1920 board track racing

www.jockeyjournal.com/?p=235

As a small boy in the late 20's and early 30's I was well aware of this type of racing, having several uncle's who did this sort of thing.
It is interesting to note that these tracks were constructed of 2x4's on edge. Look at the track and think about the number of 2x4's needed. The bikes did not have starters or kick start and no brakes. I remember being told that some ran wide open, no throtle. I once asked my uncle how they stopped, He said they just threw the bike sideways and slide to a stop. Also, note the lack of protective clothing and imagine sliding on 2x4's on edge. A lot of splinters??
Harry

Never saw it myself, but I have read a lot about it.

In the UK (and EU I believe) they still race bikes with no brakes, but it's called Speedway or Grass Track racing. And apparently it's still rather popular there.

www.sidecarspeedway.com/

no kick starters or brakes but they still run headlights? :huh:

Nice post OKC_Kent!

There are a few more vids like this on YouTube, but not as nicely filmed as this. Also Youtube shows related videos and there are some videos of running board track racers that are restored or pulled just pulled from a barn somewhere. Pretty cool stuff, these older bikes.
Really nothing more than an engine stuffed inside a bicycle frame.