Engines roar as bikes slow before they accelerate again. This is the Gooseneck. An acute uphill right-hand bend. It sits on the Snaefell Mountain Course. This course is used for the famous TT motorcycle races. The Gooseneck is between the 25th and 26th Milestone markers. These mark the 37-mile circuit from the TT Grandstand startline.
The Gooseneck is on the A18 Snaefell Mountain Road. It is a main two-way road. It runs from Ramsey to Douglas. A minor side-road, the D28 Hibernia Road, joins it. This is in the parish of Maughold.
Since 1911 the Snaefell Mountain Course has been used for the TT. From 1923 it hosted the Manx Grand Prix races. The Gooseneck was part of earlier courses. These were the Highland Course and the Four Inch Course. They were used for car races between 1904 and 1922.
Imagine standing here. You see the end of the tree-line. You see the start of the Mountain section. It’s 550 feet above sea level. The Gooseneck is a popular spot. Spectators gather to watch the races. TT riders get intermediate race timings. Their back-up crews signal from here. It is one of the few spots where bikes slow enough to read the boards. Professional photographers and film crews love this spot too.
The Gooseneck sits among open moorland. Uncultivated grazing land surrounds it. This is Park Mooar, the Rhowin, and North Barrule. They are in the Northern Uplands of the Isle of Man.
The Isle of Man Ramsey Courier mentioned the Gooseneck. In 1914 it reported a motor car smash. It called the Gooseneck an awkward bend. It noted many spills happened there.
The Gooseneck lets spectators get very close to the bikes. Racers are at medium speed here. But they seem faster because you are so close. Visiting motorcyclists also enjoy the Gooseneck. During race season, traffic flows one-way. There is no speed limit through the Gooseneck.
Marshals are essential here. They ensure safety during races. The minimum number of marshals is always present at the Gooseneck. To reach the Gooseneck, go through Ramsey. Look for the 25th Milestone at Tower Bends. The Gooseneck is a tight right-hand corner. It leads to the open mountain. You can park in the field behind the Gooseneck. Food and refreshments are often available. When roads close, you can access it via the Hibernia Road. This road connects the Laxey A2 to the Ramsey coast road.
The Isle of Man TT is a thrilling race. It challenges riders with winding roads and mountains. It embodies speed and courage. Passing through the Gooseneck riders are going about 50mph in 2nd gear.
The Gooseneck. A place where history, skill, and daring converge. A must-see for any TT enthusiast.