The Queensland Early Motorcycle Sports Club (QEMSC) is a sports club based in Brisbane that specialises in historic motorcycle racing. The club promotes road racing for motorcycles up to December 1990, with solo classes for different periods, including pre-1946 (Period 2, Vintage), pre-1963 (Period 3, Classic), pre-1973 (Period 4, Post Classic), pre-1983 (Period 5, Forgotten Era), and pre-1993 (Period 6, New Era). Sidecar classes are also offered, and some modern machines can participate depending on track limitations.
To be eligible for racing, motorcycles must be visually compatible with those manufactured in the specific period. While internal modifications are allowed, the machines must retain the period look. This allows for the use of modern materials and race compound tyres, resulting in fast bikes with engines capable of up to 13,000 RPM and compression ratios of up to 15:1. Race machines must be issued with an MA Historic log book to meet compliance requirements with national historic racing guidelines.
The club welcomes a variety of motorcycles, ranging from standard road bikes to machines with internal modifications to enhance performance and handling. The focus of historic racing is on being where you want to be and fitting into a class of racing that suits you. It offers the opportunity for enthusiasts to work on and develop their bikes, unlike most modern racing categories.
For those interested in getting started in historic racing, it is recommended to talk to people already involved in the club to gather information on the types of machines most suited to historic racing. Considerations such as availability of parts, cost, modifications for racing, and expected longevity should be taken into account when selecting a suitable bike. The club's President, Peter Searle, can be contacted for more information.
The club holds its meetings every second Tuesday of the month at Skinny's Social Garage in Bowen Hills, Brisbane. The meetings start at 7:00 PM, but many members gather earlier to socialise and enjoy a chat and drink before the meeting.
Overall, the Queensland Early Motorcycle Sports Club provides an exciting platform for motorcycle enthusiasts to engage in historic racing, offering the opportunity to showcase their mechanical prowess and enjoy the thrill of racing on well-maintained and visually authentic machines from the past.