Aussie historics head to WA

November 20, 2008

An event which is akin to a pilgrimage for many will be held at Perth's Barbagallo Raceway this weekend: the Australian Historic Road Race Championship.

Riders will compete in a variety of classes over four 'periods' -- motorcycles manufactured between 1920 and 1980.

A number of former and present champions will compete at the challenging Barbagallo layout, including multiple Australian Superbike champion Rob Phillis, who will attempt to win the Period 5 (1973-1980) Unlimited crown for the second time in three years, and recently crowned world Superstock cup winner Brendan Roberts, who has set his sights on wresting the Period 3 (1946-1962) 500cc crown from New Zealander Dave Cole.

As always, the historic title will showcase a rich array of machinery from the 20th century, including such iconic names as Velocette, Douglas, Ariel, Norton, BSA, HRD, Vincent, Laverda, Matchless, Gilera, Bultaco, Morbidelli and Ducati.

And the Japanese bikes will also be well represented, mostly in the Period 4 (1963-1972) and Period 5 classes.

The oldest machine in action will be a 1930 500cc Ariel in the hands of local rider Edward Preston.

About 170 solo machines, a huge number from the east coast, will compete, as well as 16 sidecars.

For more information on the championship, click here.

What are the specific Periods?
Period 1 -- Veteran -- Up to 31st December 1919
Period 2 -- Vintage -- 1st January 1920 to 31st December 1945
Period 3 -- Classic -- 1st January 1946 to 31st December 1962
Period 4 -- Post Classic -- 1st January 1963 to 31st December 1972
Period 5 -- Forgotten Era -- 1st January 1973 to 31st December 1980.

What are the classes?
Ultra lightweight solo -- Up to 125cc
Lightweight solo -- 132-250cc
Junior solo -- 263-350cc
Senior solo - 368-500cc
Unlimited solo - 526-1300cc
Sidecar -- up to 1300cc