in class.

26^th September 2009

We arrived at Frohburg on Friday morning and got setup and scrutineered.

We were a little surprised to learn we were out for first practice at 8.00am! So it was going to be an early start on the Saturday. As it turned out it was so early it was still dark over there and it was freezing. It suddenly lightened up at 7.45am and we went out shortly after, I had tears streaming down my face down the back straight due to the cold! I learnt later it was six degrees stuff that for a game of soldiers.

Frohburg was scorchio during the day and very cold immediately the sun set. The track is fast and rewarding. We got the R1 set up well and possibly the best I've ever had it. So much so that I finally went faster on that then I did on the R6 which is how it should be.

Dan put a camera on the R6 for the race so I hope to get that off him soon and get it loaded up for viewing.

We managed a bit of sightseeing in Germany taking in Colditz and a few other spots en route.

19^th September 2009

When Scarborough has the weather with it is a superb venue. It was warm and sunny which attracted over fifty thousand people on the Sunday.

I think it's fair to say Huddy and I were in at the deep end! Most if not all the field had been to all the rounds at the Oliver's Mount circuit and of course all the top road racers were there. After the newcomers laps Huddy decided it wasn't his sort of circuit. It is very tight and has an enclosed feel to it.

Being off the pace on the R6 I parked it up and concentrated on the SV. I decided it was a good bike to learn the place on and ended up having a good weekend.

24^th July 2009

Such a lot to do for the Manx. For the past two days we've been at the dyno setting up bikes. Its quite boring to be honest but we're getting there. I have a new SV650 for the Ultraweight which was a little bit of a last minute purchase. Originally i was looking for a classic two stroke for the new post classic class at the Manx. However whilst there are bikes out there I didn't find one that I'd like to buy hence the SV purchase. Obviously this is being converted to a race bike as i type this.

The GS I bought causes more issues as it's a one off and some of the pieces it has on it are quite hard to identify as they aren't original. We are currently trying to have sprockets made for it as these are probably going to be one offs! The tanks been hand built, the brakes (APs) completely overhauled , new bodywork, you name it. As for the engine well lets say that's virtually new as well! She's a cutie though!

19^th July 2009

The race was dry and as practice was untimed the grid was made up from championship positions which meant I was 15^th on the grid. I was having such a giggle I didn't care I just wanted to get back on the circuit. The race was only 6 laps and I wished it was 26. It went so quick it was over in a flash with me coming in 11^th. Well cool!

We promptly packed up and shot down to the boat at Dublin to Liverpool.

18^th July 2009

Ive wanted to do Kells for 18 months and was really looking forward to getting on circuit. It didn't disappoint and I came back in the a grin on my face. We didn't get it quite right with practice as in the first session I had wets on a dry track and then in the second we had dries on, on a wet track but hey the weather was changeable and I had a great time.

17^th July 2009

I don't mind mornings but getting the boat to Belfast at 6.30am is an unsociable time in any ones books especially when you've got to be there at 5.30am.

We arrived at the paddock later than we originally hoped (Dennis I could have killed you) and setup.

16^th July 2009

Huddy and Dan had done some work on the R1 and changed the gearing. I managed a 10^th on it and was very pleased with the progress made with it.

Overall considering a lack of practice and running repairs a good meeting and a bonus of coming home with the Janet Cook Trophy which this year is a lovely crystal vase.

15^th July 2009

In the 600 race I got going with every lap so after such a poor qualifying I was happy to finish 10^th.

14^th July 2009

Much brighter and warmer tonight. Unfortunately on the first lap of the 600 everything went wrong in as much as a rider came off and nearly took me and two others out. Not a great start! I then had to have a quick check by the doctor whilst the 600 qualifying carried on. I got two laps in and that was that as they say!

Made much more headway with the R1 and was very pleased to find I had actually qualified it this year.

13^th July 2009

The first night of practice of the Southern 100 was a bit grim weather wise. It absolutely chucked it down for what seemed ages and then brightened and dried up. We'd packed up and promptly unpacked again and got a couple of laps in on the R1.

25 June 2009

It’s a little like the calm before the storm for us because next month is a little busy. I’ve done a couple of trackdays at Rockingham and Snetterton but we are sneaking in a bit of a break and then July kicks off the roads for me. In the space of eleven days I’m racing at Snetterton, the Southern 100 and Kells. To say I’m looking forward to it is an understatement!

24 June 2009 - TTXGP Press Release

The FIM creates a new Series for Electric Motorcycles in 2010

Following the success of the TTXGP race held on the Isle of Man on June 12, the FIM (Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme) has decided to create a FIM Series for electric bikes in 2010. This new FIM Series will be run inside the Road Racing Grand Prix Commission, a great and innovative project led by Mr Azhar Hussain a UK Entrepreneur founder of the TTXGP. The FIM Series for electric bikes will provide an international platform for the development of electric bikes and the technology behind them to be tested in an exciting and challenging way. It aims at driving low carbon technological innovation forward, to demonstrate that clean-emission transport technologies have matured and can be fun, fast and exciting.

FIM President Vito Ippolito

“I am very happy to with this new Series, the future of the sport depends on our capacity as well as that of the manufacturers to innovate quickly. We are convinced that very shortly the motorcycle World Championships will be accessible to non-polluting engines as far as gas and sound emissions are concerned. Now that this important decision is taken, we have to work on rules and calendar to be ready to compete in 2010.”

TTXGP Founder Azhar Hussain

“With the success of the TTXGP on the Isle of Man, we have shown that zero carbon technology is ready to deliver the thrills and passion for both spectators and riders. In partnership with the FIM, we are taking the next step and proud to be pushing new frontiers in motorsports technology both on and off the track. Competition improves the breed, so we hope this new championship will come to be seen as a milestone event in bringing new transportation technology to the world beyond motorcycling. We invite the best and the brightest in the world to join the global championship and be with us at the dawn of the next generation of motorsports.”

About FIM

FIM (www.fim-live.com) , the world governing body for motorcycle sport, is an independent association formed by 98 National Federations throughout the world. It is recognised as the sole competent authority in motorcycle sport by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Among its 49 FIM World Championships its main events are MotoGP, Superbike, Endurance, Motocross, Supercross, Trial, Enduro and Speedway. FIM also deals with non-sporting matters such as leisure motorcycling, mobility, transport, road safety and public policy and the environment, FIM was the first International sporting Federation to enforce an Environmental Code in 1994. FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: ISABELLE LARIVIÈRE, PRESS COORDINATOR, isabelle.lariviere@fim.ch, TEL +41 22 950 95 68

About TTXGP

TTXGP (www.ttxgp.com) is the world’s first zero-carbon sanctioned motorsport event, which was held on the Isle of Man TT course on June 12, 2009 as part of the traditional TT race programme. 11 teams from six different countries, including the USA, India, Germany, Austria, UK and the Isle of Man took part in the race. TTXGP is developing global programme of zero carbon events that provide a platform for competition to drive technology and innovation into the next generation of motorsports.

5 June 2009

Another testday at Oulton and after changing the gearing the bike was going well. Its such a pity Oulton is so far from us as it's a great circuit.

1 June 2009.

Silverstone was the first outing for the R6 this year. Although we don't race at Silverstone it was a good chance to get on the bike and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

10 May 2009

Over the three races at Pembrey I came home 10^th twice and got a 9^th. This was to be the final meeting on the SuperDuke as I have decided it's not for me. I'll be riding the R6 and R1 going forward.

8 May 2009

It took me a while to get going at Pembrey. But by the end of the day I felt much happier than earlier in the morning. I'd had an opportunity to back off the suspension and felt much happier with how things were going.

Id holed my leathers in my off at Cadwell so they're going back to Dainese to get sorted out. A big thanks to Paddy at the D-Store Manchester. After sales - brilliant.

7 May 2009

We're off to Pembrey today as we are racing there at the weekend with Thundersport GB. The KTM is repaired and ready for battle!

4 May 2009

Rockingham today on the R1 again it tried hard to rain all day. The cars had been out on circuit yesterday which made it really slippery in places.

26 April 2009

Unfortunately contrary to previously reported news I won't be riding for Electric Motorsport at this year's TT. Practice times for me Carolynn Sells and six other riders who aren't entered in other TT classes haven't been allocated and as result we are unable to complete the mandatory number of laps.

25 April 2009

Both the R1 and the R6 went down to Al at Visual Impact today to have the new colour scheme completed. With no main sponsor this year the bikes have a different look

24 April 2009

It was good to get out on the R1 today at Snetterton; The afternoon was better than the morning which saw quite a few people come off in damp conditions.

I'm being looked after by Janet Pitcher at Knead a Massage after jarring myself in my off at Cadwell she is generally sorting me out which is great.

15 April 2009

Electric Motorsport Co Ltd of Oakland, USA has submitted a unique team into the first TTXGP at this year’s TT Races in the Isle of Man. Todd Kollin has brought together the fastest two ladies racing at the TT course in recent times Carolynn Sells and Marie Hodgson.

10 May 2009

8 May 2009

Id holed my leathers in my off at Cadwell so they're going back to Dainese to get sorted out. A big thanks to Paddy at the D-Store Manchester. After sales - brilliant.

7 May 2009

We're off to Pembrey today as we are racing there at the weekend with Thundersport GB. The KTM is repaired and ready for battle!

4 May 2009

Rockingham today on the R1 again it tried hard to rain all day. The cars had been out on circuit yesterday which made it really slippery in places.

26 April 2009

25 April 2009

Both the R1 and the R6 went down to Al at Visual Impact today to have the new colour scheme completed. With no main sponsor this year the bikes have a different look

24 April 2009

It was good to get out on the R1 today at Snetterton; The afternoon was better than the morning which saw quite a few people come off in damp conditions.

I'm being looked after by Janet Pitcher at Knead a Massage after jarring myself in my off at Cadwell she is generally sorting me out which is great.

10 May 2009

8 May 2009

Id holed my leathers in my off at Cadwell so they're going back to Dainese to get sorted out. A big thanks to Paddy at the D-Store Manchester. After sales - brilliant.

7 May 2009

We're off to Pembrey today as we are racing there at the weekend with Thundersport GB. The KTM is repaired and ready for battle!

4 May 2009

Rockingham today on the R1 again it tried hard to rain all day. The cars had been out on circuit yesterday which made it really slippery in places.

26 April 2009

25 April 2009

Both the R1 and the R6 went down to Al at Visual Impact today to have the new colour scheme completed. With no main sponsor this year the bikes have a different look

24 April 2009

It was good to get out on the R1 today at Snetterton; The afternoon was better than the morning which saw quite a few people come off in damp conditions.

I'm being looked after by Janet Pitcher at Knead a Massage after jarring myself in my off at Cadwell she is generally sorting me out which is great.

The TTXGP has been described as iconic and innovative and the American company which has been successfully selling electric motorbikes since 2001 is pleased to be competing at the event. Whilst competition will be strong the company feels they have a robust and competitive entry reflective of the quality brand they produce providing the cutting edge in electric motorcycle technology.

Electric Motorsport can be contacted by email at sales@electricmotorsport.com or by telephoning 001-510-839-9376

Carolynn and Marie’s progress can be followed via their respective websites

www.carolynnsells.com

www.mazracing.com

14 April 2009

I didn't get out at the weekend but ended up helping start the races on Sunday.

I am however out on Friday at Snetterton on the R1. Stroll on I cant wait.

10 April 2009

The trackday at Cadwell started really well. I'd picked up the pace quite early and the KTM was going well. Maybe a bit too well as flicking it through the Gooseneck down we went. Theres a bit of weight in the SuperDuke and she'd got up a head of steam as she went. I was ok except for a battered pride and sore bum. What a cock! The bike needed serious TLC and even after a day of working on it she's still not happy. Doesnt look as though I'll be out this weekend.

6 April 2009

Starting to get ready for Cadwell as over Easter we have a trackday, test day and then two race days. The KTM has had an AP master cylinder fitted to try and help me stop it. So Cadwell here we come!

1 April 2009

Training has commenced in earnest directed by my new personal trainer Chris. We are concentrating on a few key milestones for the racing season and he's killing me! I've found I enjoy boxing so will be giving that a bash literally!

29 March 2009

Donington was bright and breezy. We were hopeful that the Manx team would do well but frankly they were up against it. Most of the team hadn't even ridden there before so we were on the back foot especially against the English and Irish. Needless to say try as they might with some notable rides from Gav Hunt, Chris Palmer and Oatesy we got thrashed and came in second last.

24 March

We went up to Wigan and Frodsham yesterday to pick up the Growler from Maxton who are building a shock for it. They will also be getting the forks at the end of the week to set up for Huddy and generally check over and ensure they are in good working order.

Joyda Leathers are in Wigan. I have a pair of MW Leathers which I've had for a few years. They were made to measure but I came to the conclusion that he didn't measure me because they've never fitted! They went back to be altered three times and after that whilst they fitted I couldn't have raced in them. Ponced about in them but not raced. Having seen Joyda's work I've decided to drop them in and have them altered. There's no mucking about with them and no fancy shop. They tell you whether they can help you or not and when the job will be done. It's just a shame they do all this work and its behind the scenes. They do a great repair job as well as Huddy's have been done there and you'd never have guessed how bad they were when they went in.

Needless to say this is beginning to sound like a bit of a plug but fear not I pay full whack for any work but think that good workmanship etc should be appreciated and shouted about!

21 March

Ive finally added my calendar for the year. I'm sorry its taken a bit of time to pull together and as with everything none of this is cast in stone.

17 March 2009

Well to say that Mallory didn’t go to plan is a bit of an understatement really. It’s quite easy to beat yourself up about these things but at the end of the day the bike had a few problems and I didn’t ride as well as I’d hoped.

We’d gone to Silverstone GP for a track day on Monday and whilst it was windy it was dry and we’d had a good day and got in some valuable time on the bike. This left me pleased with how things had gone and I was looking forward to going to Mallory.

Qualifying on Friday was crap. First session the gear lever jammed so I couldn’t change gear and whilst I pulled in and freed it up one lap later it happened again so I pulled in. Next session the lampeter bung fell out. Huddy fixed all this for me but by this point everyone else had at least 40+ laps in compared to my 5. I was fed up!

Starting on the 7^th row wasn’t a problem but the foot peg falling off on the 2^nd lap was. That was it my race was over and I pulled in. By this point I was ready to torch the Superduke and if I’d been sent out to Afghanistan or some other war zone I could have sorted it all out in half an hour I can tell you all I needed was a gun.

Last race of the day I managed to finish and start getting a rhythm going and whilst I was well off the pace I was happy to finish and get going.

I finished the two races on Sunday and managed to knock four seconds off a lap but by then it was too little too late. Huddy did a few more mods to the bike for me. I came away fed up with myself and with blisters on my brake finger where I’d been hauling on the lever trying to get the thing stopped.

Stroll on Cadwell

My Good friend Reinhard - Frohburg 2008

1 March 2009

Ive updated the photos page with some photos very kindly sent to me by my friend Reinhard. Ive also booked Silverstone GP for a trackday. Stroll on the season opener. Two weeks to go!

21 February 2009

I was out for most of the day on the 1198S clocking up some miles. 135 in total which for round London isn't bad going.

I've had mixed views of Ducati for many years. Whilst I'm no expert, I've ridden a few now either on the road or track and some have been good fun and others have been crap.

When Ronnie at Hysides said Ducati haven't scrimped on this bike he meant it. Brakes and suspension awesome. Handling superb if you wanted to scratch round roundabouts all day and still have a big grin on your face, this is the bike for you.

Keep in mind I was running it in but even at these revvs you would still lose your licence without even noticing what you were doing. You'd get the notice in post or the fuzzy wuzzies would be pulling you over. Mind you they'd have a hard job cause all you can see in the mirrors are your elbows! Could be quite interesting when you think about it, cause if you really were having fun there's no way they could get in front of you to pull you over. Yep you'd definitely lose your licence.

It's a bit more rattley below 4 than the RC8 but for the limited revs I had she's got a nice motor that's lovely and responsive. Traction control was set at 4 which is middle of the road.

The only downside I can see so far is the tank size which is crap. 84 miles whilst running it in and then 10 miles on reserve is not good.

A few people have said they are over priced. But when you think about how much you'd pay for a Jap bike and then buy a shock, forks, steering damper, light wheels there wont be much in it . The only difference with the Ducati is youre buying it all up front, as opposed to spreading the cost.

17 February 2009

I had a superb day testing at a sunny Snetterton yesterday. However what was more of a concern was that we were noise tested. The testers were extremely strict and continued to test throughout the day. This is something I have never seen at a trackday, let alone Snetterton. Ive never been tested there as to the best of my knowledge they have never had a particular issue with noise unlike say Mallory or Donington. I was told that stricter noise governance procedures had been put in place following a recent court case. This obviously has to be Croft. Luckily we had the baffles for the Super Dukes but it looks as though the wind has changed quite literally.

10 February 2009

A big hello to all at irishroadracers.com a new site that has been introduced by genuine supporters of racing. I hope all goes well for them. Ive put a link on the links page for the new site which is growing day by day.

I had my first dry journey home in weeks today so Im hopeful to be out on the 1198S soon.

I just hope the weather sorts itself for Monday as its open pit lane at Snetterton.

Ive also finally joined Facebook after looking at it when it first started and never really bothering with it since. Well I'm on there now along with the billions of others!

6 February 2009

Needless to say I havent started running in the 1198 yet! What with the weather being the way its been Ive been out each day on my bike but Im not risking the Ducati.

We popped into the D Store at Manchester on Monday and I did a bit of shopping. Cheers to Paddy and Lisa for looking after me. If you like Dainese pop in, its a great shop with loads of stuff.

30 January 2009

A big thank you to Al of Visual Impact as I will be riding his KTM 990 this year in the Thundersport GB Streetfighter championship. Thanks very much Al.

28 January 2009

Off to the London Bike Show at Excel tomorrow. Thundersport GB asked if they could have the R6 on the stand for the show but the engine isnt in it at the moment. I offered to attach pedals to it but its not the same is it? Very nice of them to ask though. I can feel a bit of retail therapy coming on!

At the weekend we're up at the Aintree Dinner Dance to assist Greg Lewis pick up his Championship trophy. Well we're helping him get drunk actually, he can pick the trophy up on his own, he's an old hand at it now.

Then all being well I'm running in an 1198S for a good friend next week and as its one of the first in the country let alone on the road I'm hoping for good weather. Not that I mind riding in the rain its just such a shame for a brand new bike to get so dirty so quickly.

24 January 2009

The MMCC have announced some changes to the format of the Manx this year and relaxed some of the rider eligibility as well.

The 2009 MGP race programme sees two races scheduled for each of the three designated race days. Monday 31st August will feature the Newcomers race alongside the Post Classic event in the morning and the Junior and Lightweight Classic Race in the afternoon. Wednesday’s races are the Junior Manx Grand Prix and Senior Classic and the 2009 programme concludes on Friday 4th September with the Lightweight / Ultra Lightweight event in the morning and the Senior in the afternoon. In another new development riders can now enter two races in one day provided they are not on the same machine.

Initially the Post Classic regs seemed to open the doors for the likes of the Eddie Lawson reps etc but on closer review anyone thinking of getting one of these bikes will need to be mindful of the 31 December 1981 cut off date and the two valves per cylinder rule which will rule out a lot of machines that immediately spring to mind.

19 January 2009

The first trackday of the year has been booked for next month. I hope it warms up!

18 January 2009

I'm very pleased to announce a new sponsor in Shocktube who make quality neoprene protection for shocks. It's a great idea and I'm very grateful to Richard for the help.

Check out the website for more information:-

Shocktube

2 January 2009

Another year gone and crikey don't they go quick!

Like so many other racers with Christmas out of the way we now start looking forward to the season ahead. Work has started with the bikes so that all should be ready for testing to begin in February although I hope it warms up a bit by then! I've been asked to post what I have planned on the website so I'll be doing a tentative schedule for the year and will post it shortly.

Hope you all had a great time over the festive period.

Steve Norbury and Rick Long Fund