Legions of vintage bike lovers, Italian sport riders, and regular motorcycle enthusiasts are expected at this summer’s Motogiro America, according to the organizing company’s boss.
It’s David Gross’s company, Dream Engine, that is putting on the American event for lovers of old bikes. "I am amazed at the interest and participation we have seen in the first few weeks since announcing the event," said Gross. "Many of the Italian vintage clubs are attending. Historic Motogiro racers like Giuliano Maoggi, winner of 1956’s Motogiro d’Italia, will participate."
In a motogiro, you ride a motorcycle that’s usually old and often small over a set route — in this case, lasting five days and totalling 500 miles around southern California’s Monterey Peninsula — and the winner is not necessarily the fastest rider.
The event pays homage to motorcycle competitions in Italy right after World War 2. For Motogiro America, there will be five classes: vintage racing, touring, 70s twin, super sport, and scooter. Motogiro America starts on July 13 in Cannery Row, in the Monterey, Calif., area. See www.motogiroamerica.com if you’re interested in participating.
Or, you could go to Kamloops, B.C., this summer, and do it without trodding on American soil. Motogiro BC takes places July 5 and 6, and involves two classes of motorcycles: 350 cc and smaller, any year; and 351 cc and larger, up to 1979. Points will favour smaller, older motorcycles, and total distance covered will be several hundred kilometres. Maximum entry is 50 riders.
Want an application? Send e-mail to steve with "Motogiro BC info" in the subject line. We’ll fire one off to you.
