T.T. TIT-BITS.

T. T. TIT-BITS.

The Rex-Acme machines for the Junior and Lightweight races are almost identical with those used last year, which is not surprising considering the remarkable success that attended Handley’s efforts. For the Senior race, however, a most interesting machine has been evolved, fitted with an entirely new design of twin Blackburne engine. This machine will, of course, be ridden by W. L. Handley and its performance will be watched with great interest, as for some years the Blackburne concern have abstained from contesting the 500 C.C. class.

Two other firms whose names are not usually associated with the half-litre class are the Cotton and the New Gerrard. This year C. W. Johnston and J. A. Porter are riding machines of these respective makes with 500 c.c. engines. It is more than likely that both will be using the new twin Blackburne as fitted to Handley’s Rex-Acme.

We have long ago ceased to be surprised at any machine emanating from the Zenith works at Hampton Court, since it is well known that F. W. Barnes delights to cater for the individual requirements of racing enthusiasts. The 348 c.c. Zenith-hater-Lea, however, is bound to cause some slight stir. The Zenith frame is renowned for its steering, and if Marchant is observed to even approach within a few yards of the engine, it can safely be prophesied that L. P. Driscoll will have one of the fastest machines in the races.

Driscoll, too, seems full of confidence, as he is pitting his 350 c.c. machine against the Senior giants, besides racing in the Junior event.

Manufacturers as a whole are exhibiting a growing tendency to enter machines in the T.T. closely resembling their production sports models, or perhaps it would be more accurate to say that T.T. machines are now more freely marketed than before.

The Norton, of course, is the outstanding example of this policy, while Douglas, Sunbeam and A. J.S. machines each year resemble more closely the standard products of these factories. Unfortunately, however, in spite of this tendency, the T.T. does not constitute a very accurate guide to the purchaser, as although design may be standard, special materials and extra accurate fitting may enable a mediocre machine to perform wonders.