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We're Not Sure How Isle of Man Racer Didn't Crash

Photo credit: Isle of Man TT / YouTube
Photo credit: Isle of Man TT / YouTube

From Road & Track

Ballagarery is one of the scariest corners on the Isle of Man TT circuit; riders actually call it "Ballascary." Famously, this is the spot where Guy Martin had a fiery crash in 2010, but it's claimed the lives of a number or riders over the years. Kawasaki racer James Hillier nearly had a huge accident there, but somehow, he managed to hold it.

We're honestly not sure how. Ballagarey, as the New York Times reports, is a blind corner that comes early on the circuit, critically, before tires are fully warmed up. Riders enter the turn in 5th gear at around 180 mph, before shooting down a two-mile straight.

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Hillier's rear wheel seems to lose grip before a small crest, getting the rear end unsettled. Both wheels come off the track over the crest, and when he lands, he's still fishtailing violently. Somehow, Hillier manages to bring the bike back in line and speed away.

This clip serves as a brief reminder of the dangers of the Isle of Man TT course. It's amazing that anyone is still allowed to race there.

via Digg

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