Selected from the BP Video Library, we present three action-packed films from an extraordinary period of motorcycle road racing as legends like John Surtees, Bob McIntyre, Mike Hailwood, Bill Lomas, Gary Hocking, John Hartle and Dickie Dale do battle around Europe.
First, we have The Ulster Grand Prix 1955, the full story of a thrilling dice for victory at the famous Dundrod course. The black-and-white footage charts the dramatic 500cc race, as McIntyre, Surtees, Dale, Hartell and more do battle, and Lomas secures an unlikely but popular victory. The story of the race was the fight between Norton and the Moto Guzzi, and the essential role pit stops and reliability would play in the outcome of the famous showdown. Notably, this archive footage includes limited by fascinating on-board footage from during the race, a rare view of racing from more than five decades ago.
We take a step forward to 1959 for our second film, Grand Prix de France. The colour footage, and the vocal talents of Raymond Baxter, bring us all the action from both the 350cc and 500cc races at the new and challenging Clermont-Ferrand circuit as Norton, AJS, MV Agusta do battle, and Surtees emerges as the dominate power in both classes. While the motorcycle racing is first-rate, this film also includes the rare treat of classic World Championship sidecar racing, the thundering outfits battling on the twisting Clermont-Ferrand track is wonderful to see and hear.
Originally made as a guide to becoming a motorcycle Grand Prix racer, the final film, The Right Line, is a treasure trove of archive gems for all motorcycling enthusiasts. Narrated by Isle of Man TT winner and respected race commentator Graham Walker, the colour film charts a biking career from trials to Grand Prix via motocross and club racing. While some of the advice may be a bit out of date, the footage from throughout 1960 is filled with rare opportunities to see some classic action. We enjoy highights from the Scottish Six Day Trial, motocross Grand Prix racing at HawkstonePark, club racing at Cadwell Park, the Junior TT in the Isle of Man and, finally, the gripping German GP at the Solitude circuit.
However, for many enthusiasts the most enthralling footage shows the great Bob Mac testing at Oulton Park, when we enjoy the rare opportunity to ride on-board with McIntyre, seeing a master at work and watching one of the finest riders ever doing what he did best – you will want to share this experience again and again.
Please note some of the footage featured in this title was previously released on the Terrific Stuff DVD 'Tribute to Bob McIntyre'.
"Really got the old blood stirring, Happy Memories" A, Kirkham. Liverpool