The ‘Stafford Show’, as the International Classic MotorCycle Show is more commonly known, is an undoubted highlight in the classic motorcycling events calendar. This year’s edition was hugely anticipated for a number of reasons and Carole Nash was delighted to be back and supporting the show, which took place over the weekend of 20-21 April at the Stafford Showground, as headline sponsor.
We were thrilled to spend the weekend at the show. These were just five of our highlights…
Vincent-HRD stars at Bonhams auction
The Stafford shows are inextricably linked to the Bonhams classic motorcycle auctions, which take place alongside the show. The auctions always creates some fantastic headlines, with rare and expensive machines going under the hammer – alongside some more humble and affordable bikes and memorability.
Star of this weekend’s auction was a 1938 Vincent-HRD 998cc Rapide Series-A, which found a new home for the sum of £228,850. A 1949 Vincent Black Lightning also fetched a six figure sum, while the 48-cylinder, Guinness World Record holding Whitelock Tinker Toy (pictured) sold for £92,000.
But it wasn’t just headline grabbing exotica up for sale. Among the 500 lots were some affordable starter classics, including a very usable looking 1980 Honda CB750F for £2,185.
TT stars grace Carole Nash main stage
The Stafford Shows always feature a guest of honour or two, and this year TT stars Philip McCallen and Guy Martin shared the honours. Guy, who is more widely known for his work as a TV personality these days, drew a huge crowd on Sunday, while Phillip recalled tales of his career (which included 11 TT wins) on both days. Sunday also saw MotoGP Hall of Famer Jim Redman receive a lifetime achievement award. The six-time world champion (also a six-time TT winner) was another enthusiastic interviewee on the stage, which was compered by TV commentator Jack Burnacle.
Machine Shop heads live displays
As well as the auction and onstage interviews, there were plenty of other live attractions at the shows. From live bike startups, to Steve Colley’s trails demonstrations and Ken Fox’s world famous Wall of Death, there was lots to see and do all weekend.
One of our favourite attractions came courtesy of The Machine Shop, the Hinckley-based pay-as-you-go workshop facility and skills school. Their stand gave showgoers an opportunity to try their hand at TIG and MIG welding and changing motorcycle tyres. Awesome stuff!
Jumbling around
One of the best things about the show is the sheer amount of stuff available to buy. The massive autojumble featured everything from random parts, memorabilia and complete motorcycles, from basket cases to minters. If you’re a fan of Henry Cole’s jumbling adventures on TV, you really need to get along. There really are some fascinating finds to be had.
The people
But probably the thing we enjoyed most about this year’s show (and all the ones before) are the people. Spending the day out and wandering around seeing some great bikes is all well and good, but chewing the fat with the owners and enthusiasts is really what makes the difference. Want to learn about Cossack sidecar outfits, Norton rotaries or the iconic Honda RC30? You can be sure you’ll find an enthusiast who’s up for a chat and really bring the stories of the motorcycles to life.
