Thunderfest Speed Trials will be held on 19 September, at Darley Moor road racing circuit in Derbyshire.

This year’s Thunderfest Speed Trials will take place at the Darley Moor National circuit on Sunday 19 September and there are still a few places available for both race and road machines.

Thunderfest is a new form of motorcycle sport aimed at riders who don’t want the cut and thrust of mainstream racing but still wish to take part in a competitive event.

The Thunderfest is a development of the time trials which have been popular in Europe for years and have occasionally been run in Britain. However, instead of aiming for an average speed set by the organiser, Thunderfest competitors decide their own target speed – fast or slow.

The idea is to make Thunderfest ultra safe for everyone – especially riders without competition experience or those who no longer want to get involved in flat out track battles.

Thunderfest is very much a test of riding skill, consistency and smoothness. Faster riders, using race machines, can set target times at racing speeds while road riders, on slower bikes, can ride more gently. Both fast and slow riders have an identical chance of winning one of the many trophies on offer.

The whole event is aimed at classic enthusiasts and there will be no modern bikes taking part. Rather, there is a relaxed and friendly atmosphere with the emphasis on nostalgia and enjoyment.

Entries are open to all motorcycles, road and race, made before 1975, and riders can purchase a single event ACU licence on the day of the Thunderfest.

The entry fee is £115. This will include camping, a souvenir for every rider and three track sessions comprising free practice, timed qualifying and the time trial. And just to add a bit of spice, every class in the Thunderfest will have a Le Mans start – but with running engines to protect hearts, lungs and legs!
By: James Robinson