Motor cyclists prepare for the ultimate test in Isle of Man

LONDON, June 1 (Xinhua) -- The roar of motor cycling engines echoed across the tranquil Isle of Man on Friday as competitors made last minute preparations to take on one of the world's toughest race circuits.

What makes the TT so exciting for riders as well as spectators is that the racing circuit takes place on the island's road network, closed off to general traffic during the tournament,

The roads that make up the Snaefell Mountain Course span more than 60 kilometers, when the fastest machine reach speeds in excess of 320 km/h, but the tough course, with its twists, turns and hairpin bends, comes at a cost.

This year's TT has already claimed its first victim with local hero Dan Kneen, 30, sustaining fatal injuries during the Superbike qualifying session. Last year three riders were killed bringing to more than 250 the number fatally injured since the event started in the early 1900s.

During the TT event the island's resident population of just over 83,000 grows by more than 50 percent with around 45,000 enthusiasts from across the world arriving by air and sea. Most of the visitors will live in pop-up camping sites during their stay.

Next week, at the height of the racing program, Queen Elizabeth's grandson, Prince William the Duke of Cambridge, will visit the TT to watch the racing and meet competitors. Prince William will visit the TT Grandstand in Douglas and watch the final stages of the Supersport race for 600cc machines. Enditem