Boy651@aol.com wrote:
>
> In a message dated 3/14/2004 7:08:14 PM Pacific Standard Time,
> classicrendezvous-request@bikelist.org writes:
> It's amazing how few classic bikes you see on the paths.. interest is at an
> all time high it seems, but guys just don't ride them. Now that's crazy!
> Peter noted the above when writing about peugeot demographics which brings me
> to what I've been kicking around in my head the past several days -- how to
> broaden the interest in "classic bikes". I belong to several "Classic" hobbies
> -- german cameras and british sports cars. They are contantly talking on how
> to expand and bring in new blood. Both groups are aging and when people
> start kicking -- who's left to hoist the flag? We have these tribal gatherings
> several times a year however I tend to think they speak to the converted. I
> don't know about Cirque however Velo is a private gathering and intended to out
> of the public eye. How to expand -- you look at the hot rod market and they
> have gatherings all over the place and they do them all the time. They move
> into a main street area promoting it to the local businesses as a way to draw in
> customers. Maybe it works or not but people come in and look and I bet there
> are some young kids out there getting influenced by it all. Hell, every
> Friday nite at Bob's Big Boy in Toluca Lake they pile in - it's a family outing.
> Classic bikes are a hell of lot cheaper than both german cameras and british
> sports cars. Last year at the velo-rendezvous in pasadena we did the ride and
> stopped at this place for coffee drinks. Next door was this shoe shop and the
> guys come out and talk to me. They were digging all the bikes lined up 'cause
> they were also interested in cars. When I mentioned less space and less
> money -- you could see a light bulb go off, both asked how you find these bikes.
> Last month there was a LA Times guy who came along on the monthy ride for a
> sunday article. That was great but there is nothing like seeing one up close.
> For what it's worth... in addition to the two mega meets a year - how 'bout
> looking at doing several smaller meets/displays in public areas. Let people
> get a look at these machines. When these bikes get grouped together and people
> see them -- it has an impact. Any thoughts...?
>
> George Elanjian
> Los Angeles
Great idea George! I think you ought to pursue it. I'm looking forward to attending.
Chuck Schmidt
South Pasadena, Southern California