Hello everyone,
Like most people in England, we are pleased to see the Government’s Roadmap that should allow us to start to return towards pre-covid normality. However, an element of caution is definitely needed. As we know all too well, planning is one thing, delivering is another. Each step on the Roadmap requires successful performance against 4 tests. One
critical point is that Step 4 could potentially be implemented before the general public are vaccinated. Clearly, this is a risk which needs to be considered.

As far as racing is concerned, we have nothing currently planned for 2021. Bearing in mind, we normally have a complete events calendar in place 3 months before the start of each new season, this presents a significant challenge. We can start to provisionally plan some events. Initially, we will focus on a limited number of sprint events from the end of June onwards. The 6hr endurance race will be discussed once the dust settles and we have a better understanding of what we can and cannot legally do.

Membership fees will remain on hold for now. Assuming we can restart racing in late June, then fees will become due one month before. If the Roadmap is delayed, then membership fees will also be delayed accordingly.

An update on engines. We have been looking at engine options for some time and are finally in a position to share our conclusions. The vertical-crank single cylinder engine option is a bottleneck. We see lots of engines in the 150-200cc range but consider these to be too small for our needs. Loncin have stopped making their LC1P88-1 which already makes these very difficult to find. Honda continue to reduce their engine range while the parent company of Briggs & Stratton are in financial trouble. All of which, severely limits the options available.

We plan to update the handbook for 2022, with the following wording:
All engines must be air-cooled and lawn mower engines by original design.
Engine options are limited to the following:
Briggs & Stratton 28 series single cylinder (side valve only)
Briggs & Stratton 30 series Vanguard v-twin (479cc 16hp)
Loncin LC1P88-1
Otherwise, engines are limited to 390cc

Additionally, we plan to remove any wording related to use of standard exhausts.

The idea behind the above is to improve the show, increase the engine options and take advantage of the second-hand engine market. You will note that the 360cc limit is replaced with a 390cc limit.

2021 will be a transition year, where we will allow the above engines. However, you must be compliant to 2020 rules to win any NWLMRA championships.

As ever, please check with a committee member before buying an engine if you are unsure.

In the meantime, while we will work on the 2021 Events Calendar, please be vigilant and take care. The next update will follow in April or May once the Roadmap planning is clearer and we have an Events Calendar to share.