(24-10-2009, 11:39 PM)superted Wrote:

(23-10-2009, 11:37 PM)Carole Wrote: There's no doubt the Paton is quick, but it is within current rules, just as the replica Manx Nortons and G50's are. Let,s not forget that Andy was also riding a Paton.
Having said that, I for one am delighted that he got his replica- great bloke and well deserved. Well done Andy!

If it was within the rules I wouldn't quibble, but it isn't even a replica of anything that was made in the classic era, whereas the "supermonos" are. It was conceived and built in the 80s

However, regardless of what I think there is absolutely no doubt that allowing it in for the past couple of years has pretty well killed the class, which is why it has had to be opened up to 750s. Note the number of 500 riders who opted to ride their 350s in the mixed class this year. Why do you suppose that was?

I am pleased for Andy too, having raced against him for many years, but he would be the first to admit that on his previous mount he wouldn't have had a sniff of the podium, and that was one of the "supermonos"

I would just like to point out that the Paton is in fact a replica of a bike that was first built and raced in 1968. The bikes are built in the original factory, from the original drawings and are more a true replica than many of the singles, as is the MV. Like it or not, what is happening is a repeat of what happened in the period, which is what classic racing is about. There is no doubt whatsoever that the bike is within the rules, ask the club or the scrutineers, or even one of the riders that raced one in the 1960's!

I'd like to mention again that Alan Oversby lapped faster on his single than he managed on the MV, and that Chris Palmer regularly split the Patons on a G50. It is the package of rider and machine which makes a fast lap. It's been gone over and over, so one more time won't hurt; this has always been the case in the classic Manx. The main reason the replica situation was so bad this year was the weather and the combined junior/senior cut out many of the regular front runners.

Dad, on his Royal Enfield Bullet, built in our shed at home and financed from my parents pockets, would have been set for a podium position if he had finished. He will be back next year and is confident of winning a replica if the bike makes it to the finish, under the current rules.

On a personal note, I'd like to congratulate Andy on his podium and replica - you couldn't meet a nicer man. I'll see you around the paddock next year!

David