CB750 Silver Cafe Bike The Silver Manx

Posted on June 28, 2024September 29, 2024 by Steve Carpenter

28 Jun

I have built so many Motorcycles over the years and its hard to keep track as to what I have turned out over these 24 years here in Southern California, but every now and again I will be reminded of a unique machine that I created and today is no different.

I created this machines from a bunch of parts that I had in my garage and I purchased about 15 bikes up in the desert 20 years ago and sored them in my garage, back garden and next doors garden, as the deal came up and I had to jump on it, so always had a few platform frames to use for future creations and this is just one of them that I came across on an old CD that I had discovered in the drawer of an old cupboard.

So, this was a conglomerate of parts ranginging from 1971 to 1976 and I just went ahead and built this as a fun homage to the Isle of man machines that I grew up watching and reading about as a teenager, this was something I wanted to be like my Black bike but a different color and exhaust etc, so with a head full of crazy ideas and a box full of old parts, I began my creation.

I had a New Old stock Paul Dunstall Fuel tank, in fact I did have 4 of them to be honest, I had already used one on my Black machine and I used one for the greenday bike and I wanted to use one on this creation to keep in that guise that had started to become popular a few years later.

I wanted to have this machine in a style very reminiscent of the Nortons of the day, hence me designing the Honda logo in a Norton font, but I was happy how this looked and so glad that I went with that idea, some 20 years later I am still selling that logo design, over 500 of them I have sold in numerous colors.

This bike had a lot of mixed up years parts and I knew this would be a fun machines to ride, it was big and bulky and fitted the Motor well as that inline four powerhouse always looked great hanging out of the frame, this was a Muscle style Motorcycle that would turn heads where ever it stood.

A fun bike to ride and plenty of zip, I did fit a lightened fly wheel to this so the motor would spin over faster and this would really pull hard through the gears as i used a set of old Kerker headers that had been sat in the rafters for a long time and I had picked up at a swap meet in Pomona many moons ago, I mated that to an old Action four megaphone muffler and kicked it up 20 degree’s for a more aggressive look and boy did it growl when you got on it.

This sat well on a set of 18 inch Vintage Borrani rims of which a I had 4 of and wanted to use them up, so re-laced to Honda Hubs and threw on some Bridgestone tires and these filled the chassis out nicely. I rebuilt and painted the Caliper and drilled the front rotor and painted middle and used stainless Hoses to make sure this machine would stop quickly when you needed to.

I also ditched the stock factory footpegs as I had Ace Bars on and wanted my feet further back, and chose some Tarozzi rear sets to give me the leg room that I needed for that leaning forward stance.

I used a Kawasaki H2 Race seat that I actually made a mold from my first one and that was then upholstered in Black Naugahyde and snaps fitted for that vintage look and, I could keep all my documents underneath that.

I also wanted to use some Vintage parts up I had and I had a few sets of Original Koni rear shocks, so cleaned them up and fitted them to the rear to give it that road race look of the day, and also polished and drilled the rear brake cover to dissipate heat and get rid of brake dust, you can see the rear brake stabilizer that I machined out of 6061 and suits the bike well.

A really fun bike that I enjoyed creating, I took some old original 1974 gauges apart and revamped them with new custom faces, painted the needles, re-chromed the lowers and tops.

This was a tall bike and even I was tippy toe and im 5’11 but I liked it that way as you got to respect the bike for what it was, it was not for the faint hearted that’s for sure and gave that late 60’s look even though its a 70’s bike.

Motor Cycle News from back home in the UK sent a journalist over to come and see the bike and test ride it and they did a smashing write up on what I do out here, to me that was so cool as I have read that Newspaper since 1973 and to have made it in there a few times was just a head spinning time for myself.

A professional stunt rider too, he did not hang about on that bike and was quite amazed at the powerband compared to most of the Modern machines he usually rides and was smiling all the time whilst perched high upon the pegs.

It was quite a responsive engine and soon got up to the magic ton with no problems at all and way more there but we kept running out of road lol, we both raced up and down Miraloma road where people like Robbie Gordon would thrash his Nascar rides or Baja trucks by my shop, so only fitting that we gave it some beans here too.

All in all I was super stoked at the way the bike turned out and glad to have found some old photos of it to show on the website.

I have no idea where it is now or who owns it but just another machine in my style that I really loved to create and enjoy, it may not be your cup of tea but you may appreciate the time and effort creating motorcycles just out of parts laying about?

Thanks for reading.

Merry Christmas Everyone, here’s a blog on the Millyard RC374 Honda six replica

Posted on December 25, 2022 by Steve Carpenter

25 Dec

Wishing everybody a very Merry Christmas and thank you so much for all your orders.

Wanted to have a long blog with a few videos at the bottom of here to show you how skilled this fella is, I am sure you will enjoy the video’s over the Christmas period?

When rocket scientist and motorcycle madman Allen Millyard went to the motorcycle races at Castle Combe, he met none other than Guy Martin. Martin brought Millyard back to his pit area and showed him his replica Honda RC174. This was the bike that Mike Hailwood dominated the 350 cc class of the 1967 Grand Prix season on with its tiny inline-six engine. Millyard loved it, and Martin suggested that he should build his own RC174 replica, so he did.

In what seems like an act of sacrilege, Millyard started with a pair of Yamaha FZR250RR four-cylinder engines. The Yamaha engine was a better starting point than anything comparable from Honda because the Yamaha’s heads and blocks are symmetrical, making them much easier to add extra cylinders to than some of his previous efforts. He started with the heads, cutting the two outer cylinders off of one and cutting the other in half at the center. Already he could see he would have to rework the oil and coolant routing inside the engine. He’d end up using three separate coolant galleries inside the final engine to keep everything adequately cool.

Millyard repeated the process with the cam covers, creating one to cover all six cylinders. The tricky bit was that these cam covers are magnesium, which is extremely flammable and difficult to extinguish, as he demonstrates (stopping for a cupcake on the way, of course). He cut strips of magnesium out of leftover parts to use as a filler wire, ensuring that the filler would be exactly the same material he was welding on the extended cam cover.

All of the pistons were good, so Millyard chose the six best to go into his engine. All 24 valves were in great shape. He only had five good cylinder liners, though, since one of the original engines had rusted inside. In true Millyard fashion, he simply fabricated his own. Speaking of fabrication, Millyard converted the Yamaha’s original wet clutch to a dry clutch, as on the Honda RC174. He created or heavily modified all the parts to do this, along with a new oil filler. Millyard even made a stainless steel toe cover to prevent him from getting sucked into the completely exposed clutch.

One video in the series shows Millyard extending the crankshaft and crankcase to match the heads and putting the whole engine together. As before, he does an excellent job explaining every detail of his design and build process in terms that a layman can understand, keeping no secrets about how he did it. He calls this the RC374 both as an homage to Honda’s original model name, as well as a more accurate description of its displacement.

I am completely blown away with any of Allens creations and the ease of how he actually creates a unique part, such a laid back fella with so many skills that it would take a year just to get a sample of what Allen has accomplished in his shed/garage back home.

This is Christmas and I am sure you lot are off of work and I am also pretty certain its bloody cold where you are right now?

So, what better way than to watch this at home on the big screen if you can? Only 15 minute videos but if you are into engineering and want to see a Pure Genius at work, you will be mesmerized at the skill set and the ease at how Allen accomplishes any task at hand. he would make a great Professor at a university to teach you engineering that’s for sure.

The sound of this screaming 6 cylinder Race bike is the same as the Original as I have heard it, I love everything Allen does with all his machines but these Videos are all of building this RC347 Honda Six. so take a hour or so Break away from your Turkey, Ham or tri Tip and sit and watch how this Mechanical Wizard creates this unbelievable machine.

Merry Christmas from Carpys Cafe Racers.

Classic Honda CB500-4 Cafe from Back Home now resides here

Posted on September 22, 2022September 22, 2022 by Steve Carpenter

22 Sep

Well, its always great to add another ride to the stable here at home and this one is a real doozy, as this is a super cool Cafe Bike that was built a long time ago back home in England and is now all the way across the pond with me.

This 1972 CB500 Four still wears the original license plate from Back home and I love the fact it is still there as it brings back so many memories of my Motorcycles I owned when I resided in England and super stoked to have this with me now.

The bike is a time capsule in a way and really is how we built Café Bikes in my era of the 70’s, this is a very cool ride, not my favorite Color I must admit but a true old Café of my era that i saw everywhere that I rode to and hope to get this fired up soon. This has not run for many many years, carbs are stuck, front brake is stuck and am sure the tank needs to be recoated inside as it is a Fiberglass version.

Bodywork is very reminiscent of the Bimota series of styled bikes and I will one day paint the whole bike again as the frame is painted that teal color and I thing a New Livery would be just what the doctor ordered, but that’s for way later on, as I need to get to work and see if I can get the 50 year Old inline four to breath a new lease of life once again. She has never run in the USA so will be eager to get this sorted out and will be fun taking it for a run around the twisting roads in the canyons that I have here where I live.

I am super excited to get the old girl going and see how she handles around the country roads around here, the rear sets are pretty cool and set back nicely, so my legs will fit tine on this machine, I do have to source another Master Cylinder but no Biggy there and I know the brakes will need to be gone through and again, no worries there either just time and energy of which I have bags of.

The Carburetor’s are another story, as they are stuck and I will tear these ones down to see what the issue is and address the issue to get this running again, no idea what the wiring is like either so a full inspection is needed to see where the lay of the land actually lays and I can get some sort of List together of parts needed and work to be performed on this half century bike.

Its sits pretty level too which is nice has a made up 4 into one exhaust system, front header is stainless and rear is steel, interested to see how it sounds once she bursts into life, of course I need to get a new battery, new plugs and oil plus filter etc. but that is the same for any bike that’s not run in years.

You don’t see too many of the CB500 Models, mostly the slightly bigger 550’s, so its cool to have a 500 four here at the shop and look forward to kicking this back into life once more and seeing how she handles on the Southern California Tarmac.

These are a fun compact Powerhouse of a machine and back in the day, Several CB500 machines were entered in the Production TT races on the Isle Of Man in the early 1970s. Bill Smith won the 1973 500 cc TT Production race (four laps) riding one, 8.2 seconds ahead of second place Stan Woods mounted on a Suzuki Two Stroke Twin.

I remember doing this to my Side Covers back in the day to get the thing to breath, ha ha, so much fun back then trying all you could to squeeze extra power out of your Motorcycle, these carbs need to be totally over hauled but it will sound so nice when running again.

Something about home made Rear sets that I love and this is a great little set up, no show chrome here, just road racing type rear sets that get you a more low down ride and faster gear changing etc.

I wont make any Modifications as such as this is a Classic Cafe with British Styling, but will make sure it runs well, Hard and sounds throaty for sure, I may change the headlight for an earlier style as that’s an aftermarket version and bring the headlight in more towards the frame and change turn signals to a stealthier look but early style.

Its a fun little Road Rocket and am sure with this Ohlins steering stabilizer, this will help with the wobbling in the tight bends that lay around where I live and will keep you updated on how this rides later on in a blog on the website.

So there she is, a great British Build Cafe Bike that oozes Nostalgia and I am happy that I will be able to ride this soon and remember the days I used to go to all the Road Races around the UK on my little Buzz Bomb.

Thanks for reading my Blog today, hope you fig this bike as Much as I do and I shall be doing follow ups as I go along as many of you ask if I can keep taking photos and writing what antics I have gotten up to with these Classic in line Four Machines.

I guess its time to get back into the Barn and turn some wrenches today, the Carburetor’s first, then the brakes, but love what I do and the challenges ahead, I will of course keep you posted on how I do here at Carpys Garage.

Italian Thoroughbred Thruxton R is pure Class.

Posted on December 15, 2017January 30, 2020 by Steve Carpenter

15 Dec

Caff bikes terminology has not changed, back in the day, these words seemed to be only understandable to the sub- Culture that lived and breathed these British Factory bikes that were stripped down, parts either sold off or re-fabricated to enhance the Motorcycles speed, Handling and of course performance, but as well as looks, your machine needed to stand out, to really stamp an exclamation mark of Ton Upmanship. This has been my lifes interest and when I saw this machine, well, I just had to Blog about it.

But, now in 2017, we have come a long way, a few years ago it was still a sub culture in the Caff World but, with people creating unique looking machines, the media on the two wheeled industry could not but notice this newer trend of creating your very own Rocket and the proof of that pudding is when Meridian turned out the Triumph Thruxton in 2004, it sure turned heads and the sub culture took a back step and now it has gone mainstream.

Nothing wrong with that, just look at the Brand New Triumph Thruxton R, I mean look at them, they have an old look, but- They have a strong, reliable engine that produces so much power to the ground its breath taking, the lines are so smooth and flowing that even Alberto Vargas could not equal that in any of his renderings.

New modern technology with front forks, full floating brakes and sturdy swing-arm, gives this bike a Classic look with futuristic handling.

So, when you clap your eyes upon a Thruxton -R, you think to yourself, “This is as far as you could go with a Caff Racer” I mean, what else could you do to make this machine any more appealing.

Well. over in the town of Massa in Italy, you will find Alo and his Motorcycle company, they have been creating Caff Racers for about 10 years now and when they were approached by the high end watch manufacturer Meccaniche Veloci to design and build a stylish Cafe Style Motorcycle using a Triumph Thruxton -R, well they were on board right away and began the transformation of a really eye catching Motorcycle, into a precision work of art that runs as smooth as one of the Clients Time Pieces.

Just take a look at the craftsmanship of this machine, the exhaust are of course Italian, from Zars but with a few modifications, take a look at the tail pipes to see that the ends of the silencers features a unique 4 hole design that is reminiscent of the 4 faces of the companies Quattro Valvole watch. The headers flow so well and hug tight and high the the machine, being as one so to speak. Much fettling was applied to get this set up to look like it was from the factory and boy- Did these fellas pull that job off.

The Original Factory Plastics were removed, this machine needed to have some top quality Aluminum panels made, so to start, they decided they would hand form a front fairing but a full version reminiscent of the days back in the UK with a Phil Read style, that flowed like water from a tap. This was by no means an easy task, the lines are smooth but not straight, and to get them flowing curves, many hours of hand forming were spent in the workshop. Using just 3 pieces of Aluminum these were massaged into the work of art you see on this motorcycle, they also fabricated some side covers to keep everything in contrast with the front end.

The detail is so pleasing and reminiscent of the time pieces that Meccaniche Veloci manufacture, as even the leather material used for the Hand formed seat, used the same stitching as the time pieces have as the wrist strap, with the traditional racing stripe incorporated to show this is a fast machine. The Herringbone style stitching works very well and sets this apart from anything out there right now, all handcrafted at the workshop.

The finished example of Alo’s hard graft is so apparent, aptly named “the Bullet” This is on another level of machinery you may see of any Thruxton R right now and would love to see this at our 59 Club O.C. meet as it is such an eye catching Motorcycle and would love to hear them Zard pipes in action, as it would probably sound as deep and strong as Pavarotti himself.

So thats my Blog for today, a nice piece of Italian styling that will always attract attention, I hope you enjoyed Fridays Blog and I try to do as much as I possibly can to promote these machines and of course the lifestyle too.

Now I have to try and at least clean u my old 2013 900 and give it a go but man thats a nice machine Aldo has created.

Have fun with your machine today or over the weekend, looking at things like this always gets my creative juices flowing and I am now looking forward to wrenching on my own Thruxton.

If you are anywhere near Massa in Italy, pop in to see Aldo, they have a wicked workshop and you will enjoy their creations.

Have a super weekend and let me know if I can help with any parts for your machines.

RARE ORIGINAL HONDA CB750 PHIL READ REPLICA

Posted on December 11, 2017January 30, 2020 by Steve Carpenter

11 Dec

The Colin Seeley-built Honda CB750 Phil Read Factory Replica is a very rare motorcycle, approximately 150 were made and they have the distinction of being the first fully faired race replica available to buy off the showroom floor from a Japanese marque.

COLIN SEELEY

The motorcycle frames developed by Colin Seeley in the 1960s and onwards were so revolutionary that they had an enduring global impact on motorcycle engineering – an impact that continues to the current day. Colin grew up in a motorcycle family, his father owned a Vincent Rapide and they would both travel to the nearby race track Brands Hatch to watch the races.

Seeley started his working life as an apprentice at Harcourt Motorcycles, where he became acquainted with Bernie Ecclestone who ran a used motorcycle dealership nearby. Over the course of his young career he also worked as a mechanic at a driving school – where he tried driving a car for the first time. Colin spent much of his free time in his parents shed working on his own projects, and learning the fundamentals of motorcycle design and engineering.

He started racing in 1954, and over the course of his competition career he would race in endurance road events, off road enduro and scrambles races, and road-based sidecar racing – this latter form of motorsport would capture his heart, and it would be the one in which he would win the most accolades.

Upon retiring from competition at the end of the 1967 season, Seeley turned his attention to manufacturing frames and complete motorcycles for racing. Although he had no formal engineering training, he had an intuitive ability to bend and weld Reynolds 531 tubing into remarkably rigid frames. Though he started out building frames for British motorcycles he began a shift towards Japanese engines by the early 1970s.

THE SEELEY HONDA CB750 PHIL READ FACTORY REPLICA

The bike you see here is a rare bird, it was commissioned by Honda to celebrate Phil Read’s 1977 Isle of Man TT victory in 1977 aboard an 820cc version of the Honda CB750 F2. The F2 had been released a year earlier in 1976 as an upgrade over the original CB750. It had a new head with larger valves, a hotter cam shaft, and 28mm Keihin carburetors with accelerator pumps – this boosted power slightly to 70 hp at 9500 rpm.

In order to celebrate their Isle of Man TT victory Honda decided to have a series of race replicas built, so they commissioned Colin Seeley’s legendary company to convert otherwise stock CB 750 F2s into official Phil Read Replicas.

Seeley’s team fitted a double beam full fairing with Cibie headlights, a hand-formed 5 gallon alloy fuel tank, racing-style rear sets, a new single seat and rear cowl, a custom high-performance exhaust, and it was all finished off in the same red/white/blue color scheme used by the Honda Britain Racing Team.

Only 150 or so bikes were built before a disagreement between Phil Read and Honda killed the project. Colin Seeley remained undeterred, and slightly redesigned the model, then continued selling it as the Honda Britain, with Honda selling them as the CB750SS.

It’s thought that less than 40 original Honda CB750 Phil Read Replicas have survived, and this is one of them. Amazingly it has 0 miles on the odometer and it’s claimed that it’s never been started – making it almost certainly the most original example in existence.

The Honda britain was rare to find back then, and even more so now, I have had a couple of Phil Read Kits but not complete, and to see one of these is so much of a thrill as I have built so many CB750 Honda’s over the years and this is a gem of a bike.

Yeah, with Zero miles too, thats rare, but I would still ride it at least once in its life as I had an Original Seeley Honda with 9/10ths of a mile on the clock and I rode it 15 miles and, so glad that I did as it is completely different to ride as the geometry is so good.

These machines are so well Balanced, I cannot tell you the night and day experience it is until you get the chance to ride one of these amazing machines.

The Cibie headlights were such an amazing look for its time and the Phil Read Motorcycle was an instant Reminder of what this bike is just by the front end alone.

When a few Phil read kits came out, I fitted a few to stock bikes and it sure changed the look easily and now a hard item to locate at all these days in good order.

There is something about a Full fairing and as I was a Motorcycle Dispatch Rider in London, these would of been like a Cadillac for me as not only would it cut the wind down and the weather, I could store all sorts of things in the fairing.

Slightly bigger headers helped the Motor breathe and Double Disc front end make sure that you could stop the increase in the power plant.

I was never a Fan of the Comstar rims, they looked cheap, were made cheaply and just didn’t have that classic look, in fact my bike had Lester Rims which were Mags and way better.

What I did like was the hand formed Aluminum 5 Gallon Gas tank, it was a sturdy set up with nicely formed knee indents, but what I did notice was how much heavier the bike was when I filled this huge Petrol tank up to the brim.

Up sweep 4 into 1 system sounded great compared to the original steel Cannon that Honda used as a stock version and this flowed so well.

I do remember the Rubber Vacuum Cleaner belt that held the gas tank would snap from time to time, the suspension was the good old Girling shocks, you either used Girling or Koni back in the day and these were the best available for the era.

As this was a Honda Production road Race machine, it has stock rear lights and of course the main stand too, thats 12 pound you could lose right away if you removed.

Keep your eyes out for these machines, they turn up once in a while, some may just be kits, but none the less, what a great era to relive these days.

If you see some Honda Britains on the road, or at a show, take a good look at them as they are very unique, super machines and a shame they only made a handful of these motorcycles.

You could buy the Body Kit for about 360 Quid and the bike would transform into a replica, albeit no extra bolt on power though LOL.

Keep your eyes peeled as kits do turn up from time to time and its so refreshing to see one of these bikes on the road, I have only seen one out here but a few did make it to the states and many kits did too.

Thanks for reading my Blog and have a Great week at work. below is my Old Seeley I truly miss.

Peace & Grease as always.

Happy Holidays

59 Club O.C. takes a Ride out to Palas Verdes July 9th.

Posted on July 12, 2017January 30, 2020 by Steve Carpenter

12 Jul

Well, July came in fast and Hot, so hot infact I wasn’t too sure if I should jump on the Trumpy but once I slung on My leather jeans and boots, I knew I was committed to doing this ride and to be honest, even though it was crazy Hot here in La Mirada, we were riding to the coast and will at least get some Sea Breeze to help us cool down.

I really enjoy going out and riding with a bunch of friends and today was no exception.

So, we pulled the Triumphs out, I fueled up early in the Morning, Jenn went off and got hers whilst I lubed my chain, checked tire pressure and did a visual inspection on my Thruxton, as everybody should really do when they are going on a ride. Once that was completed, we waited for Tim Albright who is a mate of ours, and is a 59 Club member as well as living just up the road from us, soon as he pulled up, we got ready to make the trip to the Meet up, of which that was a few miles up the road at a Burger joint.

Plenty of people turned up for this July ride and was great to see some Newbies that had seen our posting for a ride and have them come hang out and see what the 59 Club is all about.

Fellow Brit Brendan Cowman turned up on his Thruxton Ace, he is originally from Birmingham and an Aston Villa fan, I cant hold that against him though. LOL.

We all made sure we had fuel and discussed quickly the route that we would be taking, going to Palas Verdes will be a nice change and, even though it was hot as hell right now, I knew the sea air would be a lot cooler as we got closer to the beaches etc.

Jennifer lead for a bit and I was super stoked to see her take the lead, its fun to see everyone having fun, we had fun right out of the Bat as Amanda forgot her license, so whilst she went and got that, we got ready and then left a few minutes later and turned up outside her house, such a blast as I am sure the neighbors must of wondered what the hell was going on as 16 riders pull up on Triumphs and Moto Guzzi and stop outside Amanda’s house.

Soon as we did that we took a couple of pics and made our way to the cooler part of SoCal, even if it was only a couple of degree’s, it would make all the difference., the ride was pretty hot to start of with but the closer to the Sea you got, the better the air was becoming, something I think we all needed with this crazy weather pattern we have now.

The ride was fun as we took side streets and only got separated for a few seconds as having 16 riders can take the road up and the traffic lights caught us out, but being an organised club, soon as they notice missing riders, the main group pull over to wait for us. It worked out really well and enjoyed the ride through the back streets, although long beach was an eye opener but fun none the less.

We rode up past terminal island and into Palos Verdes, the smooth winding Coastal roads were a nice change, although we did have a huge Van going slow for a few miles, but laughing at the people playing Gold at Trumps place made it worth while.

We stopped off in this parking lot opposite the sea and found a really cool Pub that was tucked in the corner of a bunch of Nail salons etc, called OFlahertys Tap House and boy was it a fun little Bar, the Barman was a great laugh and made us all what we wanted, we stayed there at least 90 minutes, soaking up a few suds and having some food, looking at old Platinum albums and cassette tapes in frames and vintage guitars, it suited the barman who was with out a shadow of a doubt an old school headbanger.

Although Steve Fellon Below looked like he had one too many! LOL!

It made for a superb stop to be honest and gave us some time to cool down and have a chine wag with everyone, and after a couple of Lager Shandys, I was ready to get back on the Tarmac once more and have a fun ride back.

There were 16 Riders and it was a good turn out, everyone was great, no issues and no break downs, and as we went up through the twisties I took a video or two just to keep and show later on.

A fun day out and more to come as we head on into the riding year with many great places to visit.

We always have fun, no pressure, no attitude, just a great time with all.

If you want to come and ride with us sometime, always check out our schedule at:

https://www.meetup.com/Carpys-Cafe-Racer-Meetups/

Thanks for looking and if you need any more info, you can drop me a dime at.

714-598-8392 Text or call.

or email at:

carpy@carpyscaferacers.com More than happy to help.

Thanks again for reading my Blog today.

Bimota CB750 Honda SOHC INLINE FOUR

Posted on February 19, 2017January 30, 2020 by Steve Carpenter

19 Feb

In September 1972, Massimo Tamburini crashed his Honda 750 Four at the Misano racetrack. The accident left him with three broken ribs. If the accident hadn’t occurred, Bimota may never have come into existence. While Massimo was recuperating, he constructed a tubular steel frame that could withstand the horsepower being produced by the big Japanese manufacturer’s engines. The frame Massimo constructed lowered the center of gravity and reduced the weight of the original Honda. With the creation of the HB1, the Bimota was born. Only ten of these bikes were ever produced.

The Bimota name was derived from its founder’s initials; Bianchi, Morri and Tamburini. However, it was the enthusiasm and engineering excellence of Massimo Tamburini that carried the Company to success. In the 1970s, Bimota produced racing frames that caught the attention of serious bike racers. Frames such as the YB1, YB2, YB3 and HDB1, HDB2 and SB1, were of superior quality and the perception of what a racing bike should be was changed forever.

Only 10 of the HB1 were built. None of them was designed to be street legal, they were all meant to be race bikes. The mos it beginst famous driver was Luigi Anelli, who raced a HB1 in 1973. Today, this is probably the most sought after special framed Honda CB 750 SOHC/4 bike.

………..now it begins.

1975 Bimota HB1 Clone

1 of 1 and only one in USA

Article by James McBride Silodrome

Article by Chris Hunter Bikeexif

Photography by Ryan Handt Ryan Handt

Carbon Fiber version or Original white

Completed Sept 27, 2016

Lots detail on my Instagram

Bimota HB1 (Honda – Bimota 1) CB750 Clone

Bimota’s first Japanese / Italian hybrid

HB1 custom frame by Framecrafters

Carbon fiber tank, Seat fender and front fender

Over 50 custom designed parts all hand made

This is a true Stressed-member frame.

Photo below is of 1 of only 10 original Bimota HB1 750 ever built from BX-1 kit.

It appears there may only be 4 in existence and this clone.

Specifications:

Engine:

Engine CB750K4 1974

Honda CB750 Engine 100% Rebuilt

Engine detailed by Rob

Megacycle Cam

K&N Air Filter

Custom Oil Pressure Gauge by Rob

Custom oil tank by Ian Halcott Twinline Motorcycles

Custom oil lines with custom CNC engine adaptors by Rob

Dynatek Electronic Ignition

4X4 Custom Mandrel bent exhaust with hand bent megaphone silencers, Magni Style

Custom CNC exhaust hangers by Rob

Titanium and Stainless Steel fasteners

Frame:

Custom HB1 stressed-member frame by FrameCrafters.net , CNC frame parts by Rob

HB1 Carbon Fiber tank

Ducati petcocks

Carbon Fiber seat with leather upholstery and tail glove compartment

Carbon Fiber front fender

Paint and decals as original

Custom front and rear axles

Original type custom CNC eccentric chain adjuster by Rob

Custom axle spacer by Rob

Custom CNC brake disc spacers by Rob

Suspension +

Marzocchi shocks

Brembo front calipers

Caliper mounts designed and CNC by Rob

Dual front disc brakes with modified hub by Rob

Drilled rotors by Rob

Brembo caliper – rear disc brakes

Brembo rear master cylinder

Brembo master cylinder mount by Rob

New CB750 Front brake master cylinder

Custom made brake lines front and rear by Hel Performance

Fully tuneable Ceriani GP35R forks

Custom adjustable offset triple tree, 45mm +/- 2.5mm or +/- 5mm by Rob

Tommaselli Clip-Ons

Tarozzi rear sets

Custom shift and brake rods by Rob

Excel Aluminum shoulder rim

Stainless Steel spokes by Buchanan

Bridgestone BT45 tires

Road race grips

Electrical

MotoGadget M-Unit with Custom wiring

Micro Processor operated supervised circuits
Hazard warning lights
Internal fusing with current monitoring with automatic circuit shut down
Semiconductor switching
Automatic turn signal shut-off
Programmable flasher Digital brake light modulator with flashing sequence
Integrated Starter relay Automatic headlight turn off during starter routine
Integrated horn relay
Integrated alarm system
LED circuit indicators for active circuits

Ceriani headlight mount with integrated led turn signals

Custom Front Led turn signals by Rob

Classic tail light housing with LED lighting and signals

Original CB750 headlight with Halogen Tri-Bar lamp

Original CB750 Handle bar controls

Original CB750 Tachometer with custom Bimota HB1 dial by Rob

Dakota Digital Speedometer

Custom Dashboard and indicators by Rob

Anti-Gravity lithium battery

Custom CNC battery/solenoid tray by Rob

Solid State regulator/rectifier integrated into custom CNC starter cover

This is original Bimota HB1

So much great professional work and a Killer Motor, this will ride and handle like any Race bike and a rare sight to see these days, below is more photos of this superb Bimota to make your day go by a little easier Just check the photos below in the Gallery. From Husky Restorations.

Women’s History Month !!!

Posted on July 7, 2016January 30, 2020 by Steve Carpenter

07 Jul

July is National Women’s Motorcycle Month and I want to kick it off with a few cool shots of these lovely ladies and what they have achieved to get any sort of recognition to be as equal on the road as guys. My girl rides and we have some great Girl riders in our 59 club that I am stoked to have, I hope we get to see many more women on the road as we are all equal.

One in 10 motorcyclists is female, but the range of motorcycles out there doesn’t tend to cater for the average female rider that well. We’re talking seat height. Most men don’t worry about how tall a motorcycle’s seat is, but our female readers say it’s often the first thing they want to find out when they see a motorcycle they like.

Our top 10 encompasses new and used models but we haven’t just gone on seat height alone; we’ve tried to add variety by catering for different types of motorcycles, budgets, engine capacities and manufacturers. All the time, we’ve kept an eye on the bike’s weight too. Less weight is obviously more manageable, no matter what your size and stature.

So what is a typical seat height?

Let’s take three common motorcycles to give us an idea of seat height. Honda’s CBF125 has a seat height of 792mm, Suzuki’s SV650S stands at 800mm and Kawasaki’s ZX-6R has a seat height of 830mm. Generally speaking, cruisers have lower seat heights but their seats are often wide and these types of motorcycles can be heavy. Adventure-style motorcycles often have taller suspension to soak up bad surfaces but you don’t have to rule them all out.

How is seat height measured?

A motorcycle’s seat height is measured with the bike standing upright (not on its side stand) from the lowest point of the saddle to the ground. Manufacturers quote their seat heights in the specification panel of each model. We could only find one manufacturer (Buell, now bust) who quote their seat height based on the height of the seat with an ‘average weight’ rider onboard. So watch out for that.

Width matters

The outright height of a motorcycle’s seat is important, but the seat’s width matters too. Some motorcycles with a low seat height have a wide seat which spreads out your legs, making it harder to get your feet flat on the ground.

Is one-foot down enough?

When it comes to finding a motorcycle, you may try a few where you can’t get both feet firmly on the ground but you can get one foot flat. Is that enough? Well that depends on your strength and confidence. Most riders would be fine if they were told they could only put one foot down but confidence is the key. It’s okay to ride a motorcycle where you can only get one foot on the ground and doing so will open up a few more options for you to choose from, but it’s important to feel comfortable with the motorcycle you’re buying. So ask yourself: Is one foot enough?

Motorcycle lowering tips

You don’t always have to fit a lowering kit, which has the adverse effect of altering the bike’s handling characteristics and potentially making your bike worth less on the used market. You can fit a lower seat, which a lot of manufacturers sell as a factory option but companies like Corbin, Wunderlich and Touratech also sell lower aftermarket seats. You could alter the seat yourself, cutting the foam to reduce the seat’s height and width. You could also look at footwear that gives you extra height. Boots like Daytona’s Lady-Star are a good option as they feature a chunky sole. You could also talk to your local cobbler about adding a thicker sole to your existing boots. A lowering kit, while effective, should be seen as a last-ditch option.

AS a man, have you ever wondered why you don’t see many women racers (or, if you’re a woman, wondered why there are so many male racers)? Is it because women don’t come equipped with the same number of arms and legs as a bloke? Is it because, in general, female brain chemistry predisposes the fairer sex towards skills not immediately associated with those required to win races? Either way, there are exceptions. And, as MotoGP commentators discover with depressing regularity, it’s utterly impossible to talk about female racers without coming across as patronising. But we’ll try. Here are ten of the most outstanding female competitors.

10. Beryl Swain, TT

The 1962 50cc TT is usually remembered for being Suzuki’s first TT victory, on a bike ridden by ex-MZ rider and defector Ernst Degner. But it also marked the debut of the first female TT rider, Mrs Beryl Swain, riding a 50cc Itom. She completed the two-lap race half an hour behind Degner, coming home 22nd of 25 finishers with an average of 48mph against Degner’s 75mph. Such was the concern for the safety of women riders, they were subsequently banned from riding the TT circuit until 1978, when Hilary Musson entered the TT Formula 3, coming 15th. Musson continued to race at the TT until 1985.

9. Patsy Quick, enduro and Dakar

The first Britain woman to compete in the Dakar in 2003 during which she suffered a serious crash, was left temporarily blinded before being rescued by a media helicopter and airlifted to a Cairo hospital for life-saving surgery. Undaunted, Patsy returned in 2004 only to be beaten by appalling weather, and then by mechanical breakdown in 2005. But in 2006 she finished the rally, the first British woman to do so. She currently runs a KTM-backed enduro riding school in Sussex.

8. Michelle Duff, 250 and 500 Grand Prix

Born in 1939 in Toronto, Canada, Mike Duff was a successful Grand Prix racer in the 60s, riding for MZ, Norton and Yamaha, winning three 250cc Grand Prix and finishing the 1965 season second in the 250cc championship behind Phil Read. At the end of 1965 Mike suffered a bad accident in Japan and spent six months in hospital. Returning to Grand Prix for two more years, Mike moved back to Canada at the end of 1967, continued national racing, and also began working as a motorcycle journalist. Married twice with three children, Mike wrote a book about his years in Grand Prix in 1982, called Make Haste, Slowly. Then, in 1984, Mike Duff became Michelle Duff. Invited out of retirement to ride in classic bike races in 2000 aged 60, Michelle crashed heavily at Spa in 2008 and gave up track riding. Now aged 74, Michelle still writes and lives in Ontario.

7) Katja Poensgen, 250 Grand Prix

German-born Katja first rode a bike aged 5, entered her first race at 16, got her first podium a year later, and won the European Supermono Championship at 19. That success helped propel her into Grand Prix where, in 2001, she achieved a career-best 14th place in the 250cc Italian GP at Mugello riding an Aprilia RS250. She retired from competition in 2004 and gave birth to a daughter in 2005 (interestingly, the only woman in the list to have had children, excluding Michelle Duff), but the racing bug has bitten again and Poensgen has been dabbling in racing e-bikes and even mopeds, as well as working with motorcycle clothing brands.

6. Laia Sanz, Trials, World Enduro, Dakar

Laia Sanz, born in Spain, is the current Women’s World Enduro Champion. She’s also won the Women’s Trial World Championship 13 times and the Women’s Trial European Championship ten times. In 2011, at the age of 25, she competed in and completed the Dakar rally, finishing 39th overall, but it’s hardly a surprise she knows how to handle an off-road bike; she started riding at three and was racing by the age of seven. Although her position as best female off-road rider in the world is, in 2014, coming under threat from our own Jane Daniels, Sanz continues to be the benchmark rider by which all women are judged.

5. Maria Costello MBE, TT and Irish road races

One of the most recognisable names and faces in racing, Maria has done more than anyone to promote women’s participation in the sport since her 1997 debut in the Honda CB500 Cup. Since then she’s raced in numerous short circuit series including World Endurance, European Superstock and many others – but she’s always focussed primarily on road racing competing extensively in Ireland and especially the TT, where she held the female lap record for many years, and the Manx Grand Prix. Costello has also written and published an autobiography and is currently promoting her women-only track days.

4. María Herrera Muñoz, Spanish CEV Moto3

A name for the future, 17 year-old María from Toledo in Spain is currently leading the Spanish CEV Moto3 Championship – the wildly competitive feeder class into MotoGP Moto3 – with a win and second place. A wildcard ride in Moto3 at last year’s Aragon MotoGP failed to show her potential when she crossed the line in last place. But the early season results with the well-run Junior Team Estrella Galicia riding a Honda Moto3 NSF250 shows she has plenty of pace, leading home a field of 19 other riders, all male, all teenagers, and all riding out of their skins. She got talent. A female Marc Marquez?

3. Jenny Tinmouth, BSB

As the 2014 season opener at Brands BSB showed a few weeks ago, the first and only woman racing in British Superbikes isn’t just a token female filling out the grid. Qualifying in horrible, slippery, wet conditions, Tinmouth took her TWR Fireblade to 17th place on the grid and left a trail of seasoned BSB regulars in her wake. Dry race-day results of 27th and 23rd places say more about the bike and set-up than her ability. Jenny has worked up through the classes since her debut in 2000 on a 125GP bike, and on the way has become the fastest-ever woman at the TT setting an outright lap of 119.9mph in 2010. Which is most definitely not hanging about.

2. Jane Daniels, World Enduro

If you think the dirt is no place for a lady, think again. 20-year-old Husqvarna-supported rider Jane Daniels is the UK’s number one female enduro rider, taking second place overall in the Women’s Enduro World Cup in 2013 and winning the final race in France, beating the champ and Dakar competitor Laia Sanz. Daniels kicked off 2014 with a second in the opening Spanish round of the WEWC, and finished 12th overall in the Expert class at the recent Tough One hard enduro at Hawkstone Park. Highly-rated by fellow male riders, she’s tipped as a talent to watch for in the future regardless of her gender.

1. Ana Carrasco Gabarrón, MotoGP Moto3

Ana Carrasco, 17, is the only current female competitor in MotoGP, riding a Kalex KTM in Moto3. Born in Spain, she started riding bikes aged three, competed in the Spanish MiniGP series and rode in the Spanish 125 Championship. She made her debut on the Team Calvo KTM at the start of 2013 aged 16 and took her first World Championship points in the Malaysian GP later that year. At the last race in Valencia she finished 8th while teammate Maverick Vinales won the title. So far this season, riding for a new Dutch team, she’s yet to score. Unsurprisingly, her motto is “A woman in a man’s world”.

Barry Sheene Championship-Winning RG500s

Posted on June 29, 2016January 30, 2020 by Steve Carpenter

29 Jun

Barry Sheene was one of my ALL time heroes as a teenager, I watched him race at Snetterton by Grabbing my Crash helmet that had no guts in it, I rolled some newspaper up and stuck it in there, I hitch hiked to the track, ran along the side field by the hedges and jumped the fence, just to watch him battle with Kenny Roberts, I will never forget that. I watched him race and then I had a long haul back to my house, so I began to stick my thumb out- numerous cars and bikes passed me and I was a little annoyed as to not getting a lift- as my mum had no idea I was at the races, she thought I was at my mates house up in Elveden Village, so had to be back by dark and the clock was ticking.

Then this Brown Rolls Royce came up, I thought to myself
‘Worth A try”
So out goes my thumb, I see the driver shake his head saying sorry, so being frustrated, I gave him the 2 fingers.

Feck me! it was my Hero Barry Sheene and I just gave him the 2 finger salute! I was devastated that i had done that but will always remember it.

Below:
SHEENE CHAMPIONSHIP-WINNING BIKES ARRIVE FOR ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS
News / June 29, 2016

Barry Sheene’s 1976 and 1977 world championship-winning race bikes have arrived at Suzuki GB, ahead of the Barry Sheene festival at Oliver’s Mount next month and as part of the 40th anniversary celebrations of Sheene’s first world title.

The bikes have been shipped directly from Australia for various events in the UK this year, and will be on display at the festival to celebrate the achievements of Suzuki and arguably Britain’s greatest world champion.

Also on display will be a collection of classic Suzuki road bikes, including the GSX-R750F that was restored at Motorcycle Live last year, and the TL1000S that was built from brand new parts the year before, highlighting Suzuki’s commitment to its Vintage Parts Programme.

Suzuki GB’s Tim Davies, said, “With it being 40 years since Barry’s first world title, this year’s festival marks a very special anniversary, which is why we wanted to be a part of this event for a second consecutive year to celebrate such an occasion. The event at Oliver’s Mount is always a good one, but we decided to step it up a notch for this year’s event, and the display of the two championship-winning bikes is the first time that they have been displayed together at such an event in the UK.

“Alongside Sheene’s race bikes the GSX-R750F and TL1000S will be displayed and information available on our Vintage Parts Programme, which now has 9 bikes listed and is dedicated to helping owners of more classic Suzuki machinery restore and maintain them with genuine parts.”

Scott Beaumont, Oliver’s Mount’s Marketing Director, added, “Suzuki’s commitment to the Barry Sheene festival at Oliver’s Mount is absolutely fantastic and for them to step it up again this year by displaying Barry Sheene’s actual race winning machines is every road racing fan’s dream. This could be the only opportunity in our lifetime that we see these machines and we are very proud that Suzuki has chosen Oliver’s Mount to display them.”

The Barry Sheene Festival will take place at Oliver’s Mount on 23-24 July, 2016. For more information visit www.oliversmountracing.com

Gotta watch this too:

BELOW:

Silverstone Story 1985 Barry Sheene and Freddy Spencer

Another cool old documentary about Barry on TV back home on Channel 4.

Race of the year 1977 a year before I left school.

Below:
Barry Sheene at Daytona on Practice when the Crash almost kills him. This was a documentary filmed by Thames television back home.

Not great quality but real History.

A continued version with commentary from Murray Walker.

Barry Sheenes last race.
One of my other heroes “Rocket” Ron Haslam, team mate, banging it out on the track, Epic.

Isle of Man TT Schedule 2016

Posted on April 20, 2016January 30, 2020 by Steve Carpenter

20 Apr

Just for those who may be interested in what is going on at the Manx Island , here is the schedule for the up and coming events.

ISLE OF MAN TT 2016

EVENT & RACE GUIDE

The Isle of Man TT is a two-week festival held on a 37-mile plus race course featuring events on and off the track.

With the circuit being on closed public roads the track is open when there is no racing or practices taking place, you can (if you have your bike) do laps of the course but beware traffic will also be on the roads it is not a race track! The mountain section from Ramsey to Douglas is one way but speed limits are in place.

Held in the last week of May and the first week of June the Isle of Man TT is split into two weeks the first being known as qualifying or practice week, with daily sessions held in the evening from 6.30pm through to 9 pm where riders can get the bikes up to speed ready for the main race week.

During the practice sessions, the riders can choose which bikes they want to get the most laps on so you are guaranteed to see a real mixture of bikes on the track, previous years have seen unofficial lap records being broken. The sessions are held from Saturday to Friday (except Sunday) and feature top riders such as John McGuinness and Guy Martin from the Monday night through to the final night of Friday.

Race week is the second week of the festival and see’s races held on Saturday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday of which each race day features different races, the races tend to follow the same pattern year on year with the Superbike races held on Saturday and Friday’s while the Sidecar races are held on Saturday and Wednesday.

Isle Of Man TT 2016 Qualifying Schedule

Saturday 28th May
18.20 – Solo Newcomers Speed Controlled lap
18.25 – Sidecar Newcomers Speed Controlled lap
18.40 – Lightweight & Supersport + Newcomers (All Classes) Solo

Monday 30th May
18.20 -19.50 – Superbike/ Superstock/ Supersport + Newcomers (All Classes except Lightweight)
19.55 – 20.50 – Sidecars

Tuesday 31st May
18.20 – 19.25 – Superbike/ Superstock/ Supersport (Newcomers All Classes except Lightweight)
19.25 – 19.55 – Lightweight & Supersport +Newcomers (All Classes)
20.00 – Sidecars

Wednesday 1st June
18.20 – 19.50 – Superbike/ Superstock/ Supersport + Newcomers (All Classes except Lightweight)
19.55 – 20.50 – Sidecars

Thursday 2nd June
18.20 – 19.25 – Superbike/Superstock/Supersport (Newcomers All Classes except Lightweight)
19.25 – 19.55 – Lightweight & Supersport +Newcomers (All Classes)
20.00 – Sidecars

Friday 3rd June
18.20 – 19.45 – Superbike/Superstock/Supersport + Newcomers (All Classes except Lightweight)
19.50 – 20.35 – Sidecars
20.40 – TT Zero 1 lap qualifying

Isle Of Man TT 2016 Race Schedule

Saturday 4th June
11.00 – RST Superbike TT Race (6 laps)
14.00 – Sure Sidecar TT Race 1 (3 laps)
15.30 – Superstock/ Supersport/ Lightweight practice (2 laps)

Monday 6th June
10.45 – Monster Energy Supersport TT Race 1 (4 laps)
12.25 – Sidecar qualifying (2 laps)
14.15 – RL360 Superstock TT Race (4 laps)
16.05 – Lightweight qualifying (1 lap)
16.25 – TT Zero qualifying (l lap)

Wednesday 8th June
10.45 – Monster Energy Supersport TT Race 2 (4 laps)
12.25 – Sidecar qualifying (1 lap)
14.00 – Bennetts Lightweight TT Race (4 laps)
15.45 – Senior TT qualifying (1 lap)
16.20 – TT Zero Race (1 lap)

Friday 10th June
10.15 – Sure Sidecar TT Race 2 (3 laps)
12.30 – PokerStars Senior TT Race (6 laps)

ISLE OF MAN TT NONRACE DAYS

On the nonrace days during race week, Sunday known as Mad Sunday is a day where the general public do a lap or laps of the course, the roads are not closed so it’s not a racing track but visitors tend to go around the track. Peel day which is a fun day in Peel located on the east of the island also takes place on Sunday.

Tuesday of race week see’s the Ramsey Sprint which is a day of sprint races along the promenade in Ramsey, here you can see some wacky and crazy machines! Thursday’s attention turns to Laxey where a bike show is held, you can even show your own bike off!

2016 PRE TT CLASSIC & POST TT RACES

Little and unknown races take place on the Southern 100 circuit in near to Castletown in the south of the island. The Pre-TT Classic races take place the weekend at the start of the main practices while the Post TT Races are run on the Saturday after the Senior TT, another excuse not to leave the island early!

We have been made aware that some Isle of Man residents are offering places to stay during the Isle of Man TT and Festival of Motorcycling but are not legally registered.

Under Isle of Man law, there is a legal requirement to be registered when offering tourism accommodation. Offering rooms or a property when not being registered can also have a negative impact on the homeowners home insurance.

If you would like to check to see if a property is registered please contact us, it takes 2 minutes to check a property. We just need the proprietors name and address.

Send us a message on Facebook or call 01624 694456, email homestay@iomttbreaks.com.

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Regency Travel based in Douglas, Isle of Man is the Isle of Man TT races official Isle of Man TT Travel and Ticketing partner.

ISLE OF MAN

Isle of Man, Marine Drive

Located in the middle of Irish sea between the coastlines of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, you’ll find our beautiful Island the Isle of Man.

Blessed with an extensive coastline, stunning landscapes and unspoilt beaches, the Isle of Man is a perfect holiday destination that’s within easy reach of the rest of the British Isles.

On the island and you will find a place full of contrasts and character. Whether you’re looking for an action packed break, relaxing holiday or the perfect family holiday destination.

The Isle of Man is just 33 miles in length and 13.5 miles wide with 100 miles of coastline. The Island is famous for it’s annual TT Races, a series of motor-cycle races which attract people from all over the world to the Isle of Man.

Douglas is the islands capital and is home to the islands Sea Terminal (where the ferry arrives and departs) and features an extensive array of Bars, Clubs, Casino, Restaurants. During the TT festival Douglas is home to the evening entertainment on Douglas Promenade (Race week only) and is also the location of the TT Village which consists of the courses Start/Finish line, TT Grandstand and TT Paddock.

Douglas is 20 miles from the islands airport ‘Ronaldsway’ and is the main hub for the islands transport system. From here you can get a bus to any location on the island, you can also get a Steam Train to the south of the island and also the Electric Tram to Laxey, Ramsey and the Snaefell mountain.

Moving further north to the Point of Ayre – the Island’s most northerly tip – you’ll find the Ayres Nature Reserve which is one of the best places to wildlife watch.

Douglas And The East

Douglas Promenade

Visit the Island’s capital of Douglas for a unique blend of traditional seaside resort, thriving finance centre and busy working harbour.

Set on the east coast, Douglas is the Isle of Man’s largest town and offers a wide range of things to see and do.

Set against a two-mile sweeping bay and sandy beach you’ll find the busy promenades buzzing with activity – why not take a trip along the stretch on the horse trams where you’ll be afforded stunning views out to sea? Or start you journey south by steam railway or north by electric railway.

If you are interested in exploring the Island’s heritage, Douglas is a great place to start. The Story of Mann trail, which guides you around some of the most iconic sites, begins at the Manx Museum. A trip to the Great Union Camera Obscura on Douglas Head is also worth a visit.

And if it’s motorsport you’ve come for visit the TT Grandstand where you’ll have a bird’s eye view of the start and finish line as the bikes attempt the gruelling 37 ¾ mile Mountain Course.

You’ll find the Island’s main shopping area in Douglas as well as a wide range of guest accommodation and the magnificent Gaiety Theatre and Villa Marina – both of which offer a year round programme of entertainment.

Moving up the east coast you’ll find the picturesque village of Laxey which is set in a deep valley. Here you’ll be able to start your journey, either on foot or by rail, to the summit of the Island’s only mountain where you’ll be afforded views of the Seven Kingdoms on a clear day.

Laxey also offers an insight into the Island’s mining heritage. It’s home to the world’s largest working waterwheel, Lady Isabella, which used to pump water to the mines, as well as the Laxey Mines Railway – parts of which are still in operation.

Laxey

Laxey Wheel

Located just 7 miles from the islands capital Douglas lies the quiet picturesque village of Laxey.

Laxey is set in a deep valley and is home to the famous Laxey Wheel which is the world’s largest working waterwheel. Lady Isabella, which was used to pump water to the mines as well as the Laxey Mines Railway of which parts are still in operation.

WIthin the village itself you will find pubs, restaurants and local shops which stock all your needs. Laxey also have a small harbour and a beach which is a favourite with locals throughout the year.

It can be accessed from all parts of the island through regular bus services which go through Laxey from Ramsey and Douglas, while the Electric tram runs from Douglas to Ramsey stopping at Laxey station. From Laxey you can also take the Mountain Electirc railway to the highest point on the island and the islands only Mountain called Sneafell which on a clear day you can see the 7 kingdoms (Scotland, Ireland, England, Wales, Mann, Neptune and Heaven), you can also use the Mountain railway to get to the mountain section of the TT course.

Ramsey And The North

Ramsey from the Mountain Course

Head north and you’ll find Ramsey, the second largest town on the Island, set against the magnificent backdrop of the North Barrule hills.

You can reach Ramsey by travelling along the world famous TT Mountain Course, which affords stunning views of the countryside and coast, or on the Manx Electric Railway where the line terminates.

Ramsey boasts an impressive working harbour, masses of sand and shingle beach and one of the most impressive recreational spaces the Isle of Man offers. Set in 40 acres, Mooragh Park is a hotspot for visitors who will enjoy the sporting facilities, boating lake and children’s play areas.

Curraghs Wildlife Park in nearby Ballaugh is also worth a visit. This well maintained park is home to a wide range of wildlife from across the globe, much of which is set in walk through enclosures giving you the chance to get up close to these magnificent creatures.

If you’re looking for something to make your pulse race head to the Venture Centre in nearby Maughold where you can take part in a variety of exciting outdoor pursuits including kayaking, abseiling and coasteering.

And if you’re looking for something more relaxing don’t miss Milntown or the Grove Museum. These well preserved period properties offer a fascinating insight into what life was like hundreds of years ago.

Moving further north to the Point of Ayre – the Island’s most northerly tip – you’ll find the Ayres Nature Reserve which is one of the best places to wildlife watch.

Port Erin And The South

Peel

Port Erin And The South

Offering a variety of heritage attractions, glorious beaches and excellent walking trails, no trip to the Isle of Man is complete without a visit to the Beautiful South!

Popular with visitors since the Victorian era, Port Erin sits within a beautiful secluded bay which offers a magnificent sweep of sheltered sandy beach – enjoyed by watersports enthusiasts and families. Boat trips to the Calf of Man’s nature reserve and bird observatory also leave from here.

The town is also home to the most southern point on the Steam Railway line and has retained its original station as well as a comprehensive railway museum which showcases vintage transport memorabilia.

You’ll find Port Erin a great place to start if you’re looking to explore the fantastic walking trails in the south of the Island – try weaving your way around the coastline to The Sound in Port St Mary. You’ll be greeted with stunning views out to sea as well as the opportunity to spot the seals which bask on the small rocky islet near to the Calf of Man.

The busy harbour village of Port St Mary is home to the Island’s only nine hole golf course as well as Cregneash – a living museum which shows what life was like in the 19th Century Manx crofting community.

No visit to the south is complete without a trip to the ancient capital of the Isle of Man –Castletown – which is dominated by the imposing Medieval fortress of Castle Rushen. The castle is one of the best preserved in Europe and was once dominated by the Kings and Lords of Mann.

Located around the picturesque harbour you’ll also find the Old Grammar School, Nautical Museum, where you can learn about the Island’s maritime history, and Old House of Keys – the previous home of Manx parliament.

Peel And The West

Pay a visit to the aptly named “Sunset City” where you’ll be awarded stunning views of the sun setting, a glimpse of the Mountains of Mourne, and some of the best ice cream in the Isle of Man!

Located on the west coast, Peel is a thriving Manx fishing port with a marine heritage that spans hundreds of years.

Home to an extensive modern marina, the town welcomes a number of pleasure craft throughout the year – many of whom come for the fantastic sandy beach and variety of things to see and do.

The magnificent ruins of Peel Castle, located on St Patrick’s Isle, dominate the landscape and visitors can tour the remains as part of the Story of Mann trail.

There’s also the opportunity to find out more about the Island’s, and Peel’s, history by visiting the interactive House of Manannan museum, the Leece Museum and the unique Manx Transport Heritage Museum.

During your visit you’ll also find the Island’s only cathedral as well as a working kipper curers which offers a fantastic insight into the production of the famous Manx Kipper.

Between May and August Peel is also one of the best places in the British Isles to see basking sharks from the shore. Often up to the length of a bus in size they regularly come within metres of the shoreline and surrounding cliffs.

Near to Peel you’ll find the pretty village of St Johns which is home to the Tynwald Millsshopping centre as well as Tynwald Hill which is an important landmark in Manx history and the location of an annual open air meeting for the Island’s parliament.

Don’t forget to visit the secluded area of Niarbyl Bay, also on the west coast, which is one of the Island’s most important geological sites and offers fantastic walking trails.

Moving further north to the Point of Ayre – the Island’s most northerly tip – you’ll find the Ayres Nature Reserve which is one of the best places to wildlife watch.

Port Erin And The South

Port Erin Beach

Offering a variety of heritage attractions, glorious beaches and excellent walking trails, no trip to the Isle of Man is complete without a visit to the Beautiful South!

Peel And The West

Peel

Pay a visit to the aptly named “Sunset City” where you’ll be awarded stunning views of the sun setting, a glimpse of the Mountains of Mourne, and some of the best ice cream in the Isle of Man!

Located on the west coast, Peel is a thriving Manx fishing port with a marine heritage that spans hundreds of years.

Home to an extensive modern marina, the town welcomes a number of pleasure craft throughout the year – many of whom come for the fantastic sandy beach and variety of things to see and do.

The magnificent ruins of Peel Castle, located on St Patrick’s Isle, dominate the landscape and visitors can tour the remains as part of the Story of Mann trail.

During your visit you’ll also find the Island’s only cathedral as well as a working kipper curers which offers a fantastic insight into the production of the famous Manx Kipper.

Don’t forget to visit the secluded area of Niarbyl Bay, also on the west coast, which is one of the Island’s most important geological sites and offers fantastic walking trails.