Star guests Trevor Nation and Brian Crighton will be at the Classic Bike Guide Winter Classic show in Newark on January 6-7, 2024, for all things Norton and more.
Nation and Crighton were a crucial part of the Norton resurgence in the late 1980s and early 90s culminating in both the 750cc Supercup Championship and the British F1 title.
Having emerged from the caretaker shed at Norton, Crighton evolved into the rotary genius that was part of the racing phenomenon, to which Nation contributed strongly to with wins in the proddie class on both 750cc and 1000cc machines. In doing so, the duo played a substantial part in the Norton team, which achieved its first win at Cadwell park in 1988 on the development bike, the RC588.
Show-goers will get to see these racing legends in action as they discuss their current projects and reminisce about their past glories together. Joining them will be two of the iconic John Player Special racing bikes that propelled Norton to great success back in the 1980’s and 90’s, with both guests on hand to fire up the bikes Nation once rode in the show’s very own fire up area.
Mortons Media Group’s Exhibitions manager Nick Mowbray said: “The team and I are absolutely delighted to have two of Norton’s former icons and two rotary machines joining them. Newark is always a great way to start the year, but this year we are delighted to be accompanied by two biking favourites and the machines they made famous.”
The Classic Bike Guide Winter Classic Show has become a staple in the motorcycle calendar, attracting people from all over the UK. Held at Newark Showground, over the first weekend in January, it offers a welcome respite from the hectic holiday season with hundreds of stunning classic machines on display.
Buy your tickets in advance to the Classic Bike Guide Winter Classic show and save £2 per ticket. For more information on the show or to buy tickets please go to www.newarkclassicbikeshow.com
HASLAM, Nation, Crighton; names known to all race fans, names synonymous with a golden age of racing, and names set to entertain on stage in just a few weeks.
The trio are among the star guests at the upcoming Bristol Classic Bike Show, set for February 25-26 at the Royal Bath and West Showground in Shepton Mallet, and if you want to hear what they have to say – as well as enjoy hundreds of other attractions at the show – then get your skates on to enjoy a special ticket discount price.
‘Rocket Ron’ Haslam is one of Britain’s most successful racers, winning two world titles, four British Championships and having raced in over 100 grands prix. He’s an Isle of Man TT race winner, claimed a record six Macau GP wins and has beaten the best in the world, names including Gardner, Sarron and Mamola. He’s also been a team mate to Freddie Spencer and Keven Schwantz to name just two.
Trevor Nation will forever be associated with the stunning John Player Special RCW588 Norton racing machines. Starting out in 1978, Nation soon made a mark and the following year won for the first time. A proper TT winner in the proddie class on both a 750cc and 1000cc machines, he also guested at three grands prix. He certainly earned his seat on the factory Norton team, getting their first win at Cadwell Park in 1988 on the development bike the RC588 – beating the likes of Whitham, Foggy, Spray and Morrison in the process.
‘Mr Rotary’, the legendary tuner, designer, and uber engineer Brian Crighton, will be joining Haslam and Nation on stage to talk all things rotary and of course, the bikes and the men who rode them. Crighton, a three-time British champ himself, was a service engineer at Norton in 1984 and a year later was promoted to R&D. It was there he spotted there was a real potential in the company’s 588cc air-cooled rotary. Determined to prove his point, and defying the management’s conventional approach, he worked in his free time from the caretaker’s shed… the rest, as they say, is racing history.
Nigel Hole, commercial director of the show’s organiser Mortons Media, said:
‘We’re absolutely delighted to have two legendary racers, one incredible engineer and four rotary machines live on stage to entertain our guests throughout the weekend. Bristol is always a highlight in our events calendar, but this year we are even more excited to bring something extra (John Player) special to the show!’
The union of the Norton bikes and the men who rode them – watched by thousands in person and millions on terrestrial TV – will enthuse both racing fans and motorcycle enthusiasts, and adds to a show which already has a great foundation with excellent autojumble stands, some of the UK’s best privately-owned classic motorcycles and a host of owners’ clubs to give it a real community feel.
The event also offers one of the earliest chances of the year for visitors to stock up on classic parts, spares, accessories and riding gear for the season ahead. It’s a popular date on the motorcycling event calendar, attended by more than 16,000 like-minded enthusiasts every year.
Discounted advance tickets are on sale for the show, with a one-day adult pass costing just £14.50. Tickets will also be available on the gate at £17 – youngsters aged 15 and under get free admission. Free parking is available on site.
THOUSANDS OF showgoers, including a Hollywood star, were out in the post-lockdown sunshine at the Stafford County Showground over the weekend of April 23 – 24 to celebrate all things motorbikes… and there was plenty to celebrate.
The International Classic MotorCycle Show always has loads to see and do, and this year was no different as the crowds packed in to see bikes, club stands, trade stands, world exclusives, book launches, live trails, firing-up area, Bonhams’ auction, the competition hall… and more special guests than you could shake a stick at!
Perhaps the most notable display was the world exclusive Mike Hailwood exhibit, featuring never-before-seen family memorabilia of the former champion. Guests were able to view these heirlooms, from his 1978 TT winner’s Dunlop cap through to his George Medal, awarded when Mike rescued Clay Regazzoni from his burning BRM at the South African Formula 1 GP. Talking of awards and winners, the class of 1978, which consisted of Alex George, Ian Richards, Phil Read and Chas Mortimer, were on stage across the weekend giving first-hand accounts of their racing careers and inside stories into the motorbike racing scene.
The Bonhams Auction was particularly nail biting with a very special ex-Reg Barton, Dick Knight, 1929 Brough Superior 996cc SS100 Alpine Grand Sport Sprint Special which sold for a staggering £220,000! And showgoers might also have even seen an A-list celebrity or two. Jason Momoa, best known as DC superhero Aquaman, was also there. Being a keen motorcycle enthusiast, Jason perused the show and examined the lots in the Bonhams Auction.
Event organiser Nick Mowbray said: “It was a brilliant weekend! We have received marvellous feedback from visitors and traders alike. The addition of the Hailwood display and the ‘Class of 78’ added something very special to a tried-and-tested format.”
Irishman Phillip McCallen (Honda) at Quarter Bridge: 1994 Formula One TT
TT legend Phillip McCallen will be guest of honour at the Classic Bike Guide Winter Classic Show in a new year treat for motorcycle fans.
The popular Irishman will be joining the crowds at Newark Showground on January 8-9 and be interviewed over the weekend by Lincolnshire racing star-turned-presenter and fellow TT winner, Steve Plater.
There’s even a chance to meet him!
Phillip McCallen is synonymous with Honda, road racing… and winning! He is without doubt one of the most gifted road racers of the modern age; 11 times a winner at Isle of Man TT, multiple winner at the North West 200 and the Ulster GP, winner of the Macau Grand Prix and British Supersport.
At the peak of his power ‘Supermac’ collected 1st place trophies at almost all road race meetings. In 1992 at the North West 200 McCallen had five race wins from six starts. At the 1996 Ulster GP he took five wins in one day and perhaps his crowning glory was winning four races out five at the Isle of Man TT, a record which stood unbroken for 14 years.
Supermac retired after nearly two decades of motorcycle racing in which he demonstrated a take-no-prisoners approach to his racing. Through the highs and lows of his career he became the poster boy for road racing fans the world over in one of the few golden ages of the sport.
COMPETITION! >> Advance ticket buyers have the chance to win one of four copies of Supermac – Phillip McCallen’s autobiography – with the opportunity to get them signed by the man himself at the show! Anyone who buys an advance ticket before January 3, 2021 will automatically be entered and notified shortly after this date. Terms and conditions apply.
Showgoers can expect to see the usual attractions that make this season opener a stand-out event. Motorcycle owners’ clubs will return with their impressive displays alongside a large indoor and outdoor trade and autojumble section, and a large collection of privately owned motorcycles will be on display. There will also be live firing-up sessions of a selection of bikes and scooters, leading on to the large and music-filled Scooter World and Custom Bike Halls.
Tickets for the event are on sale now at an early bird price of £10 until January 3.
Five Reasons Why You Need To Be At The Stafford Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show on 9-10th October 2021
SUMMER has come and passed…however, in the world of classic motorcycling it can only mean one thing – Stafford Classic Bike Show is just around the corner!
After a tough 18 months, show organiser Mortons Media Group shares its top five reasons why you need to be there!
1) Road Racing Royalty: Michael Dunlop!
Nineteen time TT winner Michael Dunlop is set to take centre stage during the course of the weekend, with opportunities for fans to take photographs, have Michael sign their merchandise and listen to interviews with fellow TT star Steve Plater. The Irishman will also be bringing two of his bikes to display on both Saturday and Sunday.
2) Joey Dunlop Bike Collection!
The Dunlop dynasty presence continues out into the halls with a fantastic display of machines ridden and owned by Michael’s late uncle and TT record holder, Joey.
The Joey Dunlop Foundation will be filling its stand with an incredible collection of Honda RC45s; including the original Honda 750 as ridden by Joey in the 1994 TT, where he achieved third place in both the Senior race and Formula 1 race. The charity, which was established in 2001, is also planning to bring the lap record-holding 1999 Jim Moodie Honda RC45 750, which he famously rode at 124.5mph!
Visitors can also expect to see a further collection of RC45s and CBR 600s as ridden by Ian Simpson, Michael Rutter and Steve Hislop in the Competition Hall.
3) Bonhams is back!
Bonhams returns to Stafford with another barnstorming two-day sale offering more than 300 collectors’ motorcycles including two ‘fresh to market’ important single-owner collections.
The Phil Morris Road Racing Collection of 24 machines is offered direct from the collection in Oswestry: a treasure trove – and one of the world’s largest collections – of motorcycles, leathers and trophies raced, worn and won by some of the most famous names on two wheels and dubbed ‘The Church’ by TT rider Rob Barber.
This landmark collection is led by no fewer than five MotoGP machines, the entire fleet from the Paul Bird Motorsport team which campaigned in the top-flight series from 2012 to 2014. All Aprilia machines, three are to full Moto GP prototype specification and include the number 1 and number 2 motorcycles from the 2014 season.
The second collection comprised more than 40 important motorcycles owned by the late acclaimed German film critic Hans Schifferle, led by a rare 1974 Ducati 750 SS; estimate £90,000 – £130,000.
Known for his work for Süddeutsche Zeitung as a film critic and essayist, Schifferle, who died last year, was also a motorcycle connoisseur, building up his collection over two decades.
Offering a range of motorcycles from sports bikes to café racers, the collection represents the great Italian, British and American marques, including MV Agusta, Vincent and Indian.
More than 130 lots of motorcycle spares and memorabilia will also be offered.
4) LIVE Music!
The show is making full use of the bandstand this year. As well as using it for interviewing Michael Dunlop, visitors can enjoy multiple sets from a couple of live bands in there too!
Catch Ignition live on Saturday for three half-hour sets at 11.30am, 12.30pm and 1.30pm. Ignition is a Staffordshire-based Rockabilly band aiming to replicate the Neo Rockabilly sound of the 1980s. It offers high tempo, hard hitting rock ‘n’ roll with a mix of classics from the 1950s through to the present day.
On Sunday, visitors can expect something completely different! The all-singing, all-dancing female close harmony duo The Daisy Belles will be recapturing the authentic sounds of The Andrews Sisters, live on the stage at 11.30am, 12.30pm and 1.30pm.
Showcasing a delightful mix of classic hits from the bygone years and popular modern songs with a unique twist, the girls have been dazzling audiences internationally with their intricate harmonies, cute vintage choreography and fun loving flare!
5) Bikes EVERYWHERE!
Saving the best ‘til last – Stafford really is all about the bikes… and this October promises to be no exception.
Lots of the clubs in particular will be celebrating some of their milestone anniversaries with an extra special collection on display for all to see.
The CBX Riders’ Club (UK) will be celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the CBX Pro-link, this being the third generation of the fantastic Honda six-cylinder CBX 1000. Honda reconfigured the CBX for 1981 as a sports touring bike, with fairing and side panniers. The rear suspension also changed from dual to mono shock, and saw the introduction of the progressive linkage system – hence the name Pro-Link! Visitors can find the club in one of the side halls at the show.
Plans are in place for a full return of all the much-loved aspects of the show including the wall of death, massive indoor and outdoor trade and autojumble and club stands. There’ll be bikes everywhere, live trials action and live music too, with no planned restrictions in place. More details can be found on the website: www.staffordclassicbikeshows.com
Tickets are on sale now at an early bird price of £13 until October 4. Visit www.staffordclassicbikeshows.com or call 01507 529529 to purchase.
NINETEEN times TT winner Michael Dunlop is set to take centre stage at the 2021 Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show on October 9-10.
Michael is the first rider to complete a lap of the most famous road racing course in the world in under 17 minutes, with an average speed of 134mph.
He is also the last member of the Dunlop quartet who have dominated the dangerous and thrilling scene of motorcycle road racing for more than 40 years. Despite losing his uncle Joey, father Robert and elder brother William through the love of the sport, Michael continues to race and is currently chasing his Uncle Joey’s world record of 26 Isle of Man TT wins.
One of Michael’s most famous wins – and probably one of the most remarkable chapters in the Dunlop story – came immediately after another family tragedy. Just hours after his father Robert’s death at the North West 200 in 2008, Michael and his brother William were out preparing their bikes for racing the next day. Despite protests from organisers, family and friends, Michael went out and won the North West 200 the following day. He suitably dedicated the win to his father and since then has firmly established himself as one of the greatest motorcycle road racers in the world.
Fans will be able to hear from the man himself as he chats to TT commentator and former champion Steve Plater throughout the weekend. Catch the pair live on stage and in the GP Paddock on both Saturday and Sunday, where there will be signing opportunities and Q&A sessions too.
Plans are in place for a full return of all the much-loved aspects of the show, including the multi-million-pound Bonhams Auction, wall of death, massive indoor and outdoor trade and autojumble and club stands. There’ll be bikes everywhere, live trials action and live music too. More details will follow and will be updated on our website:www.staffordclassicbikeshows.com
Tickets are on sale now at an early bird price of £13 until October 4. Visit www.staffordclassicbikeshows.com or call 01507 529529 to purchase.
Hagerty is best known as a classic vehicle insurer, but with a 600,000-member strong Drivers Club, a magazine with 1.9m readers, more than 1m monthly unique users visiting its Media site and 1.4m subscribers on YouTube, it is one of the world’s largest automotive lifestyle brands.
2021 has seen increased investment across all aspects of the Hagerty business, from content and events and data to client services, as Hagerty strengthens its global offering to the motoring enthusiast.
The latest announcement from Hagerty UK is a partnership with Maria Costello, the renowned motorcycle racer, and the only female rider from the sport to be awarded an MBE. The partnership will see Hagerty branding on Maria’s LCR Kawasaki F2 sidecar and Kawasaki ER6 Supertwin racing motorcycles throughout the 2021/22 season, which includes an appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Maria recently announced Vicky Cooke as her teammate in an all-female sidecar team for the 2021 racing season and beyond.
In addition, Maria will produce exciting content with the Hagerty media team, attend selected automotive events, and will take part in Hagerty’s successful online panel and seminar discussions.
A place in motorcycle racing history was secured when Maria was the first woman solo racer in the history of the Isle of Man motorcycle races to stand on the podium after finishing in third place at the 2005 Manx Grand Prix (ultra-lightweight category). Her legendary status on the island was maintained with a third-place finish in the 2016 Isle of Man Senior Classic TT, standing on the podium alongside race winner, and personal hero, John McGuinness – a 23 times TT winner. Maria has also secured a 12th place finish in the 2016 Isle of Man Lightweight TT and made history by being the first woman to race both a sidecar and a solo motorcycle at the 2019 TT.
Maria formerly held the female lap record at all three international road races, the Isle of Man TT, the Northwest 200 and the Ulster Grand Prix and remains the only woman to have held lap records at all three events.
Throughout her racing career, Maria has shown remarkable resilience and determination in the male dominated world of motorcycle racing, overcoming astonishing injuries – including 24 broken bones – to gain multiple podium finishes in real, public road racing.
Maria is also a previous Guinness World Record holder for being the fastest woman to lap the Isle of Man TT course at an average speed of 114.73mph, was voted BBC Northampton Sports Personality of the Year, became an animated character in a PlayStation game, was appointed as a stunt double for Reese Witherspoon and is a published author. In 2013 she founded ‘Woman on a Motorcycle’ – a community space where like-minded ladies can share experiences and ideas. Her pioneering women-only trackdays have also gone from strength to strength.
In 2018 Maria was made President of the TT Riders Association, the first woman to be inducted into this position in the charity’s 67-year history and is also an Ambassador for ex-F1 driver Susie Wolff’s ‘Dare to Be Different’ campaign to drive female talent. Maria also visits schools and communities to encourage young people to take part in sport.
Speaking of the partnership Lee Mathewson, Managing Director for Hagerty UK, said “Maria has a long history of challenging archetypes which is hugely inspiring. Hagerty wants to save the art of driving and riding and to keep the global automotive lifestyle alive for generations to come. To do that we need to celebrate those who are leaders in the field, allowing newcomers to feel inspired to join us. Maria fits perfectly with the ethos of Hagerty, and we are delighted to welcome her as a partner and to support her 2021 racing season.”
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As the bike industry moved into the eighties it was still riding the sales peak that started in the mid-seventies. The Government had finally plugged the loop hole that created the sports moped and while the Yamaha FS1E continued until 1985 it no longer had pedals and was limited to 30 miles an hour. Alongside the Fizzy, Yamaha launched the RD50 which had the same styling as the bigger RD machinery. The air-cooled RD machines were replaced by the liquid cooled 250 and 350LC twins which continued in the same head banging vein and further boosted sales and interest in biking.
Classic/Retro Feature @ Motorcycle Live Suzuki, having paid second fiddle to Yamaha in the 250cc class launched the GT250X7, and finally eclipsed the RD’s for performance although they never quite lived up to the hype of the “100 mph 250” that they were launched as. Examples of all of these bikes are on display in the Retro Zone.
Club racing in the eighties enjoyed a thriving single cylinder class structure for 500cc and 250cc machines. We have a 500cc Hagon Honda that was campaigned by Robin Riley, and a Maitland Racing 500cc Yamaha raced by Mick Palfreman.
Speedway and Grass Track racing thrived in the UK following their introduction from Australia in 1928 and by 1939 over 10 million people a year were watching events at 29 tracks nationwide. Don Godden was a multi European and National champion on the grass and he persuaded the Weslake company to develop a Speedway motor to challenge the East European ESO and Jawa machines. Peter Collins won the World Championship on a Weslake in the mid eighties, by which time Godden had decide to make his own engine and complete machines, the GR500. Examples of both machines are on display.
Retro bikes which will be appearing at the show include:
SHOWGOERS were abuzz with news of a record breaking sale in the Bonhams auction as another bumper crowd went home happy following the now traditional spring motorcycle event at Staffordshire County Showground this past weekend.
The 34th Carole Nash International Classic MotorCycle Show hosted the annual Bonhams sale of vintage and collectors’ motorcycles in which a Brough Superior SS100 – once owned by George Brough himself – sold for a staggering £253,500.
Nick Mowbray, exhibition manager for the event, said: “We were delighted to see many above-estimate sales in the auction to round off a fantastic weekend of classic motorcycling.
“The sale of the star lot was supported by many other notable results and combined with the enthusiastic crowd that came through our gates, we are encouraged that the classic motorcycle market is alive and well.”
Along with the strong showing in the auction, one of the world’s largest gatherings of classic display machines didn’t disappoint with a stunning 1969 Indian Velocette claiming the much-coveted Best in Show award ahead of whole host of top-quality contenders.
James Robinson, editor of The Classic MotorCycle magazine, said: “The standards are always high at Stafford, but there were several entries that ensured 2014 lived up to expectations.
“Neil Radley’s Best in Show winner was a worthy one, and there were many other expert restorations and unusual finds that meant picking award winners was an unenviable task.
“There were many bikes that didn’t get recognition when they easily could have, and it speaks volumes for the current strength of the classic scene.”
One of the unusual machines referred to was a 1949 Moto Major, an Italian-made motorcycle entered by Alessandro Altinier, which is the only one of its kind and has never before been seen in the UK.
On a weekend which celebrated numerous ‘golden’ anniversaries, guest of honour John Surtees proved popular five decades on from his F1 world title win, with the thousands in attendance filling every available vantage point around the main stage to listen to his fascinating interviews with TT winner and TV commentator Steve Plater.
Surtees, now aged 80 and still the only man to have captured both motorcycle world championships and the F1 world crown, spoke about his fascinating career working for some of the most iconic names in motorsport history, as well as the work currently being undertaken by his charity, the Henry Surtees Foundation.
His appearance at Stafford kick-starts a year of events aimed at raising funds for the foundation, with the man himself explaining how the Carole Nash International Classic MotorCycle Show was a fitting place to start: “Seeing so many familiar faces here at Stafford and catching up with old friends, it feels like a homecoming of sorts.
Surtees’ relationship with event organiser Classic Bike Shows is a well-established one, having now been guest of honour at Stafford three times – another record he holds – as well as opening the company’s media centre in Lincolnshire just over a decade ago.
Across the showground, the newly-sponsored Putoline Classic Dirt Bike Experience was once again a hub of action, with off-road demos taking place regularly throughout the two days.
Classic Dirt Bike magazine editor, Tim Britton, said: “Our thanks to Putoline for sponsoring the Owd Codgers trails demos this year; they were as entertaining as ever.
“We had plenty of shiny exhibits inside the hall too, with a focus on the fact it’s now 50 years since Sammy Miller signed for Bultaco in a move that changed off-road sport for ever.”
Alongside the Bultaco celebrations, 2014 also sees the 50th anniversary of Jeff Smith’s first world championship win and several events throughout the year will mark the occasion, including the massive International Dirt Bike Show at Stoneleigh Park in October.
Traders and vendors enjoyed a successful weekend at Stafford too, as visitors came from far and wide to find the perfect part, piece or tool for their restoration or maintenance project.
“The international tagline in our show’s name is certainly warranted,” added exhibition manager Nick Mowbray.
“We welcome classic motorcycle enthusiasts, not just from all four corners of the UK, but also from Ireland, across mainland Europe and even further afield.”
Attention now turns to the remainder of the classic calendar, with Classic Bike Shows’ next stop at the Royal Highland Centre in Edinburgh for the Carole Nash Great Scottish Bike Show in August, followed by events in Netley Marsh in September and Stafford again in October.
SHOWGOERS were abuzz with news of a record breaking sale in the Bonhams auction as another bumper crowd went home happy following the now traditional spring motorcycle event at Staffordshire County Showground this past weekend.
The 34th Carole Nash International Classic MotorCycle Show hosted the annual Bonhams sale of vintage and collectors’ motorcycles in which a Brough Superior SS100 – once owned by George Brough himself – sold for a staggering £253,500.
Nick Mowbray, exhibition manager for the event, said: “We were delighted to see many above-estimate sales in the auction to round off a fantastic weekend of classic motorcycling.
“The sale of the star lot was supported by many other notable results and combined with the enthusiastic crowd that came through our gates, we are encouraged that the classic motorcycle market is alive and well.”
Along with the strong showing in the auction, one of the world’s largest gatherings of classic display machines didn’t disappoint with a stunning 1969 Indian Velocette claiming the much-coveted Best in Show award ahead of whole host of top-quality contenders.
James Robinson, editor of The Classic MotorCycle magazine, said: “The standards are always high at Stafford, but there were several entries that ensured 2014 lived up to expectations.
“Neil Radley’s Best in Show winner was a worthy one, and there were many other expert restorations and unusual finds that meant picking award winners was an unenviable task.
“There were many bikes that didn’t get recognition when they easily could have, and it speaks volumes for the current strength of the classic scene.”
One of the unusual machines referred to was a 1949 Moto Major, an Italian-made motorcycle entered by Alessandro Altinier, which is the only one of its kind and has never before been seen in the UK.
On a weekend which celebrated numerous ‘golden’ anniversaries, guest of honour John Surtees proved popular five decades on from his F1 world title win, with the thousands in attendance filling every available vantage point around the main stage to listen to his fascinating interviews with TT winner and TV commentator Steve Plater.
Surtees, now aged 80 and still the only man to have captured both motorcycle world championships and the F1 world crown, spoke about his fascinating career working for some of the most iconic names in motorsport history, as well as the work currently being undertaken by his charity, the Henry Surtees Foundation.
His appearance at Stafford kick-starts a year of events aimed at raising funds for the foundation, with the man himself explaining how the Carole Nash International Classic MotorCycle Show was a fitting place to start: “Seeing so many familiar faces here at Stafford and catching up with old friends, it feels like a homecoming of sorts.
Surtees’ relationship with event organiser Classic Bike Shows is a well-established one, having now been guest of honour at Stafford three times – another record he holds – as well as opening the company’s media centre in Lincolnshire just over a decade ago.
Across the showground, the newly-sponsored Putoline Classic Dirt Bike Experience was once again a hub of action, with off-road demos taking place regularly throughout the two days.
Classic Dirt Bike magazine editor, Tim Britton, said: “Our thanks to Putoline for sponsoring the Owd Codgers trails demos this year; they were as entertaining as ever.
“We had plenty of shiny exhibits inside the hall too, with a focus on the fact it’s now 50 years since Sammy Miller signed for Bultaco in a move that changed off-road sport for ever.”
Alongside the Bultaco celebrations, 2014 also sees the 50th anniversary of Jeff Smith’s first world championship win and several events throughout the year will mark the occasion, including the massive International Dirt Bike Show at Stoneleigh Park in October.
Traders and vendors enjoyed a successful weekend at Stafford too, as visitors came from far and wide to find the perfect part, piece or tool for their restoration or maintenance project.
“The international tagline in our show’s name is certainly warranted,” added exhibition manager Nick Mowbray.
“We welcome classic motorcycle enthusiasts, not just from all four corners of the UK, but also from Ireland, across mainland Europe and even further afield.”
Attention now turns to the remainder of the classic calendar, with Classic Bike Shows’ next stop at the Royal Highland Centre in Edinburgh for the Carole Nash Great Scottish Bike Show in August, followed by events in Netley Marsh in September and Stafford again in October.
A GOLDEN era of motorsport, and a fantastic weekend of motorcycling – that’s what visitors to one of the year’s best shows are set to enjoy later this month.
The 34th Carole Nash Classic MotorCycle Show takes place on the weekend of April 26-27 at Staffordshire County Showground, and racing legend John Surtees will be there as guest of honour five decades after becoming the first man to win world championships on two and four wheels following his fantastic tussle with Graham Hill for the 1964 F1 title.
Surtees will take along his Ferrari 158 car, plus his championship winning MV Agusta and Norton F Model, while there will be more fantastic machinery to see, including a Moto Major – an Italian made motorcycle never before seen in the UK.
The Bonhams auction is always a highlight of ‘Spring Stafford’ and this time includes a 1939 Brough Superior SS100 motorcycle once owned by the designer himself. First registered on May 24, 1939 by George Brough, the SS100 was put through its paces taking part in the London to Edinburgh endurance run two days later.
The current owner’s father has stored the motorcycle since 1967, using it sporadically since then, and it has been maintained to a high standard. The Brough Superior has an estimated sale value of £140,000-180,000.
Among the other treasures up for auction over the weekend are a 1975 Bimota 970cc HB1 and a 1929 Scott 596cc racing motorcycle.
The two day event will have something for everyone with an interest in motorcycles, including some superb private entry and classic club bikes, along with hundreds of trade stands, an extensive autojumble, The National Motorcycle Museum plus live entertainment in the form of the Wall of Death, Classic Racer Grand Prix Paddock and Classic Dirt Bike Experience.
But for many, it’s the appearance of Surtees which takes it into the premier league of events, especially as he celebrates two landmarks this year – the golden anniversary of his F1 title, and his own 80th birthday.
He’ll be sharing stories from his fantastic career on and off the track, and also promoting a new photographic memoir which will be launched in June – the proceeds of which will go to the Henry Surtees Foundation.
Show organiser Nick Mowbray said: “John Surtees is a hero of so many classic and modern motorcycle enthusiasts; what he achieved is truly remarkable. He is a star name… and not just in motorsport.
“No other man will ever repeat what he has, and this will be a fantastic chance to come and see John in the flesh.”
Advance tickets for the 34th Carole Nash International Classic MotorCycle Show can still be bought from www.classicbikeshows.com or over the phone by calling 01507 529529 – with an advance one day adult ticket costing £10, a £3 saving on the gate price.
The show is open from 9am – 6pm on Saturday and 9am – 5pm on Sunday. Parking is free.
A Selection of unique machinery from around the globe will make a rare appearance at one of the world’s flagship classic motorcycle events this April.
The 34th Carole Nash Classic MotorCycle Show takes place on the weekend of April 26-27 at Staffordshire County Showground with John Surtees’ championship winning MV Agusta, Norton F Model and Ferrari 158 among the headline grabbers.
A Moto Major, an Italian made motorcycle never before seen in the UK, will also be displayed and with Bonhams’ auction and the National Motorcycle Museum in attendance there will be several more eye-catching bikes for experts and enthusiasts to inspect.
James Robinson, editor of The Classic MotorCycle magazine, said: “It’s superb to see so many incredible machines and big names from the world of classic motorcycling coming together for our Stafford event.
“It shows a real renaissance in the world of classics and these stunning machines are a real attraction for long term visitors and newcomers alike.”
Along with the chance to see historic displays, this year sees motorsport legend John Surtees – the only man to have ever captured world titles in both two- and four-wheeled disciplines – on stage regularly sharing tales of an incredible career as he takes his place as the event’s guest of honour.
Surtees, who turned 80 in February, is at the event as part of a series of appearances throughout 2014 to mark 50 years since he captured his Formula 1 world crown and to promote a new photographic memoir to be launched in June – the proceeds of which will go to the Henry Surtees Foundation.
Show organiser Nick Mowbray said he couldn’t wait to see Surtees speak: “John Surtees is a hero of so many classic and modern motorcycle enthusiasts; what he achieved is truly remarkable.
“He is a star name, not just in motorsport, but on the world stage. No other man will ever achieve what he has by reaching the top of his profession in both motorcycle and car events.”
The two day event will also see rows of private entry and classic club bikes, along with hundreds of trade stands, an extensive autojumble and live entertainment in the form of the world famous Wall of Death.
Advance tickets for the 34th Carole Nash International Classic MotorCycle Show are on sale now from www.classicbikeshows.com, or can be purchased over the phone by calling 01507 529529 – with an advance one day adult ticket costing £10, a £3 saving on the gate price.
The show is open from 9am – 6pm on Saturday and 9am – 5pm on Sunday. Parking is free.
Motorsport legend John Surtees is set to be the star attraction as one of the world’s biggest and most famous classic motorcycle events returns once again to the Staffordshire County Showground this April.
The 34th Carole Nash International Classic MotorCycle Show takes place on the weekend of April 26-27 and along with the man himself, both the MV Agusta and Ferrari that took Surtees to two- and four-wheeled world championship glory will be in attendance.
James Robinson, editor of the event’s title publication The Classic Motorcycle, said: “What John achieved in both bike and car disciplines is remarkable.
“He is a real master of machinery and it’s a great honour that he’s chosen to come to Stafford and grace us with his presence.
“It’ll be fascinating to hear him talk about his wide ranging experiences; surely he’s the only man in the world who was employed by both Enzo Ferrari and Count Agusta, as well as being Mike Hailwood’s boss!”
Surtees won’t be the only big name new to the show this year though, with former racer and current motorsport TV personality Steve Plater taking the reins from the retiring Dave Craggs as show compere and commentator.
Plater will be on stage regularly throughout the event talking with the guest of honour and presenting awards, and show manager Nick Mowbray said he was delighted to welcome the former British Supersport champion into the fold: “Steve has been at several of our events in recent years and it’s fantastic that he is coming on board as compere for Stafford.
“We’re especially looking forward to his interaction with John Surtees; those interviews will be excellent.”
It’s not just special guests that’ll be welcomed either, as rows of stunning display machines showcase the very best that the classic world has to offer.
Top billing will perhaps go to the one and only Moto Major, an incredible looking, one-off machine built by Italian Salvatore Majorca in 1949 – it’s a bike that has never been seen in the UK before.
James Robinson added: “I’m looking forward to getting in among the private entries and display bikes to see what gems are at the show.
“The National Motorcycle Museum is back this year, the Rolls-Royce Motorcycle Club is bringing a 1923 Cotton with a 349cc ohc engine which owner Tony Trueman believes to be the only one in existence and the Bonhams auction always has an incredible selection.”
The event will also feature numerous halls packed with traders, manufacturers and autojumbles, and there is live action in the form of the world famous Wall of Death.
Advance tickets for the 34th Carole Nash International Classic MotorCycle Show are on sale now from www.classicbikeshows.com, or can be purchased over the phone by calling 01507 529529 – with an advance one day adult ticket costing £10, a £3 saving on the gate price.
The show is open from 9am – 6pm on Saturday and 9am – 5pm on Sunday. Parking is free.
ENTHUSIASTS came out in droves to the Bath and West Showground over the weekend to enjoy a superb celebration of motorcycling, and it was the regional clubs that really shone in Somerset.
Some fantastic displays and exhibitions marked the 34th Carole Nash Bristol Classic MotorCycle Show, and none were more impressive than the winner of the Best Club Stand prize – the Bristol section of the Norton Owners Club.
Inspired by their own first ever meeting back in 1963, club members built a 60s style shop window that showcased their stunning selection of machines in all their glory.
Event manager Nick Mowbray said: “Despite some horrendous conditions in the southwest of England, the crowds arrived in their thousands for the show and it was truly fantastic to see.
“They were certainly treated to an excellent two days, with everyone commenting on how much of an effort clubs, traders and individuals had gone to in order to make this a show to remember.
“The Norton Owners Club members certainly earned their award for a particularly creative effort, but all of those who had displays deserve credit and we can’t wait to see what everyone comes up with next year.”
Another inventive exhibition included a stand laid out like a stables, with motorcycles taking the place of horses in stalls.
Bob Presley, designer of the winning stand, was rightly proud of his club’s hard work and was also quick to praise the competition: “We’re incredibly excited to have picked up the trophy for Best Club Stand, and it was certainly worth all of the hard work.
“Looking around the show it’s clear that the standard is as high as ever, and we will have to get our thinking caps on to come up with something even better next year.”
Elsewhere, it was a successful weekend for Gaby Hunt, who won the Best In Show prize for his 1929 Sans Soupape Emmags 50.
The rare machine was built in Paris, has a Swiss-built MAG engine and has a frame of unusual pressed-steel construction.
James Robinson, editor of The Classic MotorCycle magazine, talked about the winner and praised the high standard of display machines at the event: “There are some lovely machines, many of which are freshly restored.
“The Best In Show winner truly is a showstopper which, unbelievably, Gaby only finished on the Friday before the event.”
Some of the other notable award winners were a 1928 AJS K8 (Best Vintage), a 1953 Ariel KHA (Best Post-War), a 1958 Ducati 175 Sport (Best Continental) and a 1936 Calthorpe Ivory Major (Best Private Entry).
With two successful classic events already run, the Classic Bike Shows 2014 season is well and truly under way, and attention next turns to The 34th Carole Nash International Classic MotorCycle Show at Staffordshire County Showground in April.
The year’s classic motorcycling calendar is now underway in style as a 12 time British champion and legend of the race track regaled showgoers with his tales of past glory at the Carole Nash Classic Bike Guide Winter Classic.
Thousands of enthusiasts sheltered from the cold in the packed halls at Newark Showground on January 4-5, where they surveyed the rows of stunning classics and the array of trade and autojumble stands.
But it was 1980s race ace Roger Marshall who stole the show, as crowds gathered to listen to his entertaining and revealing on stage interviews with former TT winner Steve Plater.
“There were plenty of people who gathered around the main stage to hear Roger’s Q&A and they certainly weren’t disappointed,” said exhibition manager Nick Mowbray.
“He shared memories and moments, both high and low, from a successful and storied career, as well as recounting meetings and battles with iconic names such as Joey Dunlop and Wayne Gardner.”
Malcolm Wheeler, current editor of Classic Racer magazine and a fellow 1980s competitor, also took part in some of the on stage activities: “Roger was on top form up there and shared some highly entertaining episodes from a clearly eventful life and career,” said Malcolm.
“It was also great to talk to him about the rich history and promising future of racing in the East Midlands – fuelled by Cadwell Park – and his current involvement as a judicial steward in BSB.”
The former factory Honda and Suzuki rider was also on hand to give out the show’s awards – presented to the best in restorations, displays and club stands.
Graham Holloway’s 1955 650 Triumph T110 was selected as Best In Show, Tony Cookson’s 1956 750 Triton Cafe Racer picked up Best Restoration and Garry Kendrick’s 1978 900 Ducati MHR was chosen as the show’s premier private entry.
Along with the classic motorcycle sections of the show, the Scooter World Hall was back by popular demand – a dedicated area that showcased the best in UK scooter clubs and private entries.
Scooter sport celebrities John and Norman Ronald were there for a Q&A session with Classic Scooterist editor, Mau Spencer.
The Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance even dropped in on proceedings to collect funds raised by organising team Classic Bike Shows at a special auction at Newark Showground in June.
With 2014 marking the event’s third year, the Carole Nash Classic Bike Guide Winter Classic has firmly established itself as the top classic motorcycling event in the region and looks set to carry on a tradition of being the classic calendar curtain raiser for years to come.
1980s RACE-ACE and 12 time British champion Roger Marshall will be the premier attraction as Newark Showground once again plays host to the event that kick-starts the classic motorcycling calendar…
Back by popular demand, the Carole Nash Classic Bike Guide Winter Classic takes place on the weekend of January 4-5, and brings together an extensive array of display machines, trade stands and autojumble plots, as well as former track star Marshall – who will be talking to fans and showgoers about his illustrious career.
“Roger Marshall is right up there as one of the most successful Britons to have ever competed on two wheels,” said Nick Mowbray – exhibition manager at organising team Classic Bike Shows.
“He is a genuine legend of British motorcycle sport and we can’t wait to hear his stories from the good old days.”
Marshall won’t be the only racing star in attendance at Newark with scooter sport celebrities Norman and John Ronald set to participate in a special Q&A session.
The Ronald brothers’ names will be familiar to anyone has followed scooter sport history – the pair achieved success both as individuals and as part of Team S Equipe.
The pair will also present trophies as part of Scooter World – a dedicated area at the event that will showcase many of the UK’s major scooter clubs and individual private entries.
As the curtain-raiser to a superb season of events from the Classic Bike Shows team, the new year show boasts a fantastic range of trade stalls and autojumbles that provide the perfect place to grab some inspiration and a boxful of parts to get restoration projects finished in plenty of time for the summer.
“Starting our year of events at the Carole Nash Classic Bike Guide Winter Classic is always a thoroughly enjoyable experience,” added Nick.
“The superb indoor facilities at Newark Showground make this the perfect location for a winter show and with all the action located within the halls, walking round and feasting your eyes on the stunning selection of classics makes for the perfect winter warmer.”
Discount advance tickets – priced at just £7 for a one day pass – are now on sale at www.classicbikeshows.com, or can be purchased over the phone on 01507 529529.
Gates are open Saturday, January 4 (9am-5pm) and Sunday, January 5 (9am-4pm).
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