The UK Isle of Man TT is one of the most anticipated races of the year and this year is no exception. The race first occurred in 1907 on the original St. Johns route, however, in 1911 it was re-routed to the present 37-3/4-mile Mountain Course. It was in 1911 that the Indian Motorcycle won the race, and now, in 2011, the 100 Year Anniversary of the Isle of Man TT, Dave Roper, the first American to ever win the TT, will ride a replica of the 1911 Isle of Man Indian racer in the exhibition Lap of Honor.

Peter Gagan, owner of the replica bike, says “the bike Roper will ride is a faithful replica of the bikes Indian raced at the Isle 100 years ago. The engine in Gagan’s bike is an authentic IOM race engine, a special 580cc version of Indian’s 633cc ‘little twin.’ Rules for the 1911 race limited V-twins to 585cc and singles to 500cc” according to motorcycle classics.

This Lap of Honor is a two-fold commemoration, celebrating the Indian as the the only American made motorcycle to win the Isle Of Man TT and Dave Roper, the first American to win the TT in 1984.

For further information you can check Ed Youngbloods Blog.