What You Need to Know About the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy & Why It is so Dangerous

Photo of author

(Newswire.net — August 14, 2015) — If you are a serious motorcyclist, you have probably already heard of the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy, which is also commonly referred to as the Isle of Man TT. This is the most popular, as well as one of the most prestigious and most challenging, races for bikers in the world.

But the problem is that the Isle of Man TT is also considered the most dangerous race in the world as well. So even though it has been going on since 1907 and it is still really popular and still going strong, there are certain things that you should know about the race before you join in.

What is This Race All About?

First off, it is important to know what this race is and what it is all about. Basically, it happens once every year and it lasts for a total of six days. An island within the Irish Sea is filled with motorcyclists and motorcycle enthusiasts who flock there from all over the world for this one-of-a-kind event. As the oldest motorcycle race in history, there are a variety of people who come to participate and watch, from adrenaline junkies to adventurous bikers who want to have fun or test their limits.

There are a total of six events throughout the TT, and the race itself ends up closing down country roads so that the bikers can curve, dip, and zoom through a loop that is 37.5 miles long, usually at speeds of 130 mph on average. This translates to a lap in under 18 minutes.

Great for the Local Economy

The local economy really thrives off of this once-a-year deadly race, and even the kids throughout the island can enjoy some time off to check out the event. Every spring, the island is focused on welcoming the bikers and making them feel at home before they head out and speed through the race as they get to the main event.

Many People Have Been Killed Throughout the Years

Ever since the race was first started back in 1907, a total of over 240 people have been killed during the race because it is so dangerous. Even if you have years of experience riding a motorcycle in myriad conditions and on various terrains, and even if you purchase the highest quality gear and protective jackets from reputable motorcycle suppliers like motochanic.com, there is definitely still a lot of danger involved in participating in this race.

Why So Many People Choose to Participate

For those who love riding their motorcycles, the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy is the biggest and most challenging race that they will experience in their entire lives. Experienced racers from all over the world participate, knowing full well the dangers that they are putting themselves in, but they would rather give the event a try than not try at all. And spectators are definitely willing to watch the event from the sidelines to see who comes out on top.

The race happens every summer, so expect it to happen again in 2016 from May 28 through June 10.