If any proof that the classic motorcycle scene is in rude health were needed, then the annual 1000 Bike Show provided it.
The show has had its fair share of hosting venues over the years, but for the past three years, it has been held in one of the car park levels at Greenstone Mall, near Modderfontein.
While this might seem a little functional and not terribly picturesque, it has huge advantages in terms of protection from the elements and, let’s face it, the main attraction is the mouth-watering selection of classic motorcycles on display, which are actually displayed to their best effect in the setting.
This year, more of the parking space was allocated to the show, meaning that all the participating clubs could spread out and allow the exhibits to breathe a little better, which made viewing a much more pleasant experience.
There were plenty of supporting stalls selling all manner of goods, as well as a good selection of food and drink stalls. All in all, a great weekend for the classic movement.
The timing will always be difficult due to the clash of sporting events. However, despite there being rugby and various motorsports on the Saturday morning, which we South Africans cannot miss, the hardcore gearheads still showed up in droves, but the Sunday morning saw larger crowds attending.
There really was something for everyone, whether your taste is for veteran, vintage, classic, British, German, Italian, Japanese, American, military, 50cc or 1,000cc, pristine or rusting projects. Every club involved really went to town and put on a fine display of motorcycling history.
View our image gallery below to see how it all went down:
Hopefully, the event is secure for the coming years as it is an essential part of the classic motorcycling year; it would leave a huge hole if it were to disappear. Luckily, the drive for it to survive remains undiminished, despite the advancing age of both motorcycles and entrants.
See the link for more information on the 1000 Bike Show.
