Sidecars offer a parallel world of motorcycle motorsports. Sidecars compete in road racing, circle track racing, even motocross type racing. The most common type of sidecar racing is road racing. These machines have evolved from traditional motorcycle/sidecar rigs to highly specialized vehicle resembling prototype sportscar racers. Initially sidecars were based on traditional racing bikes that had a custom aerodynamic car attached at the side. By the seventies sidecars had taken on an completely new design that put the rider behind the engine (rather than on top), the rear tires became automotivel like slicks, and wheels used hub center type steering.
Above: an example of a traditional layout. Below: an example of a modern layout
Sidecar racing was originally part of FIM's grand prix racing. The Sidecar Championship was one of the original classes in 1949 when grand prix racing began. Norton's Manx was a popular platform for sidecars, then BMW's R50/2 dominated the series for much of the fifties and sixties. Eventually sidecars became more specalized and custom built chassis using GP bike engines, such as Yamaha's TZ500, became the dominate force.
In 1981 to make sure that sidecars didn't evolve into prototype cars, rule were made declaring vehicles must be driven by one rear wheel, steered by one front wheel, be steered with use of handle bars, and have an active passenger. The passengers (refered to as "monkeys") are active by leaning into the turns, which looks spectacular. Around 1998 sidecar racing moved from 500cc two strokes (similar to the top teir GP bike at the time) to 1000cc four strokes (similar to World Super Bikes). In 2001 the series name was changed to Superside.
That's Formula One type side cars. Formula Two is another class that requires steel tube frames and motorcycle type forks. In addition Formula Two bikes are limited to 350cc two strokes or 600cc four strokes.
Here's some Formula Two at the Isle of Man TT
TT Side Car Racing - The best free videos are right here
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