John Hartle

JOHN HARTLE d1968. English professional road racer who competed in national, international and Grand Prix motorcycle events. He rode for the works Norton team during the 1955 season and again in 1956 in what would be factory team's last year in Grand Prix racing, returning to ride for Eric Bowers in 1957. MV Agusta signed him in 1958 at the urging of John Surtees. He ended the season as runner-up to Surtees in the 500 and 350 classes. In 1960 he won his first Isle of Man TT race and the Junior TT event. After being released by MV Agusta, he then rode for Geoff Duke's privateer Gilera team, alongside Derek Minter. He was killed at Olivers Mount Scarborough aged 34 on August 31st 1968