The specification of tracks used for all 1000cc Grass Track Sidecar races will be revised in 2026, the Auto-Cycle Union (ACU) has confirmed.
The changes come after a detailed review by the ACU’s Track Racing Working Group and are designed to ensure Grass Track circuits reflect the demands of modern 1000cc Sidecar competition, while supporting consistent standards across all UK tracks.
The most significant revision concerns the width of tracks. From 2026, the minimum width of tracks used for Grass Track Sidecar events will be 20 metres throughout – on both straights and bends. This replaces the previous variation between straights and corners.
Circuit length parameters will also be amended. The recommended maximum length will be reduced from 700 metres to 600 metres, measured one metre on the ‘track side’ of the inside track markers.
Tracks exceeding 600 metres will require prior written approval from the Track Racing Working Group before Supplementary Regulations are issued.
The depth of 'run-off' areas on the outside of tracks will also increase, with dimensions rising from six to ten metres on the straights and from ten to 12 metres on the bends.
Requirements for layout, surfacing and safety infrastructure remain clear. Tracks must comprise of two straights joined by two semi-circles on level ground.
Banking must not exceed 5% on the straights or 10% in the bends. The track surface must be firm, level turf, with appropriate track maintenance equipment available throughout events. Safety fencing must meet minimum height standards.
The maximum grid for 1000cc Sidecars will remain at six outfits, aligned with the 20-metre minimum width requirement and the increased depth of 'run-off' areas. A recent proposal to reduce grid sizes to five outfits is no longer required.
As the national governing body of motorcycle sport in the UK, it is the ACU’s responsibility to provide a clear, consistent framework that reflects the way 1000cc Grass Track Sidecar racing is developing. A newly formed 1000cc Sidecar working group will consider other aspects of the discipline during the course of the year.
These updated track specifications give organisers important guidance and competitors the space they need to race effectively – while also maintaining the established character of the discipline.
Detailed guidance will be issued to clubs in advance of the 2026 season to support the full implementation of the revised standards.