TO BE honest, when we're watching terrifying wheelies, we're usually sat behind the handlebars. But there's a much safer way to spectate upon said stunts - get along to the Motorcycle Wheelie World Championships this weekend at Elvington Airfield in North Yorkshire.
The Straightliners event is aimed at finding the rider who can manage the fastest wheelie over a kilometre. Judges watch the front wheel to check it stays off the deck over the measured distance, and speed lights measure the average speed over the 1,000 metres. Last year's winner was Ted Brady from Ireland, who managed 217mph - erk!
It's a fun event, with an open paddock and loads of amazing bikes to check out. Most are obviously massively powerful turbocharged beasties, with 500bhp a not-unusual output.
The event kicks off at 10.30am on Saturday the 18th August, till 7pm on Sunday 19th. It's at Elvington Airfield, an ex-RAF base with a massive runway: Elvington Airfield, Halifax Way, Elvington, North Yorkshire, YO41 4AU.
More info at the Straightliners' Facebook page HERE.
