Well the rules certainly haven't changed ! just some riders bending the rules ! And some race organisers not enforcing this rule !
Ok we do have transponders and some claim we don't need to have the numbers clearly showing but yes we do because if (and it does still happen !) the transponder system fails then you're knackered for your times if the timekeeper can't see your number. I do believe they still use the manual system as backup.
As for the Moto GP numbers they have been terrible to read for sometime. At the end of the day if you look at it
this way could it be a safety issue ??? Let hear your comments on that !!
It clearly states in the Manx GP rules that the background and numbers supplied MUST be used! So I will continue to use them, after all they come with the entry fee paid and we do normally have the normal road/circuit racing backgrounds on prior to the change of colour for TT/Manx event.
The strutineers at Manx do pick up on this, so be warned !

And it won't be Ago in front of roads open ! LOL
Come on AGO !