The Show with Go! It's A Local Affair

02 July 2015

The Show with Go! It's A Local Affair

Barnsley Motorcycle Festival

John Newman

Fifteen years ago the Barnsley Bikers motorcycle club ran their first Barnsley Motorcycle Festival, sub titled 'Show With Go'. That's because those who bring their specialist or custom bikes for others to admire, or want to give their older race bikes a trot out, or turn up on a road bike; can register to ride sessions on the half mile Wombwell Kart Track. A well known venue in this part of South Yorkshire.

People turned out on a day that promised rain but the wet stuff never quite made it. A shame as the day (28th June) was sandwiched between two fine warm ones, and as we all know this makes a big difference to attendance. One bloke told me he was going to bring his classic bike, looked at the sky and...

Getting the tube

As Wemoto's 'northern representative' I took a mini trade stand along and gave out the ever popular neck tubes, key rings and stickers. And it was good to receive some positive compliments for the service the guys in Southwick provide.

As ever there was lots parked up to keep motorcycle afficionados chatting. A lively group of BSA Bantam enthusiasts rode up on their seemingly indestructible little two strokes, the monkey bike crew were there again, plus a contingent from the local bike breakers who seem to bung into the van whatever is running on the day from step thrus to track bikes.

The track sessions are supposed to be a parade, but inevitably enthusiastic riding takes over and there were a couple of gentle offs. A 'yellow card' system operates if a rider is considered to be dangerous on track: a second warning you're red flagged, and that's the end of your day. There are not many tracks where you can watch bikes with panniers, learner riders, super motards and (old) Bultaco two stroke racers sharing the same Tarmac.

Well done Barnsley Bikers for keeping this show on the road down the years. I heard they sold out of refreshments too, a good result for this years charity SARAG (South Yorkshire Asbestos Victim Support Group).