32nd Annual El Camino Historic Motorcycle Event

The 32nd Annual El Camino Motorcycle Show & Parts Exchange took place at its traditional location on the upper parking structure at El Camino College in Torrance, CA,  on Saturday, September 22, 2007, and YES, IT RAINED!!  This was the first time in the seven years Bator International, Inc. has been putting on the Hanford and El Camino events that we had rain, so I guess we really can't complain.  Fortunately, the weather didn't seem to discourage our vendors, bike show participants or even our general admission.  There were 232 vendors from as far away as Arizona, Utah, Oregon, Colorado, Texas and Idaho.  Our early bird shoppers showed up promptly at 6:30 a.m. with rain gear in tow and chomping at the bit to shop til they drop!!!!!  And, that they did--shop that is--thankfully I didn't see anyone actually drop.  Our gate was down a bit due to the threatening skies, but by 8:00 a.m., the lines were backed up at both admission gates and folks swarmed in like ants to a picnic. The vendors were all smiles as they wheeled and dealed and caught up with old friends and made new ones.  Because of the distance between them, some of the vendors only see each other at these events, so there is much story telling, back slapping and good old fun.  It's really great to see and be a part of. 

This year, Kirk Kelly representing Sporty Specialties, and Gabriel Trench of Retro Moto Magazine graciously joined our group of exclusive sponsors. Walnecks Classic Cycle Trader, as well as Motorcycle Classics Magazine, have been long time sponsors and great supporters of both our Hanford and El Camino events throughout the years. We want to thank all our sponsors for their part in keeping these events going.  There was a great variety of motorcycles and parts being sold throughout the swap area, as  many parts and rollers were seen being ferried down the ramps by their new owners!  Mike Tomas, owner of Kiwi Indian Motorcycles, had a large array of items available for the Indian's, as well as his newly manufactured Chief motor on display.  American, British, Euro and Japanese vendors were all out in force despite the inclement weather. All in attendance had a great time and scored on a bag full of rare and great deals!  

Despite the rain, we had seventy-four of the rarest all original and exquisitely restored vintage motorcycles grace the show that was held on the southern portion of the College's one mile long raised parking structure.  Our judges really had their work cut out for them this time around, as our entrants have really taken the judging comments in the past to heart.  Each year we see a definite improvement in the caliber of the entries--keep up the great work!!  We want to wholeheartedly thank our show participants for bringing there prized bikes out on such a blustery day to afford the public a rare glimpse back through time. This year, Willie Chambers took home the gold, as his 1908  Excelsior Board Track Racer was awarded the "Best of Show" trophy!  Tim Stafford received the George & Karla Threedouble Memorial Plate for the "Best Restored Motorcycle" with his 1968 BMW R60/2.  The "People's Choice" award went to the 1963 Harley Sportster owned by Jack & Mick Flavin and Chris Carlson walked away with the "Sponsor's Choice" award for his 1934 Husquvarna TT500.  Click HERE for all of the individual class results.

This show, like all others, does not belong to the promoters.  Yes, there will always be the controlling body that is taking on the financial responsibilities, but without your support, be it a vendor, show bike participant or the person that pays to come through the gate to enjoy the day, (and possibly find an item or two for your bike), these shows would not exist. Next year, make sure that you bring your kids, your younger siblings or even your neighbor and expose them to our way of life.  In doing so, this will insure that the El Camino Historic Motorcycle Event and the Hanford Classic Motorcycle Rally will continue on for years to come. We look forward to seeing you at both of these events in 2008!!!

Lastly, many thanks to all of the volunteers and show judges that unselfishly gave up their free day to make this a very smooth and well run event.

Best Regards to all,

Glenn & Deni Bator

Quick Stats:

Vendors: 232

Bikes in Show: 74

CLICK HERE FOR SHOW RESULTS