Tour de TT

The Tour de TT (also called TT Route) is an annual event in the province of Drenthe that attracts cycling and motorcycling enthusiasts. This unique event combines sport and history, taking participants along the original circuits of the TT races that took place in the region almost a century ago. The Tour de TT is both a cycling route and a motorcycle route, which offers participants the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful Drenthe nature and the rich history of the TT races.

Historical background

The origins of TT races in the Netherlands go back to 1925. The first TT, an abbreviation of Tourist Trophy, was organized by the Motor Club 'Assen en Omstreek'. This was made possible by the introduction of the new Motorcycle and Cycle Act in 1924, which made it possible to grant an exemption from the previously applicable competition ban. The first circuit was a triangular course of 28.4 kilometers that ran from Rolde to Borger, via Westdorp to Schoonloo, and from there via Grolloo back to Rolde. Despite the narrow and partly unpaved roads, this circuit was deemed suitable for the first TT race.

The cycle route

The historic TT cycle route, which covers a distance of 67 kilometers, largely follows the original circuits. The route starts in Rolde and follows the old roads that the first riders used in 1925. This offers cyclists the opportunity to experience what it was like to ride on these narrow and challenging roads. Important stops along the route include the Boomkroonpad in Drouwen and the Hunebed Center in Borger. The course has been carefully crafted to not only provide the sporting challenge, but also to highlight the rich history and natural beauty of the region.

The cycle route connects the two historic circuits: the original circuit from 1925 and the improved circuit that was in use from 1926 to 1954. This makes the tour not only a physical challenge, but also a journey through time, where participants can enjoy art objects from the Toyism movement, which have been placed along the route.

The motorcycle route

The Tour de TT also offers a 40-mile motorcycle route that takes riders along the same historic roads as the cycle route. The motorcycle route pays tribute to the old TT races and offers motorcyclists the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of the first TT riders. However, it is important to emphasize that the aim is not to match the speeds of the historical drivers. The route is intended as a tourist experience with several pit stops, where riders can enjoy the sights and rich history of the region.

Highlights along the route

Along the Tour de TT there are several cultural and historical sites worth visiting:

• Drents Museum in Assen: This museum offers stories about archaeology, art and history, and is a perfect place to learn more about the region.
• C+B Museum in Grolloo: This museum is dedicated to the blues band Cuby + Blizzards and offers an interesting insight into the musical history of the region.
• Dolmen Center in Borger: Here visitors can learn all about the prehistoric grave monuments that can be found in the region.
• Boomkroonpad in Drouwen: A walking path along the tops of the trees, which offers a unique perspective on Drenthe's nature.

In addition, various art objects have been placed along the route by the Toyism art movement, which add a playful and colorful element to the tour. Some of these works of art are 'Moto GP upside down' in Assen, 'Horsepower Mania' in Assen, and 'The Zeitgeist of Racing' in Rolde.

Economic and tourism impact

The Tour de TT has a significant economic and tourist impact on the Drenthe region. The event attracts thousands of participants and spectators every year, resulting in additional revenue for local businesses such as hotels, restaurants and shops. In addition, the Tour de TT contributes to the promotion of Drenthe as a tourist destination, which can lead to an increase in the number of visitors in the long term.

The Tour de TT is a unique event that combines sport, history and culture in a special way. Whether you choose the bicycle or motorcycle route, the Tour de TT offers an unforgettable experience through the picturesque landscape of Drenthe and along the historic circuits of the original TT races. The event is a perfect opportunity to discover the beauty of Drenthe and enjoy a rich historical heritage that still lives in the hearts of the participants and spectators.