Japanese autorace motorcycling

[DrJ]

So what's the deal with this obscure form of racing? Looks like dirt track racing on asphalt. Saw this article today about a woman who was recently killed in a practice run. If this isn't badass, I don't know what is.

http://www.majiroxnews.com/2012/01/17/motorcycle-racer-hiromi-sakai-dies-during-practice-run/

 

[djelliott]

Looks like roller derby on motorcycles.

 

[HerrDeacon]

Its the first I've heard of it, but the bikes look pretty wild. From the little bit I've been able to find, I don't even think they have brakes. Just a chain link fence around the track too.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yLvXBrtrVds

 

[Staffy]

I've managed to find a couple too. This first one has a good look at the bikes.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8raVs_yh3EI

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=COxDLZxKfZc&feature=related

Sus out how close they get!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1yW4XN_PRQM&feature=related

 

[Basement rat]

reminds me of horse racing.

 

[Staffy]

I was thinking the same thing.

 

[djelliott]

They look like Power Rangers.

 

[SquadraCorse]

Looks like Keirin riders on a velodrome. I imagine they bet on them the same way.

 

[bbillington]

Looks like Keirin riders on a velodrome. I imagine they bet on them the same way.

exactly what I was thinking. lots of old, chain smoking dudes

 

[DrJ]

I dig the looks of these bikes, they look almost streetable.

 

[Staffy]

...almost