Friends and family think I am barking mad to race a machine that has three wheels. The front not in line with the back, and steers differently on left corners and right corners, that needs a brave person to balance it when going around a corner. The driver cannot see the passenger, the passenger and driver cannot talk to each other, some might say that is a good thing at times. Fancy always gong to sleep with a smile on your face and waking up with that same stupid smile from ear to ear? If so this is the sport for you.

The first question that folks always ask when you say you race sidecars:

Are you racing in the TT?

Answer:

To get there the first time road race applicants are issued with a  Clubman “A” Licence who hold a current Full Class “ A” DVLA Licence. You have to obtain 10  signatures to be able to remove your newcomer orange jacket, which is issued to all passengers and drivers starting out. To move up to National Clubman you need to compete at and obtain signatures for, a minimum of 10 separate Race Days at 3 different circuits during the current year and preceding 2 years. Riders who obtained “U” grade signatures (top 50% finish) on their record card during 2010 will be credited with two signatures for each “U” signature collected. Then and only if the driver or passenger wishes to be upgraded to a National licence this can be requested at this point to the ACU. Apparently though if you have a National licence this can stop you entering some championships. 

International National Licences holders are those who have held their National licence for 12 months and who have competed at a minimum of 6 meetings in the previous 12 months then they can apply for a FIM Non- Championship International Licence and also after a medical.

International Championship National Licence holders are those who have held their National Licence for 12 months and who have competed at a minimum of 6 meetings in the previous 12 months may apply for a championship licence as described in the appropriate sporting code of the UEM or FIM. A medical is also required. A licence can be upgraded at any time during a year.

To enter the “Southern 100” races all Competitors resident in the UK must have a National Licence issued by the ACU or the SACU. To enter the “TT” all competitors must have held a National Licence for at least twelve months prior to the closing date for entries. Then must apply for a TT Mountain course licence issued by the ACU plus have a medical.

Passengers must hold a National Passenger Licence. Competitors from other FMN’s must have held an FIM International Non - Championship Licence for a minimum of twelve months prior to the closing date for entries.

All competitors must be over 18 years of age.

Answer:

Entering the Southern 100 in 2011. Is a distinct possibility provided that we find and experienced Road Racing Passenger.  6 more signatures required having obtained a National Licence in the next three years and then can apply for TT Licence. The dream is getting ever closer so god willing, money prevailing, more experience and good reliable equipment I hope to do it before 2014.

How much does it cost?

Someone also recently said to me "you do realise you will be broke most of the time"

Answer:

Not a cheap sport, lots of money a ridiculous amount actually! Currently looking for sponsors (see sponsors page for details)

Where did the name Team Oscar Racing come from?

Answer:

One morning after extensive shoulder and chest surgery I woke up growling and mumbling and popped out from under the duvet. to be told by my partner you look like and sound like "Oscar" from sesame street. Think he meant my spiky hair!! After a few seconds thought the Team name was born very apt really as "Oscar" lived in the bin and sidecars are often referred to as the dustbins.

Created decades ago for club racing as an affordable alternative to the spiraling costs of the exotic rear engine F1's. An F2 Sidecars comprises of a short wheelbase having a conventional engine position under the driver. The equisite tube frames of these machines are now as expensive and exotic as the F1's and also the speeds now exceed the F1 class which was banned from the TT. Steering must be done with conventional forks. The chair wheel is braked but not steered or suspended. Either Kevlar or fibre glass body. Not less than 65mm off the ground. Engine displacement is upto 600cc.

Team Oscar Outfit:

Chassis – Built originally by Trevor Ireson

ZX6R Kawasaki Engines – G/J/F parts (Not fuel injected)

Full set Avon Tires (Slick and Wet)

Maxton Front Suspension

Koni Rear Suspension

Race Sprockets (BJH)

E.B.C Green Pads

Fibreglass and Kevlar body.