Discussing the Quarry Bends improvements under the "What year did this happen" heading got me thinking about all the course improvements that have taken place since I first rode (1975), and more importantly, whether these improvements have made the course safer.
Bray Hill is safer, since the descent and Ago's were made smoother, Union Mills is more dangerous since Snugborough was effectively removed as the entrance speed to Union Mills has risen dramatically.
Glen Helen is 50/50 since there is more grip, and you can use more of the road, but everyone goes faster.
13th milestone the same, as entrance speed is higher, but you can't afford to get it wrong.
Quarry Bends in my opinion is safer, but someone mentioned the higher speeds, so maybe that's 50/50 aswell.
Gail said she was glad that the Ginger Hall to Ramsey section hadn't changed, and I agree. proper TT course that bit.
White Gates out of Ramsey looks way faster nowadays, so same again, more speed OK until you get it wrong.
All the Mountain is much much faster today,and I think it is much safer, but as we can see, sadly they're still getting hurt up there.
It was an interesting point raised re. the course improvements and higher speeds. Anyone got the answer, apart from putting everyone back on rigid frames, and limit the age to between 34 and 35!!?