Posted October 2, 2006

The Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum's biggest weekend of the year

It's the biggest weekend of the year at the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum and it's your chance to see the world's fastest motorcycle, meet some of motorcycling legends — and that's just the beginning.

Nine more motorcycling greats will join the Hall of Fame and some of the most amazing vintage motorcycles anywhere will be gathered as the 5th annual Concours d'Elegance fills the grounds of the Museum and the AMA.

The weekend begins with a Friday, October 6 "Evening of Stars and Legends" gala reception, celebrating the Motorcycle Hall of Fame inductees and members.

Saturday is a full day of activities, beginning with the Concours d'Elegance, the country’s largest by-invitation-only showcase of classic and collectible motorcycles, and, this year, your chance to see the world's fastest motorcycle in person.

The Concours is a juried show where only the most compelling original or painstakingly restored vintage motorcycles are invited to participate. Last year, more than 100 exceptional motorcycles spanning all eras and marques vied for trophies and honors.

The 2005 Hall of Fame Concours d'Elegance "Best of Show" winner was Ron Mousouris and his 1957 Honda Benly JC57 (left). The Benly, a Japanese-only model never sold new in the United States, took Mousouris over three years to restore and is an example of the caliber of restoration that the selection committee seeks.

One of the most special machines on display at this year's Concours d'Elegance will be the BUB No. 7 streamliner built by 2006 Hall of Fame honoree Denis Manning (right). The one-of-a-kind machine comes to the Museum fresh from its record-setting success at the Bonneville Salt Flats, where Chris Carr piloted the BUB streamliner to a new world record, topping 350 mph.

Admission to the grounds for the Concours is free and open to the public, though regular admission prices apply at the Museum. The events are part of the Experience Columbus weekend. Mention Experience Columbus and get reduced admission to the Museum.

Saturday evening, following the Concours d'Elegance, is the highlight of the weekend, the annual Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. This year, nine people who have made varied contributions to motorcycling, will join the Hall of Fame, including racers Doug Chandler from roadracing and Heikki Mikkola from motocross, Manning and Burt Munro, subject of the movie "The World's Fastest Indian," from land speed record competition, Cycle magazine editor Cook Neilson, Colorado 500 founder Wally Dallenbach Sr., and others.

Read more about this year's inductees and get a full schedule of weekend events.

© 2006, Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum