Hi Ian
I think that the winners SHOULD be given the same trophy for winning a 4 lap race or a 6 lap race, without taking anything away from riders who have won six lappers 30 years ago, they were not riding at the same speed as todays top riders. I would say that 4 laps on one of todays superbikes would be at least as hard as six laps on one of yesteryears machines? Personally I think that the race tactics will change alot, maybe faster engines may appear next year with them only needing to last 150 miles instead of 226? Of course one interesting point Could it see a return of more 500cc 2strokes? They will last four laps it was six they struggled with.
But back to your point about the Trophies, personally I feel that the winner of the Senior TT should be awarded the Senior TT Trophy wether it be over 4,5 6,7,8 laps, as have been in the past.
From a riders point of view I can assure you that it is not as easy as "a four lap dash", it may seem that way sat at the side of a road with a camera, sandwiches and flask watching riders go by now and then but for the riders it is hard work for 150.92miles.
I hope this is taken constructively as I know sometimes postings can seem personal rather than in the manner they are intended.
Cheers
Russ