Race numbers - a bitch...

**MSTRS:Me** · 20th June 2011, 09:50

Transponders do not replace physical numbers.

On behalf of all the hard-working volunteers, especially the trackside marshals...
SORT YOUR FERKIN NUMBERS OUT

We know that many modern bikes do pose a problem when it comes to fitting numbers that comply with the rule book. Said rule book is proving to be impossible to download from MNZ's website, so I can't find the latest approved size. As I recall it, the numbers themselves are supposed to be 150mm high (but I can't find this on their .pdf anymore. What I can find is this -

Number Boards
Size: Minimum width 285mm, minimum height 235mm, oval or
rectangular in shape.
Placement: 3 number boards to be affixed or placed upon the motorcycle,
in colours required for the class as follows:
Front: Facing forwards, with not more than 30 degrees forwards from
vertical.
Sides: One either side of the motorcycle in a position clearly visible
when the rider (and passenger for sidecars) is seated in their
usual riding position.
In a place on separate boards, a space of equivalent size and shape can be on
the bodywork or streamlining.
Figures all classes:
Figures must be clearly legible and both numbers and
backgrounds must be in a non-gloss finish
A plain form of figure shall be used.

Anyway, in recent times there is an increasing number of riders whose bikes are so far away from these requirements, and whose number style, size, position (if they even exist at all) are such that us poor bunnies trackside cannot identify some bikes when required. This can be to report a problem with a bike, or a particularly naughty infringement ontrack. For the start/finish peoples, it can be as simple as putting out the white flag FOR THE CORRECT BIKE! The electronic equipment might tell us who is in front, but not until they've gone past. Or the screen often goes dead for long periods, meaning the old manual system (eyes) is critical.

Some of you may even be having a laugh, at our expense (See attached. That does not 67 make, eh Luke?)

So come on, guys. Do us all a favour and sort it out. The time is rapidly approaching when the officials may refuse you entry to the track if your numbers can't be clearly read.

**MSTRS:Me** · 20th June 2011, 10:10

On a lighter note, the racing yesterday was superb. Under trying conditions, you guys and guyesses put on a great show.
And the sportsmanship shown by that rider in the Superlight/Streetstock race was gold medal. You allowed Mihi to finish her first race ever, and get a chequered flag.
WELL DONE, SIR!!!!

**CHOPPA** · 20th June 2011, 11:40

Maybe a standardised font would be appropriate? Numbers on the bikes in oz look a bit gay but they are clearly visable

**Deano** · 20th June 2011, 11:46

I told Luke it was a silly idea !!

**MSTRS:Me** · 20th June 2011, 12:05

Originally Posted by CHOPPA

Maybe a standardised font would be appropriate? Numbers on the bikes in oz look a bit gay but they are clearly visable

We-e-ll...

I don't think it needs to be too regimented. Just use some common sense and have a thought towards those that need to read a number at a distance and/or when it's moving at high speed.
The attached shows highly suitable on the left, not so much on the right.
Although it's plain block the style of the 1 on the top right means it could be mistaken for 723, the second one could be mistaken for 128, and the others are too ornate or thin or both.

**Shaun** · 20th June 2011, 12:06

Originally Posted by CHOPPA

Maybe a standardised font would be appropriate? Numbers on the bikes in oz look a bit gay but they are clearly visable

What, you mean like Shirrifs bike no;s "GAY"

**Mental Trousers** · 20th June 2011, 12:23

If people don't watch out numbers will end up heavily regulated and enforced. Should MNZ etc get sufficiently pissed off I'm sure you'll see people not passing scrutineering because their numbers don't match the letter of the law.

If Scrutineers start using a tape measure on numbers and backgrounds racers will only have themselves to blame.

**MSTRS:Me** · 20th June 2011, 12:46

Yep. And no-one wants that.
Or god forbid....a return to actual number boards.

**Tony.OK** · 20th June 2011, 13:05

Originally Posted by Mental Trousers

If people don't watch out numbers will end up heavily regulated and enforced. Should MNZ etc get sufficiently pissed off I'm sure you'll see people not passing scrutineering because their numbers don't match the letter of the law.

If Scrutineers start using a tape measure on numbers and backgrounds racers will only have themselves to blame.

Wasn't there a thread or post about #'s being checked at the HD rnd of Nats?

Seems odd the rules have disappeared, it was stated when I got into it that figure font must be "Ariel" and figures must be 25mm thick. And the figures had to be a certain height too.....can't remember now though, 150mm or so.

The way the rules are now it only mentions the "number board" size, not the figures, only that figures must be legible.........thats open to differing opinions ain't it? At what distance, angle etc?

**MSTRS:Me** · 20th June 2011, 13:14

Originally Posted by Tony.OK

Wasn't there a thread or post about #'s being checked at the HD rnd of Nats?

Seems odd the rules have disappeared, it was stated when I got into it that figure font must be "Ariel" and figures must be 25mm thick. And the figures had to be a certain height too.....can't remember now though, 150mm or so.

The way the rules are now it only mentions the "number board" size, not the figures, only that figures must be legible.........thats open to differing opinions ain't it? At what distance, angle etc?

That's the one in my pic top right...not the best block font to use.
I think I'm like the other 'officials'...we don't mind what font/s are used, as long as it's easy to read.
And I'm sure we all want to keep it that way.