2010 Goodwood Festival of Speed

The Goodwood Festival of Speed is one of the world's premier automotive events for both cars and motorcycles, held during the British spring to showcase some of the world's most desirable vehicles.

The 2010 event runs from July 2-4, and is gearing up for a record number of famous motorcycles and riders, including the 250hp Icon Sheene ultra bike, the ex-Phil Read 1974 MV Agusta 500/4, and even the ex-Loris Capirossi Ducati GP5 Desmosedicirace bike.

This year's theme at Goodwood in the UK is Viva Veloce, or the Passion for Speed, so it was only natural that the Superbike World Championship's predecessor, Formula 750, would be one of focal points of this year's event.

The late Barry Sheene won the Formula 750 championship in 1973, and organisers are expecting a range of motorcycles from the series, such as the ex-Randy Mamola Yamaha TZ750, plus the the Rouen-winning Triumph Trident of Ron Chandler and the ex-Patrick Pons TZ750 Sonauto.

Arguably the world's most expensive and powerful road-going motorcycle, the Icon Sheene, will be make its debut at Goodwood, ridden by Barry Sheene's son Freddie. A host of other motorcycle luminaries will be in attendance, such as moto trials champion and all-round freak Dougie Lampkin, 15-time world champion Giacomo Agostini, and a number of world superbike riders.

With more famous motorcycles and riders than ever before, including a number of Red Bull X-Fighters freestyle motocross riders putting on an impromptu show at the nearby cricket grounds, the 2010 Goodwood Festival of Speed is shaping up to be a must-see event.

If you happen to be in Old Blighty in late June or early July, it's an event not to miss. For more details and ticketing info, check out the official website, Goodwood.com.