Just thought I would add my 2p worth - I am in general agreement with Tomcat and Barry. What riles me is not the fact that we have Patons, Hondas etc comepting in the classic races but the 120mph + TT stars who are riding these machines. The debate on this thread has been brilliant and we have had some input from current classic racers, which is important - although I have never ridden the Manx so that's not the reason for my comments above.

I don't think that banning MVs, Patons etc can be the answer, otherwise we could end up on the slippery slope of 'what is a classic bike and what is not.' That said, and as has been pointed out already by many people, some of the 'classic' bikes lining up on Saturday evening practice may have been built in the last few years.

To my knowledge the rule already exists that if you win an MGP, you can't compete in the Manx again (unless in a classic race.) I would support a similar rule excluding TT riders, but would be wary of suggesting an arbitrary exclusion limit (e.g. past 2 years, past 3 years etc.) There are people better qualified than me to do that.

If you're good enough to ride the TT, then ride it. Don't ride the Manx. Obviously there is no classic race at the TT, and the point has been made that the Senior Classic is the premier classic event in the UK, if not the world. In my opinion that should be tough for the TT boys.

Clearly machine specification is critical, but then so is the rider. If Joe Bloggs' best ever lap in the Senior Classic is 95mph and someone gives him a Paton for the fortnight, I don't believe he would be firing out 108mph laps every time. Multis are exciting for spectators and, of course, have to pit as well. I for one enjoy seeing them out there but worry that in 5 years time the Senior Classic will be a who's who of Superbike riders on Patons, MVs etc uness something is done.

What I sense from this thread and speaking to people generally is that the issue roughly boils down to whether you consider the Manx to be an amateur event, or a chance to get the best classic bike and the best classic rider. I believe it to be the former. Perhaps the answer is a classic race at the TT?!

In answer to Will's question:

If Ryan Farquar bought a Paton and a 350 Honda with his own money would people still object to him being there?

Yes.