The Thousands

Ricky Lee Nelson says he has no idea what to expect at next Sunday’s Vintage Bike Meet, apart from the presence of his wife and close friends. While I would advise him to hold off on the catering, I don’t think he should underestimate Melbourne’s love of bikes, road trips and chances to crash intimate gatherings.

On the lapping shores of Lake Weeroona in Bendigo, expect an old-school meet and greet where customs, low-riders and every other pre-’80s two-wheeler can come to show off their sissy bars. If you ask nicely, Ricky will tell you all about how he converted a ’71 Malvern Star long frame with a three-speed rear hub into what looks like a ’70s freeway flyer chopper motorcycle but isn’t. This guy has spent his entire life watching his dad restore vintage and classic wheeled things, so he knows a thing or two about all the bits and the bobs and what they do. After being pressed on the issue, Ricky admits to having a few expectations for the event, namely “nothing but cruising, few yarns, wheelies, skids and maybe a couple of sneaky brown waters.” Wham-O!

RELATED: Closer to home, the three-day BikeFest Treadlie Market starts this Fri Feb 17 at Birrarung Marr /  If you go to Bendigo next weekend for the Vintage Bike Meet, pop by the Newstead Swap Meet too