Bikers Classics rocks Spa

Bikers’ Classics at Spa in Belgium is an annual celebration of Grand Prix motorcycle racing. This year saw a seemingly endless list of champions, wonderful bikes, a perfect Spa Francorchamps circuit, a passionate audience; those were the ingredients of another great meeting. All the promised world champions were present, including 15 times champ Giacomo Agostini, and happy to take the chance to ride the legendary Francorchamps circuit once again. Apart from that they met huge numbers of fans. Bikers’ Classics first timer Marco Lucchinelli entertained the crowds and his former rivals with his jokes and outgoing personality – it was as if nothing had changed since the 80s – Marco having a quick smoke before getting on one of collector Steve Wheatman’s Suzuki factory racers. “I’m enjoying myself immensely. The whole atmosphere is so relaxed and I like that.” commented the Italian star. On the track Steve Baker and Christian Sarron became entangled in a dramatic battle, still competitive as ever. As always, the Francorchamps paddock was transformed into a giant reunion party. The sidecar riders were the centre of attention of this year’s Bikers’ Classics and the spotlights shone brightly on racers from different decades; 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 ( aged 83), enjoyed the attention, as did Max Deubel, Rolf Steinhausen, Ralf Engelhardt and legendary constructor Dieter Busch. As well as former GP stars in action, Bikers’ Classics played host to a 4-hour endurance race, classic machines on show and a late night gig by rock band Classic 21. Moto Guzzi owners from across Europe gathered for for a once-in-a-lifetime parade around the evocative Spa circuit. The ninth edition of Bikers’ Classics is already pencilled in for 2011. Read article

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