In 2008 around 70,000 motorcycle fans, from hard-core amateur and former pro racing legends to more casual afficionados, flocked to Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio, a sprawling 330-acre complex where Vintage Motorcycle Days (VMD) is held in central Ohio.
Sponsored by the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), VMD began in 1992. This year it will be held July 24 to 26, Friday through Sunday. The venue is relatively centrally located, within a day's drive of most states in the eastern U.S. and parts of Canada.
Full Slate of Racing
Most forms of motorcycle racing are held at VMD, both on and off-road competition and even sidecar racing. Riders compete on vintage machines from the early 1900s through the mid-1980s.
From classic Indian and Triumph road bikes to rugged CZ and Husqvarna motocrossers, from Motto Guzzi to Montesa and numerous other marques, they're all being pushed to their limits during three days of racing coordinated by the American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association.
Spectator Attractions Galore
The Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course offers a 2.4 mile paved circuit with 15 turns. Bleacher seating for 10,000 spectators is available and there's room for more than 60,000 on the grassy knolls surrounding the course. There's also a large paddock and pit area. Off-road racing is offered at nearby motocross and cross country courses on site. Dirt track racing is at a nearby fairground.
Racing isn't the only attraction:
- Meet the legends of motorcycling - From former champion racers like Gene Romero and Bill Baird to legends of the industry and culture like Willie G. Davidson and Malcolm Smith, every VMD features autograph sessions for fans.
- Extreme sport demos - Spectators can enjoy extreme motorcycle performances including freestyle motocross, Superbike stunt riding, the famous "wall of death" show, observed trials demonstrations and precision drill team ridng.
- Marque of the Year and featured clubs - Every year a different manufacturer and also a club are featured along with displays of their machines and the folks who made them popular. Past featured marques and clubs have included Triumph, Laverda, Hodaka and Ossa, to name a few.
- Swap meet - Billed as the largest vintage motorcycle swap meet anywhere, thousands of parts and motorcycles are bought and sold in the 35 acre swap meet area.
- Technical tips - Get the latest info on repairs and modifications from seasoned experts.
- Free rides - Several manufacturers typically offer free demo rides during the weekend. All you need is a valid motorcycle operator's license and proof of insurance.
- Raffles and drawings - You could walk away with new riding gear, parts or even a new bike. Check out the drawings and register during the weekend.
- Ride'em don't hide'em - A fun ride that starts and ends at the race complex and takes riders through the countryside of central Ohio.
Showers, Food Stands and Other Amenities
Tent camping for up to 5,000 and a separate RV park is available. Shower facilities and restrooms along with food and beverage stands are located throughout the venue.
Golf cart rentals are offered to help negotiate the massive complex. Free rentals are available for guests with physical disabilities.
For the non-campers there are numerous hotels, motels, bed & breakfasts and campgrounds located in and around the nearby cities of Mansfield and Columbus.
Planning Ahead for VMD
Tickets for the event are available on-line through Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. Prices vary from $35 for a three-day weekend pass, to $20 for a one-day ticket if purchased in advance. There are added fees for tent and RV camping.
For the motorcycle fan, AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days is one summer weekend the family won't soon forget.
Christopher Miller - Chris is a veteran newspaper reporter in Northwestern Ohio who has been awarded for his feature stories and breaking news reports. He has ...
