Bay to Birdwood Run, July 2006
From Brian Forth
What a wet day on Sunday 24th for the bi-annual Bay to Birdwood run for vehicles built before 31st December 1956.
I looked out the front door and saw a mist over the city and could not see Glenelg, this wasn’t looking like a great day for riding. So I rugged up and fire up my bikes, the 1927 Harley decided one cylinder was enough to run on so I replaced the HD with my 1947 AJS along with my 1942 BSA WM20. My son David drove my 1950 MG with grand son Riley (4 years old) in the passenger’s seat for their first ever Bay To Birdwood run – they enjoyed and survived it.
On the way to the start we were hit by heavy rain, but by the time we got to the start there was some sign of a blue sky and possible a decent ride?
At the start I checked over and took photos if interesting bikes, met fellow club members and friends. I quickly looked at the veteran and vintage cars and a quick look at the post was classics before bike riders were called up to start.
The bikes started early, I think too early as we passed the early veteran vehicles by the time we reached East Terrace.
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In front of us was the South Australian Police Historical Society’s 1962 Chrysler Royal leading the procession, so with respect we stayed behind the lead car – there are no rules for this but it was with respect we let the ‘old’ Police car lead the way. I wonder was it respect for the Police – or were the old bikes having ‘flash back’ memories of the old day when being chased by the big V8 Chrysler Royal and could risk another occasion?
The weather kept the normal enormous crowds away, but those who braved the cold appeared to be enjoying themselves with the occasional BBQ crowd enjoying the day regardless. Several VVMCCSA members and friends stopped off at the corner of North East Road and Elizabeth Street at Tee Tree Gully for the annual tea and coffee stop. I think 30 riders and bikes stopped making a great display. The rain came and went so we decided it was time to ride on.
The ride through the hills was uneventful – no vehicle coming the wrong way. The weather was fine, the roads dried out making riding pleasurable, with the usual crowds gathering and encouraging us along. Arriving at Birdwood we were ushered to the motorcycle paddock, boards supplied and bikes parked for display, riders grabbing a quick hot drink and reminiscing with others about their ride through the hills.
I enjoyed another great day and ride with friends and strangers, I hope those member who rode also enjoyed the day.
I had a quick look at the magazine and counted 56 member of the VVMCCSA recorded, I might have missed a few, but the club was well represented.
