not sure i'd pick those two as examples of safe races, people get really badly hurt in both. probably more regularly than in alleycats, although i don't have any data to back that up. but your point, that danger is a huge defining aspect of alleycats, is definitely right.

it's a weird dichotomy, bike riding can be so peaceful and relaxing. but even friendly competition usually means jumping headfirst into a situation where you can really get seriously hurt, or worse. unfortunately the middle ground is often very hard to find.