Modern Sidecar Racing

Modern Sidecar Racing - When people think of sidecars, most think of Indiana Jones or a Wallace and Gromit style motorcycle and sidecar. Sidecars have evolved into a modern and exciting form of motor racing and have American, British, European and World Championship status ranking in motor sport today.

A modern racing sidecar is similar to a three-wheeled Formula One car and a bobsled with all of the latest technology from the motorcycle, racing car and sports car racing research. A racing sidecar is capable of

speeds of up to 170 mph, depending upon the type of racecourse. The skill and coordination between the driver and the passenger, the competitiveness and speed of the race and the quality of the motorcycle and sidecar produce a breathtaking sight.

The sidecar racing season is held between early spring and late autumn with several races held across America, the UK and Europe. The World Championship includes America, Australia and South Africa. The European Series consists of twelve events throughout several European countries: Italy, Germany, France, Scandinavia and Spain. The Sidecar World Championship is now an established class, run alongside the World Super Bike Championship. There are also Domestic, National and Club Championships in the UK, America and South Africa, as well almost every country in Europe. All attract large spectator and media attendance.

During 2006, 120,000 people attended the British series of the World Super Bikes road races at Brands Hatch, UK, with TV audiences in excess of five million viewers. The Annual Isle of Man TT Races attract over 100,000 visitors from all over the world during a two-week period in May and June and include two sidecar race events. This year included an all-woman team who made a respectable finish of the TT course.