Track racing in Britain is a speed event, which takes place on fairly smooth grass oval circuits and is more commonly known as grass track racing. Normally 8-12 riders contest races over four laps of a circuit, which will usually be from 500-700 metres long. The riding techniques are similar to speedway but all grass track meetings have a number of classes and many include sidecars.

Sidecar racing is very popular because the action on the track is always fast and furious. The passenger has a particularly difficult job as he transfers his weight around the sidecar to assist the driver to get not only the best racing line but also maximum drive for the back wheel.

British Grass Track riders take part in both the European Grass Track Championship and the World Long Track Championships. In the world Long Track Championship the racing surface can be grass, sand or shale and the circuits can be up to 1000 metres long. Championship events are held in France, Holland, Germany and Britain and at the Continental meetings there are often large crowds.

In Britain Youth riders can race at the age of six years under carefully controlled conditions. They can progress through higher age groups with gradual increases in the power of the motorcycles used. at 15 they can, if they wish, ride 350 solo machines with adults.

There is great camaraderie within the track racing fraternity, which makes it an enjoyable family sport to take part in, and to watch.

Grass Track Clubs

Lancashire Grass Track Junior Riders Club

Manchester Bantam Grass Track Racing Club

Rivington Barnstormers MCC