Vintage motorcycles gleamed in the sunshine as they lined up at Coombe Country Park over the weekend.
Almost 100 riders, mostly from the Warwickshire branch of the Vintage Motorcycle Club, buffered their saddles as they prepared for the 56th annual Coventry Parade from the park on Sunday.
The road run was started by the Lord Mayor of Coventry, Coun Kieran Mulhull, who waved off the riders.
Among the stars of the show was one of the first Rudge motorcycles made in Coventry which celebrates its 100th birthday this year.
Proud owner Dave McMahon, who has never missed a parade since 1959, bought the bike from a man in Scotland who needed money to buy a house.
The 76-year-old, of Northey Road, Foleshill, said: “The event has been around for decades and I love bringing my Rudge over - it’s an absolute joy to ride.”
Neil Levings, aged 62, of Wetherby Way, Stratford, who came with his fiancé Pat Thompson, aged 55, is the owner of a 1920 Triumph Model H, which is 91 years old.
He said: “It’s wonderful taking my motorbike for a ride – the parade is the perfect opportunity to take it for a spin. It can travel at 35 mph but it feels like 75mph. It takes a lot of skill to ride the bike safely but it’s very enjoyable. I have a modern bike but it’s just not the same. I love coming here and the camaraderie of all the other owners is just great.”
Posted: Mon Aug 15, 2011 1:48 pm