foamfence

That's a bit of a generalisation and some people just have more talent and flair for riding than others, irrespective of how much effort they put in.

Isn't that explained in post 31?

I have it too! Works great and is very easy to read on my PC.

You're right, I just live in hope of getting out of it. I think you can make SOME rules though, don't the Germans have to have young German riders in their league teams? You could also make it so foreign riders can't be guests or be replaced by guests or RR if they are absent (that would make promoters think twice before hiring them). Despite some of the comments on here, I would like to see F2 get going, It's said that some of the major engine manufacturers are interested in it, maybe they or a sponsor could supply enough motors to get a few meetings going? It's worth a try.

I think riders should go to other countries on a like-for like basis. Look at the number of Danes, Swedes and Poles who ride here, there should be an equal number of Brits riding in their leagues. If they won't comply ban them! We really DON'T need them. Something like F2 would be a more affordable entry for beginners and it would be a good indicator as to who might make it at the 500cc level.

Actually there were no production motorcycles or IC engines (other than steam)for motorcycles until after that date in America. While the whole thing might be debatable it seems a bit strong to describe it as a load of rubbish. Your comments regarding the 1940/50s don't seem to have any relevance to my post. I remember the 50s and tracks coming and going, especially in the late 50s when we were down to just a handful, before the formation and eventual acceptance of the Provincial league. I still watch Speedway (I did have more involvement years ago)but I don't take it seriously as I've seen too much manipulation over the years. Modern racing had GPs, they have four permanent wildcards, that is so the main four countries can always have representation and anyone considered to put bums on seats can also be included (Pedersen in some recent years and next year there isn't a Swede anywhere near worthy of being in but, Hey Prest! 2). So the GPs are a fiddle to start with, they should be qualifiers or those who have finished at a certain level in the season before. But it's a business, as is league racing, where ridiculous things like tactical rides and points limits are used to try and make the uncompetitive appear to be competitive. I know some other sports could be looked on in a similar light but that is no excuse. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Johnnie_Hoskins

No they don't, the reason is that Speedway isn't a sport, it was conceived as a fairground attraction in Australia. People like Johnnie Hoskins and many of those who emulated him were just show promoters who retitled themselves as Speedway promoters. That might ruffle a few feathers but it's probably one of the main reasons why it isn't taken seriously by the majority of the public.

They mostly have straight forward oval racing, the TT is a variation for the same bikes and riders, it has to have right turns and at least one jump.

That sounds like Short Track TT. You couldn't do it on a Speedway bike. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1tzDZPWgd_s Fun to do but boring to watch.

There are some clubs (even in the Elite League)who are running at a loss, one of the most famous clubs in the country was thought to be near to folding in mid season. Situations like that (where you can't guarantee all clubs completing their fixtures and even paying their riders properly)shouldn't be risked, the sport here should be on a stable footing, it doesn't matter what the standard of the riders is, these things have happened in the past and the sport either downsized or cut back on expenditure. It survived and many people thought it was actually better, as young British hopefuls moved into vacant places and bettered themselves as a result. The best thing would be for clubs and riders who couldn't or wouldn't accept or manage a more affordable package, should be sacrificed in favour of a more sound set up. Back to the real world! Nothing much like that will happen and things will get even more precarious. Just my thoughts of course.

What it doesn't need though, is the long list of second rate overseas riders who fill all the minor team spots.

What reason would anyone have for wanting to know? I should imagine Somerset had a lot of bonus points this season because they had such a strong team, rather than track characteristics.

If someone has a fall or engine failure he can still make the final, there is always a build up and climax with a final (as with GPs), There is still a place for the old format though. Last nights farce shouldn't be seen as an example of any sort of format though.

I think you'll find that the REAL reason for him pulling out of both Elite and Premier play-offs wasn't financial.

Many riders who double up wouldn't manage financially in one league. Even Barker had to get a job as a truck driver last winter, but he would be unlikely to get any work during the season, unless it was for a sponsor or self-employment.

I see Kus ended the season with his usual flourish.

Once again, in English please.

Would you be saying that if Poole hadn't thrashed the Brummies?

It'll need a lot more than cheering.

I remember when Glynn Taylor was at Redcar he was toying with the idea of one of those machines that they use to melt the tarmac during road repairs, or something based on that idea, to rapidly dry the track.

Thomas Jorgensen replaces Micky Dyer.

The big spoiler for me was the number of foreign riders. I don't care if standards would be lowered or about comparisons with other countries leagues (many of which are near to bankruptcy), I'm just not interested in watching four foreigners racing, much like I'm not interested when the TV shows a football match between two foreign clubs. Maybe we should amalgamate the leagues and guarantee a minimum number of British riders in every team?

Not "Never too old"?

Astonishing result! It looked like a Diamonds win for the first few heats, then they fell to pieces. Can the Bears keep it up or has this section been handed to Somerset already?