Bikers’ Classics once again a success

All the promised world champions were present from the 11th until the 13th of June and all of them, including 15 time champ Giacomo Agostini, were happy to get the chance to ride the legendary Francorchamps circuit once again. Apart from that they were confronted by huge numbers of fans of whom many asked questions and wanted their picture taken with the old, but ever relaxed, heroes.

Of course the former racers had aged somewhat compared to the times that they competed at the Spa Francorchamps circuit, but they all lapped with youthful exuberance and enthousiasm – a sign that time seems to have stood still! Bikers’ Classics first timer Marco Lucchinelli entertained the crowds and his former rivals with his jokes and outgoing personality before – as if nothing had changed – having a quick smoke before getting on one of collector Steve Wheatman’s Suzuki factory racers. « It’s like in the old days », smiled Lucky. « I’m enjoying myself very immensely. The whole atmosphere is so relaxed and I like that.» Three time 125 world champ Pierpaolo Bianchi wanted to have his picture taken with his former idol Hugh Anderson, who had travelled from New Zealand to Europe for the first time in 12 years, and on the track Steve Baker and Christian Sarron got entangled in a dramatic battle. In a specially equipped tent world champions like Giacomo Agostini, Jim Redman, Phil Read, Rod Gould, Dieter Braun, Jan de Vries, Mario Lega, Hugh Anderson and Pierpaolo Bianchi signed hundreds of photos, books and jackets from patentiently waiting fans, lining up in long cues on both days. As always, the Francorchamps paddock transformed into a giant reunion party.

The big crowds showed their appreciation for the riders who were raring to go onto the track again and also the sidecar riders received a heartwarming reception. The sidecar riders were the centre of attention of this year’s Bikers’ Classics and the spotlights shone brightly on them in a big tent where dozens of sidecar outfits were on show. Walking past all the old racers from different decades seemed like a journey through time. And it was not just the number of classic sidecars that was overwhelming, also the number of sidecar riders present underlined the success of the event. When old rivals like Steve Webster, Alain Michel, Egbert Streuer met again after many years, it immediately turned into a group hug with stories about the good old days going round. Veteran Stan Dibben (83), enjoyed the attention, as did Max Deubel, Rolf Steinhausen, Ralf Engelhardt and legendary constructor Dieter Busch, whereas the dynamic pairing of Derek Jones and Brian Ayres finally got their sidecar running wonderfully after hours of tinkering, with their racing leathers wrapped round their waists.

During three days many activities took place in a smooth and quick rhythm, also made possible by the presence of the Fiat transporters which took journalists and photographers from one corner of the circuit to another in no time.

Also the amateur riders from all over Europe got the opportunity to enjoy the Spa Francorchamps circuit in all its splendour, whereas they could charm the spectators with their beautifully restored bikes. After a late night concert of Classic 21 the Moto Guzzi owners gathered in their own Moto Guzi village from which they took to the circuit for an impressive parade.

The participants of the 4 Hours of Spa Classic, an endurance race for pre 1980 bikes, gave the public an enticing and dramatic race with heart breaking DNFs with the finish in sight.

Once again the Bikers’ Classics proved to be a success and all parties involved, from riders to fans and followers, are looking forward to the ninth edition of the Bikers’ Classics.

So see you all in 2011!