Grand Prix 1956
This documentary reviews three classic motorcycle battles from 1956. During this exhilarating season the Sidecar TT, Senior TT and Ulster Grand Prix races were captured in colour, complete with unique commentary and soundtrack from the era.
Sidecar TT
Scores of riders gathered at the 14 mile Clypse Course for a classic en-masse start, marking the beginning of a close-run sidecar race. During the event the BMW team of Hillebrand, Schneider and Noll were challenged by the cream of Britain's charioteers for podium honours.
Senior TT
John Surtees, riding an MV Agusta, was the favourite to win his first Senior TT event in 1956 - a goal he managed after beating other riders on BMW, Norton and Matchless machines. Surtees also beat the Moto Guzzi team of Bill Lomas, Dickie Dale and Ken Kavanagh, who had hoped to offset the MV's superior power by attempting, unsuccessfully, to finish the race without a fuel stop!
Ulster Grand Prix
The 7.4 mile Dundrod circuit of the Ulster Grand Prix in Belfast hosted a mix of works and private riders, and this short documentary has highlights of the popular 350cc and 500cc events.
Other great riders of the era including Goeff Duke, Bob McIntyre, Bob Brown and Walter Zeller appear in Grand prix 1956, entertaining the crowd and chasing road race records. |