While many showcased bikes boast impressive restorations and one-of-a-kind designs, a select few online exhibitors are also eager to display their most exceptional customized creations. Jon Munns from Basic Type attended the event again this year with his newly completed Café Racer build, the Norton 810 CR.
The attention to detail on this bike was exceptional, its cleanliness almost too immaculate to describe with mere words. Jon meticulously transformed a vintage Norton 750 Commando into a stunning cafe racer, embarking on a comprehensive floor-up rebuild from scratch to create this breathtaking beauty. The motorcycle underwent a comprehensive makeover, featuring a revamped alloy physique encompassing tank and aspect panels, while also boasting an enhanced braking system via an upgraded Suzuki front drum brake. Additionally, the engine was boosted to a capacity of 810cc, accompanied by meticulous detailing over several hours.
On display were various basic type bicycles, including a Douglas model with a distinctive candy finish, as well as a selection of superbly restored specimens from Jon’s personal collection.
Irving Vincent displayed three stunning observer motorcycles that captivated a steady stream of awestruck visitors at the Motorclassic event, leaving them open-mouthed in wonder. The narrative surrounding these bicycles unfolds as follows:
“In 1936, renowned Australian designer Phil Irving ventured to England, where he joined the prestigious Vincent Motorcycle Company. To achieve racing supremacy, he implemented a range of innovative design upgrades, complemented by extensive reconfigurations of the vehicle’s body, advanced suspension systems, and optimized engine components.
More than six decades after its inception, the foundational engine and bicycle design of the pioneering 1946 Phil Irving motorcycle remain a benchmark for innovation. The entire engine and its components have undergone a thorough redesign and reengineering by Ken Horner, leveraging cutting-edge technological advancements. The innovations resulted in a significant boost of more than 120 horsepower due to the distinctive design. The company responsible for manufacturing the majority of the vehicle’s components was KH Gear, with the exceptions being the braking system, wheels, and suspension.“
In 2008, Irving Vincent brought his meticulously engineered and Australian-built Vincent motorcycle to Daytona Bike Week’s renowned event, seeking to compete in the storied gathering. During the prestigious ‘Battle of the Twins’ Championship, the duo’s Vincent replica dominated the competition, securing a well-deserved top spot and solidifying their reputation as one of the world’s most exceptional reproduction Vincent manufacturers. Since then, Irving Vincent has successfully designed numerous high-performance motorcycles, catering to discerning clients with bespoke creations.
This BSA was another stunning retreat that truly stood apart from the rest. The BSA A7 Take Three, a 1954 model, was designed by Andrew Hisey.
Across Europe, from England to Italy, enthusiasts and collectors alike took a keen interest in Motorclassica.
The 1973 Ducati 750GT, meticulously restored by renowned enthusiast Ian Falloon, took top honours as the greatest Survivor Bike. The bevel-gear 90° V-twin engine, an iconic design in Ducati’s legacy, is beautifully complemented by a striking black and crimson paint scheme that perfectly captures its essence.
Indian motorcycles, traditionally associated with flamboyant cruisers adorned with frilly tassels and oversized saddles, were never really my cup of tea – until I encountered these two models that redefined my perception.
This rare 1920s ‘Murderdrome’ racing Indian Altoona features an 8-valve engine and boasts impressive pace data records. In 1924, I achieved a remarkable feat by setting a brand-new speed record of 86mph, which held up until the final years of Motordrome racing in Australia. Following the drifter’s demise, the bike was recalibrated for prime pace seaside sprints, where it was recorded at a remarkable 125mph around. The bike’s geometric layout shines with a unique combination of dual 30-inch by 3-inch wheels and a motor cleverly situated between them, showcasing a superior design approach. I’d love to witness someone achieving a feat of this magnitude recently.
The beautifully restored Indian Velo 500 was a truly captivating spectacle. One of only about 150 ever produced, this car seemed to have literally emerged from the showroom floor unscathed. In 1967, the Indians attempted to revive a vintage model through a collaboration with Floyd Clymer and his magazine publishing company.
Built around an Italian-made chassis and powered by a single-cylinder, four-stroke engine manufactured by Velocette, the bike was capable of producing approximately 34 horsepower. Regrettably, its debut coincided with Honda’s release of the 750cc four-cylinder model, making it difficult for the bike to gain traction in a crowded market. If forced to choose between the Velo and a CB, the decision would require careful consideration.
Lastly, I had the opportunity to incorporate this innovative motorcycle design concept into my collection. To capitalize on the iconic popularity of Easy Rider’s Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper, Norton America decided to cash in by revamping their own commando motorcycle to mirror the film’s rebellious spirit. The Norton Hello-Rider’s unpractical 9-litre gas tank, vestigial pillion seat, and cumbersome steering geometry mark notable deviations from the iconic Commando design, but these modifications ultimately fell short of their goal to create a truly desirable motorcycle. Despite its unconventional design, this model was surprisingly practical and well-suited for life in the American Midwest. Additionally, it’s widely regarded as the original manufacturing facility responsible for producing the world’s first-ever customized bicycle, now a highly sought-after addition to any serious collector’s inventory. The sheer magnitude of used motor oil that had escaped its container and puddled on the drip pan, a veritable masterpiece of automotive chaos, left me in awe.
