Hi Roy,

I didn't think of the classic racers living on the IOM, that is a good point. However there could be an exception for riders who have no classic races in which to compete. It would not have to be a license as such, perhaps just a rule.

How about having a seperate class for people who own their bikes. That way if you're an enthusiast with the money to buy a Paton or a super short stroke Manx you don't get lumped in with the sponsored TT riders.

Or maybe replica time should be based on an average of the winner and the first 'clubman'.

How about any bike in the race can be purchased immediately after the race by anyone for the sum of £18,000 senior classic and £12,000 junior classic. This is used in several formulas of racing to keep costs down. £18,000 is a lot for a 500 goldie racer, but it's cheap for a Paton, therefore Patons would have to get cheaper, get out, or people using them would risk loosing a lot of money.

I used £18,000 as i think it's a generous amount to develop a quick bike, but it's not ridiculous and it's about half the current cost of a Paton and its also less than a top manx. The Weslake my dad did 105mph lap would cost about £12,000 to build, so £18,000 is more than fair.

The Paton (apparently) was for sale in the day. I doubt any ordinary folk could afford it, much like now.

By the way, to say that the times today should reflect the times of the MGP in the period is just wrong......otherwise my dad would have easily been capable of winning the 1972 senior MGP on a 500 goldstar with a standard frame, standard brakes, a 4 speed box and standard DBD engine....... I DOUBT IT! The course is faster now and the tyres and brake linings are better, these have made a far bigger difference than anything else.