Since TT2009 thepeoplesbike.com have been inviting fans to become part of the team and add an extra dimension to their TT experience.
For a payment of £50 individuals will have a 40mm photo printed on the side of the bike, receive a unique sponsors only t-shirt, get access to the paddock and team awnings, take part in a grid walk with a team pass and receive an invitation to a sponsors gathering.
As team founder Mark Cubbon explained:
“During the TT fortnight every bike will require approximately £2,000 of tyres and a minimum of £700 of fuel, plus chains, brake pads and other consumables. This is a unique way for us to cover our costs and at the same time give TT fans the chance to really get close to the event.”
The team, now in its fourth year, has been responsible for launching the TT careers of Steve Mercer and Stephen Thompson. They will again be backing Dan Hegarty who made his TT Races debut for the Manx based outfit last year.
Unfortunately Dan arrived to tackle the mountain course in 2011 carrying a very painful and restrictive arm injury following a crash at Thruxton during a BSB round. He nevertheless rode steadily to finish 32nd in the Dainese Superbike Race and performed very credibly in the two Monster Energy Supersport Races finishing 26th in Race 1 and improving to 24th in the second race. However, he retired after four laps of the PokerStars Senior race with a delaminating rear tyre. He has a fastest lap of 118.430 on the Mountain Course.
Mark Cubbon is excited to have Dan back:
"As a team we believe Dan has the talent to progress into a great Road Racer. TT 2011 was a very frustrating year for him because of his arm injury, but now fully fit Dan is leading the British Thundersport series and excited about returning to the mountain course with the team."
As for Dan himself TT2011 was a life changing experience. He commented:
"You think you know what motorcycle racing is about. But then you ride the mountain course and you realise you have only been playing at it on short circuits. It becomes a new life challenge that’s the focus of your year"
If you would like to be involved with thepeoplesbike at TT 2012 you can sign up on their website or follow Dan and the team on Facebook and Twitter.
