Antique Nationals at Fontana was a Blast to watch and be a part of.

Posted on June 29, 2015January 30, 2020 by Steve Carpenter

29 Jun

The Antique nationals Annual event seemed to come around real fast this year, but it was not to disappoint as many cool Hot Rods turned up for this Classic meet up and Jennifer and I headed out about 10am to get to Fontana Drag strip to watch some of these Nostalgic machines run the 1/4 Mile. The A-Bone was a great looking ride and the owner had had this for many many years, having a Hoped up 4 Banger is such a rare sight these days and glad to see it. It had some later parts like Alternator and a Thermo fan but this car runs and runs very well indeed. Three Hungry Birds sat on that Early Cragar intake and made sure that this 4 Banger had plenty of Motion lotion to get up the track in a good fast time. I loved the dash cluster and rebuilt Gauges made sure that these all gave a correct reading out in Fontana as it was almost 100 degree’s here today. I am not a fan of 4 bar set ups but loved the hairpins and steelies for this 1929 Roadster on stock rails too. Early style roof gave it that early 50’s look and running a Quick change really does make this Roadster get up and go !!! I loved the Original License plate with the Glass 1939 teardrop lights, this Rumble seat Roadster was a sure cool piece of History out here. This Girly put her Roadster together a few years ago now and with the Caddy mill it made that awesome throaty roar as it roared up the tarmac. Blown Model A Pick up sure got down the strip in a fast ET and surprised a lot of people. Squeak Bell the Kiwi from Bakersfield bought out his awesome 40 Ford Coupe, I loved this ride, pure 50’s Nostalgia all the way through. This little Model T Roadster came down from Arizona, he ran a 302ci Ford and Jenn and I sat in this and felt like giants in it. Many Gassers were here for the day and loved to watch them go down the strip as the weather was humid but great for watching them fly up the 1/4 mile. What a Great match up we had here, I call it the Double A challenge, Roadster Pick up and the flamed A- Bone hit the strip and ran even all the way. It was fun hearing these 4 Bangers wind up as they get off the line and am surprised as to how they flew up the strip and sounded awesome. Plenty of 4 Banger Machines to entertain the crowd today and a rare sight to see at one time, sure glad we made the trip to watch these race each other. How can you not like the Gasser wars? These are always a blast to watch and to hear as these bad boys tear it up at Fontana . Loved seeing this 56 Wagon tear it up at the strip and a very cool set up this was, a rare sight these days. Hubba Hubba! Check this Roadster out- other than the tires I would of left it as it was, a real History machine that was a trip to look over. Have a look at this 4 Banger, how cool would it be to find one of these engines these days and then take it up the strip and then after, drive home, Very Cool. Some serious Tin here and not many like this around anywhere these days. There seemed to be plenty of early Cragar equipped Motors here today but it is run by the Four Banger Club but a rare treat to see all this together. Plenty of engine variations to look at here and had a great time chatting to all the owners etc and asking them about their machines. The weather stayed humid but lucky the Sun was shielded with low clouds, and that made for a great day of racing and pretty good for the spectator. Awesome 32 Three Window Deluxe Coupe as this Fully Fendered ride headed down to the staging lanes to run with the other flatheads. 5 window sits ready for the next round with steelies and spindle mounts, a very tough Coupe and an aggressive stance. Three Very different rides sit here by the Drag strip, Blown 29 Roadster, Stock Model T and an old Hudson Hornet. A very clean and well built Roadster, complete with hairpins and Drilled I- beam and moons discs looked the part here at Fontana Strip. Something for everyone here and we had a fun day chatting to the owners and finding out some info on their rides and where they got them from. Gassers at the ready as Dennis Young, the Aussie Racer drives his Anglia up the strip. Yes please to this Roaster, I would change tires and shocks and rake the windshie3ld but, that’s my preference a solid car and loved it. Another cool Flatty powered roadster that would look great on the driveway at home. This 24 Stud Flatty was powered with Early Edmunds heads and intake Manifold with what looks like REDS headers, cool Motor for sure. Model A Roadster Pick Up was really cool, I loved the 41 plate too. Yes Please. A wicked Roadster with the right look and a sweet firewall and grill shell too, very much wanted to take this home with me. I could not stop looking at this and when they drove it around, the flatty sounded tough, just a really Nostalgic ride for me. A super Clean 5 window that was also popular here at the strip. Plenty of Rare tin to look at here at Fontana and these three cruised about all day. Edelbrock Powered flatty, I really loved this machine and so glad we made the trip to watch the Antique nationals. This stocker sounded pretty sweet and was up for sale too. Still plenty of Tin around and that is surprising but of course, the prices are starting to soar now. This was a winner for me, how cool is this Roadster? I love it all and it sounded awesome. Ready to drive home to La Mirada, I would be so lucky. A Rare find Roadster and it is waiting for a New owner I am sure but I couldn’t afford the price ticket, else I’d of bought it right there. Loved the Canadian Ford heads on this 21 stud beauty. Banjo wheel too, I loved everything about this machine and glad I got to take photos to share with you lot on here. Bills Three window is just an original Time capsule, just enjoy and drive the wheels off it and Bill certainly does as he loves this Coupe. How cool is this? Such a Classic machine and still being driven daily . Look how straight the Bodywork is too, this Three Window is a super rare find and glad to see Original Tin on the road still. Early Plate and cool License plate frame too. Next time you are in San Dimas, check out Bills Three Window and shop- The Old Ford Store. Look at how clean this Roadster is, such a lovely machine in all Black henry Ford Livery. There is Nothing I would change on this Roadster, just take a look at al the detail in this, simply breath taking. I would of liked to hear this machine purr, but the old fella was out having fun with his buddies on the strip but just check this Roadster out, so sweet. Unchopped but Channeled 5 window is reminiscent of the old 60’s East Coast Rods. This Straight axle gasser looked Fast and was fast, loved seeing these race up here at Fontana and they didn’t mess about either. Jennifer inspects this Roadster with its beam axle and hopped up 4 Banger mill. Ak Miller Speed Equipment adorned this roadster, a lot of time and effort had gone onto this build., BRAAAAAP! Pat Gnahl on his Knees as he works on this sling shot straight 6 powered Dragster. This altered Machine was tidy and was pretty fast up the strip today. A very cool little Hot Rod that had a nice Quick Change too. Always cool to see these driving around and the air was filled with smoke and fuel at Fontana today. How can you not like this awesome Willys Gasser, Blown, Flat paint and running on Magnesium’s. Another set of Gassers and this certainly took your breathe away as he hit the loud pedal on the Line today! The Antique nationals is such a good event as it lets you get so close to all the cars and the action too. Below, the staging lanes with all the rides getting ready to compete into the next round. The weather was great later in the afternoon with a little breeze and plenty to look at as we walked around the staging lanes and Pitts. More cars coming down to the staging lanes as we walk around and enjoy the atmosphere at Fontana. Squeak Bells awesome Custom Coupe, Squeak is a well know Hot rod builder and is a Member of the Shifters Car club. Jeff Vodden and Billy Sakata of the infamous Shifters chat to Squeak Bell as he heads to the staging lane for his run today at the strip. 5 window heading down the the track to try his chances of getting through to the next round here at Fontana. This Channeled 5 window lets it all hang out as he gets the Green light and was a fun and fast Hot Rod. Plenty to watch, hear and small as these vehicles raced all day and we loved it all as such a great atmosphere here every year.. We need more of this event to watch every style of Hot rod take to the strip as it so much fun to watch or take part in. Pick up or Coupe, there was something for everyone here and could not get enough of this today. Maybe Next year I shall have my own Roadster and see how I fare with other like minded Hot Rodders. Above is a super Nice Stepside I would love as a shop truck. This 4 Banger A Bone was pretty cool other than the color and graphics but a tight Hot rod and sure was fun to see. The good thing about the Antique Nationals is that you can get and look at the rides close up and everyone is friendly. This ole fella had his Hudson Gasser all about ready to take up the strip. Always nice to have a flip front to be able to get to the Motor and this was a well put together machine and sounded great. This was indeed built for speed and he had great fun this weekend at the track. Another cool Shop truck and nicely done, always great to see these at the Drags and sometimes they even run them against each other too. The Little T that could, this was a low slung ride and driven daily too, up for grabs as well. Traditional 50’s styled A- Bone stood out, I mean, you cant miss them Pete and Jake style flames. But a great little roadster and I know that I would have fun with it and I am sure that you would do too. Every year there is always different rides that attend this show and I love talking to folk around the Pitts to see where they are from and something about their machine, it makes for an interesting and sometimes entertaining conversation. His Beer barrel grilled pick up was cool. Plenty of people were here to race and to have fun an this was a fun ride to watch this weekend and did not hang about. A lonely Roadster sits on the Tarmac awaiting its time, sits low being channeled and I loved it with red Oxide primer an all. This little A-Bone Roadster was super cool and so was the owner, 4 banger power with AK Miller parts, this will run all day and never get hot. I saw plenty of Ak Miller parts this weekend and love seeing cool stuff like that, this Roadster is daily driven in all weather and super nice owner. A fun little A- Bone that he gets many many miles of smiles from and I am envious in a good way, great to see and chat too. This guys doesnt give a flying Duck- loved the tear drop trailer with it, super tidy combonation. A lot of time and money have gone into this ride and boy can you tell, this was so clean, yet he drives it to many places. A very cool set up and never an issues in the time he has had it, just a well built machine and fun to see today. Cruising down to the Staging area to check out the rest of the rides. Resto’s were very clean and all of them run like a top. Something for everyone if you come to the Antique nationals and we had a brilliant time here. Love looking at the Gassers. It hauled Arse too. Super clean green machine and I have always dug Classic Fog lights on Rods and motorcycles. Tasty Three Window sits facing the drag strip to watch the Vintage machines scream down the track. A walk around the Pitts shows all sorts of amazing machines and this Black Three window caught my eye, its a really ride. 1932 was a great year for the Automotive industry, being the First V8 Fathead too, love these rides. Great Girder front end on this Whizzer and a few raced this weekend too. Super Nice Bowtie Step Side work truck, love these things and sits well on 5 spokes. Jenn and I sat in the Little Channeled Roadster, I was half hanging out of it but a fun ride and a super nice owner from Arizona. Mid engine Flatty in this push truck looked great. Two Door 50 Coupe was such a nice clean ride. I would of loved to have driven this today even had a push bar on the arse for the drags or dry lake. Every where we looked there were Flattys blappng about the place. A few Cushmans turned up too and ran like 35 seconds on the 1/4 and fun to watch race. This 5 window was heading out to the staging lanes and runs super well, More stuff to look and listen out for as we walked around at Fontana. There goes the Cushman- Flat out at 40mph. Whizzer and Harley go at it, thats fair right? We had an awesome time, and look forward to next year, hopefully see some of you out there too?

Here are some video’s I took, not great footage but still you get the idea.

Below, Squeak Bell in his awesome coupe.

Great little race this one.

Flying Orange Speedster.

Always great to watch Hot Rod Girls and she is certainly that with her Caddy powered Roadster, shame she didnt get the win but it was close.

Whizzers give it some as they take 22 seconds to do the 1/4 mile.

TEX SMITH’s Final trip – What a legend in Hot Rod History

Posted on June 26, 2015January 30, 2020 by Steve Carpenter

26 Jun

By John Gunnell

Former Associate HOT ROD magazine editor and publisher Charley Roy Ugama Waya Golaneeda, known around the automotive hobby as LeRoi “Tex” Smith, passed away on June 11 in Australia, where he had lived during the last years of his life. Smith was an icon of the hot rodding sport, but was always involved with all types of old cars and old car events.

Clarence LeRoi ‘Tex’ Smith was born in Cleveland, Oklahoma, to Esther Mae Welch on Jan. 4, 1934. Later, he took the name of his stepfather, Carlos Debs Smith. Tex was of Cherokee and Choctaw heritage. He was a member of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma and the Cherokee Band of North Carolina. His Great Grandfather and Great-Great Grandfather were principal chiefs of the Eastern Band of Cherokee.

Tex was trained in tribal culture by his grandfather, Charley Welch. In the 1960s, he became very active in tribal and national Native American affairs. On occasion, Tex was commissioned to write articles and conduct public relations forums for other Indian tribes.

Tex stayed in Oklahoma until he was six. In 1940, he went to Texas and then to California in a typical “Okie” search for better jobs for his dad. His stepfather was a craftsman skilled in many trades. He worked in oil fields in the Bakersfield, California, area and then moved to Washington, where he became an interior carpenter on World War II Navy PT boats. Carlos then became a journeyman auto body and paint expert in northern California. During this time, Tex rarely attended one school for more than three months. The family moved to Rexburg, Idaho, in 1949. Tex graduated from Madison High School there in 1951.

Tex was a supporter of the first Bonneville Salt Flats speed trials sanctioned by the Southern California Timing Association (SCTA). He crewed for Lee Wooley’s Buick coupe in 1952. Also in the ‘50s, he raced a ‘32 Ford coupe with a flathead. Tex remained a fixture in land speed racing, most prominently as a journalist.

Tex continued to develop his interest in specialty cars (hot rods and circle track racers) during the early years of those sports in Southern California. In this period, he worked closely with the legendary Wally Parks on development of the National Hot Rod Association. Over the years, Tex served as NHRA’s international Ambassador, European Director and National Field Director, working out of a Hollywood office. He formulated and directed the activities of NHRA drag racing, created the International Car Club Association for NHRA, and developed programs related to driving sports cars in European races and rallies.

After one year at Idaho State College and one year at Ricks College in the early postwar years, Tex signed a contract to play professional baseball in St. Louis, but he was then drafted into military service during the Korean conflict. He was selected to attend the U.S. Air Force’s cadet program and graduated as a Lieutenant specializing in piloting single-engine jet fighters.

The Air Force provided Tex with further training as a Personnel Officer. He was assigned to bases in France and Germany, but left the service in 1957 via an early-out program to accept job as Associate Editor at Hot Rod magazine in Los Angeles. He then took additional college courses at Montana State University, but left just prior to graduation to return to Hot Rod. “I was already in a career that I thought I needed to finish college to get a career in,” he once told us.

Tex left Hot Rod in 1964 to launch a successful free-lance writing career. He expanded into writing books for various New York publishers including Dodd, Mead & Co. during the ‘60s. He wrote on wide range of activities, specializing in sports of interest to men — boating, aircraft and cars.

Tex wrote a book called We Came In Peace, a look at America’s first moon landing. He created an outline for a popular outdoors TV show, did magazine promotions for Boy Scouts of America, undertook public relations writing for the White Mountain Apache Tribe and, from the ‘60s thru ‘70s, wrote many Petersen specialty automotive books.

Tex created TRM Publishing Co. as the foundation for Tom McMullen’s company. Starting in 1968, he introduced a series of successful magazines such as Street Chopper, Chopper Guide, Hot Bike and Street Rodder. Tex also helped put Tom Medley’s Rod & Custom magazine into the mainstream as the voice of the emerging “street rod” movement. He also did much to generate direction for what was a fast developing new aspect of hot rodding in that era.

In 1979, Tex moved to Iola, Wisconsin, to become editor of Old Cars Weekly and was almost immediately promoted to publisher for all of parent company Krause Publications’ automotive titles. From there, he moved to Dallas, Texas, to become PR Director for Interstate Battery Co.’s Great American Race in the early days of that event. In 1985, LeRoi retired — for the first time — and relocated to Idaho to live and go trout fishing in the Teton Valley.

In 1987, Tex came out of retirement to start his own publishing company based around a popular magazine he created called Hot Rod Mechanix. He also developed an ever-growing line of specialty books.

LeRoi Smith retired for the second time in 1999. Following the death of his beloved wife Peggy, Tex remarried. From that point on, he split his time between homes in Idaho and Australia, with stopovers on Kauai, Hawaii.

RUBY’S CAR SHOW WE ATTENDED

Posted on June 23, 2015January 30, 2020 by Steve Carpenter

23 Jun

What a great little venue Ruby’s diner is up in Whittier, A stones throw from where I live and thought that a trip to check this Car show out would be fun to attend and get some cool grub at the same time, seeing as it is quite light until at least 8;30 pm, we took advantage of the weather and headed out to Whittier for a great evening with my 59 Club.

Caution indeed,as we parked up and took in the sights and sounds of Ruby’s Diner and what a great selection of cool stuff they had to show us here.

How about this awesome flathead Indian Chief, I would love to have been the owner of this ride and loved everything about it, even the oil leaks!

I painted this design on My leather jacket a few decades ago now and always loved the Indian logo, what a cracking American piece of History.

I didn’t see the owner as i wanted to hear it fire up and cruise down the road, but this show is always cool to see as you never know what might turn up.

Green seemed to be a popular choice of color for many of the cars that showed up today but its a cool color none the less and loved the rides.

The fairlane below was super clean and had every factory option available o it, a sweet long and wide machine that was just nice to look at.

The Pontiac Star Chief was also a hit at the show, Big Chromed D- Cup Over riders and sat lower than a snakes belly, this was really a nice car.

The 5 spokes and Lakes pipes on that Star Chief was a nice touch too. Blew a soft green Lincoln Continental Convertible looked awesome.

Four Door Galaxy was super clean and all original trim too, this has been cherished for many years that’s for sure and I loved it.

Below, this Yellow T Bucket had more tickets than cheap Angels deals and was Blown with open headers!

I would of loved the Dodge Lancer as the Body work was all original and loved the paint patina, not sure where the Hood went though.

Small Block Powered 1930 A Bone was sitting pretty on steelies and lakester headers.

I loved this49 Woody, awesome Super deluxe Model and Flathead powered with a three speed.

56 Wagon was clean and I have seen a few of these out here, loved to own one myself as I had a 55 4 Door in the UK in the 90’s.

Another Green ride, this time a Bowtie on stock rims and cleaner than many cat’s Arses.

Super smooth and clean 56 Belair that had custom 60’s tube grill, just lose the dice and this would be fab!

I know, but as I said, there is something for everyone at this weekly meet and this was really clean too.

Mopar at its very best here, plenty of people looked at this Plymouth, love the big intake scoop.

How can you not just stop and stare, such a menacing front end.

Little Canary yellow and Red 40 ford is so cool, an early owner so a Hot Rod for many years, flattys gone so now a street rod but loved it.

I loved this 53 it sat right, looked right and would of loved to own it and painted it a candy Root Beer brown with lake pipes.

This tidy 55 is a nice model and other than the Dice, I would of taken it for sure.

This show is Every Friday in the Summer and people are so friendly, if you get a chance, come over as I know you will enjoy yourself as much as we did and we continue to do so.

Many thanks to you all for coming out, we really enjoyed your company and the ride on this Hot Summer Night and look forward to our next meet, check out Carpy’s Cafe Racers on meet.com for more rides that we will be doing, come along, we are fun to be with.

59 Club Ride out to Ruby’s Cruise Night in Whittier this evening.

Posted on June 19, 2015January 30, 2020 by Steve Carpenter

19 Jun

OK, tonight at about 5:30 we are going to take a little ride out to Whittier, to see some cool Classic cars as Ruby’s Diner puts on a show Every Friday and always a cool place to hang out, look at the rides, check the 50’s Diner out and hear the sounds of yesteryear as you walk around the Parking lot to see the Cool machines pull in and out.

This is a fun event and Jennifer and I regularly check it out but as its fathers Day this weekend, many will be turning out as the Fathers day Roadster show will be on in Pomona, so people come from all over the USA in their machines to attend that event, so this is a great stop over for them.

Great rides for all to see, My Passion for these classic Motors is of course the good Old roadster or the old style Custom.

So see if you can get down there tonight, as it is on until 9pm and will be warm tonight too, perfect to get that old machine out.

Above, this Scot Blown Flatty sounds the business and sure would love to own it, you never know what will turn up at this event and that’s what makes it cool.

Every body loves seeing the Straight Axle Gassers and I am sure there will be some there again and everyone is approachable and loves to chin wag.

Love this Kemp Kustom and with three 97’s too!

Hope to see some of you there.

Where is it?

Funny things with Scooters

Posted on June 17, 2015January 30, 2020 by Steve Carpenter

17 Jun

Hey you lot

Thought I would add a little entertainment for you today with some funny Video’s based around the flying hairdryers,- yes, them there Scooters!

Every Rocker likes to have a dig at these machines and I am sure the Mods do the same about us, remember, My Girlfriend has a Scooter so this is all tongue in cheek and thought it would make for some fun viewing.

Now Below is something that may raise an eye brow or two, how about a Hovercraft scooter? just in case the Rockers chase you in London and you can get away across the Thames to freedom!

So here is the Proto type of that Amphibious Scooter.

Below is a 1954 Proto-type that I am sure my Girlfriend Jennifer would love to own and ride to some events.

In days of old when Scooterists got cold they would dress up as Knight of the round table and joust each other!!!

OK, back home we have many beaches being that we are an Island etc, but Most people think of Mods with Brighton beach etc, but a popular and I use this word in pun- Retreat, was at Southend On Sea and this little video shows a Rally in 1964.
And it is on Color too.

In 1956 there were some cool things happening in the Globe, Elvis came about and was Rocking the world, Chevy Bought out the cool 2 and four door Belair, but back home in Middlesex, well, some planks decided that they would build Scooter water craft and attach string to the handle bars as reins!

Now as we have much history in our little country, you are bound to have heard about the Battle of Hastings in 1066 right?
Well later on in 1955 there was a small battle going on, you could see smoke, was this a big fire? Was it a big BBQ? Had we arrived in London to all that Smog? No- it was the 2 stroke motors of the little scooters all competing from all over Europe to who could ride in a Circle!!!!

1964 this time and a short video of a bunch of out takes as these ring-a-Dinga’s have a go off road.

Well I hope some of these videos made you smile or laugh or cringe, I dont know whats more funnier, watching girls on scooters on the water or watching Franz Reichelt jumps off the Eiffel Tower in a parachute coat!

Have a great day!

Mods Vs Rockers 2015 Ride

Posted on June 15, 2015January 30, 2020 by Steve Carpenter

15 Jun

Well, this weekend I thought I would try out a new – ish ride that is in LA and it was big wheel little wheel but now called mods Vs Rockers.I have no idea why it is named that as there was maybe three Rockers there and I was one of them, None the less a fun ride up in the Canyons and I enjoyed myself.

First off Andy and I rode down to the cafe 50’s restaurant in Santa Monica, what a swell place and I loved it in there, as it exactly the place that I really enjoy.

This place has so many cool original artifacts, they should have tours going through the joint, it was amazing and many years to get all the cool stuff in there.

I was stoked to be able to have my breakfast here and they played original Rockin tunes through the juke boxes on the tables, it was just superb.

If you are into old 50’s places and diners, this is a MUST on your ports of call as it really is a work of art and so nice to see these still around these days.

I wanted it all for my shop, from the Big Jukebox in the main galley to all the original Lobby posters that adorned the walls of this kitschy Diner.

I loved sitting here and was glad to have arrived about 20 minutes earlier than planned as it gave me time to check all the cool stuff out in the restaurant.

And I shall visit again as the service was great and a brilliant atmosphere for those who dont like it.

Below:

Billy Joe From San Diego and the New president of the San Diego 59 Club sits astride his Vintage Beemer, and Andy from the O.C. 59 Club cruises with us as we head to the meeting point at Atlantis Motorcycles.

Below is Andre Pine- California president and soon to be starting the L.A. Section, riding his Trumpy and wearing his trusty Davida and Lewis Leathers.

Not much time to take photo’s as my camera was in my jacket but liked this shot I managed to grab as we were waiting in some traffic in Hollywood.

The weather actually rained a little on the way down here for Andy and I but soon started to warm up and I knew it was going to be hot later in the twisties.

Andy pulling into a space as we stop at the meeting point at Atlantis motors, and it was already starting to warm up as the day got along.

A little CB350 some Young Lass turned up was in great condition for an original, all sorts of motorcycles were turning up here at mid day.

I had no idea how many would show up at this event as this was my first time but wanted to turn up for this function to see what it was all about.

There was a lot of bikes parked up and people were all great to have a chin wag with.

We hang around and checked out the bikes that Atlantis motorcycles had at their new shop and enjoyed the atmosphere with all involved.

Plenty of Machines in and around their shop to look at in may conditions and some I would of loved to take back home too.

From Goldwings to BSA’s, Atlantis Motorcycles has a Plethora of machines to have a good look at and they seem to be a busy place too in a great area.

But chatted to Marc Atkinson as he was leading the way to the camp ground up through Angeles Crest Highway and through the great twisties., Below I am working out the route we are taking for this afternoons ride up the Canyon.

Below: Walking around the Workshop of Atlantis, checking out any goodies they may want to let me have and take home with me!

Plenty of Old Tin to look at and a few of them were for sale too if you fancied a little project to play with on the weekends.

Plenty to look and see and an array of Machines were planted firmly on the ground at the workshop and they had some pretty cool machines there I would of loved to have as my own to be honest.

If you can get down to this neck of the woods, come check them out as I am sure they can help you with what ever you need and open late too.

Skid lid anybody? just a few bits and bobs they had at their shop for you to have a look at.

Andre, Billy Joe and Kirsten from the 59 Club, shoot the breeze on this warm afternoon and get ready soon to jump on our machines and head off.

The three Presidents at one meet up, pretty cool.

A few people as we were riding away starting to follow up behind and there was quite a noise to be heard of different brands of Motorcycles.

Pulled up at the Gas station right off the 210 and before the start of the climb up 3000 feet to the ranch where I would hang out and then make the trek back down, just because, well, I can!

The Scooters turn up and get Petrol in their tanks and get ready to all leave for this ride.

All sorts of bikes were here for the run and I thought I would take a few snaps whilst I had my camera at the ready to show you lot todays event.

More Mods than Rockers thats for sure, I think they named this run wrong as this is not a Mods and Rockers event at all, just a meet up to be honest.

Ringa- A ding Dinga’s are almost ready to whizz off up the Canyon with Blue smoke behind them.

A neat little set up that My Girlfriend Jennifer would of loved to have owned as this looked to be all original.

Getting ready to fire the bikes up as we leave the gas station and make our way up the winding road to have fun in the Corners.

Time to saddle up and get this bloody show on the road as I was getting Hot as the temperature started to gain on us.

Billy J gets bored going slow, so we hang back a little bit so we can scrape our foot pegs again as the roads get a little technical up there.

Andre Pine giving it his best Elvis Impression and failing miserably as we wait for a few to catch up.

Trumpy at the ready as we get set to take a few more corners at a few more miles per hour than many but- its not a race, we just like to ride Hard!

One Mile from the camp Ground at Newcombs Ranch that is situated in La Canada – Flintridge and a good resting point for sure.

Andre pulls in and looks to be chuffed that he had some good times in the twisties, almost getting taken out by a guy and a Girl on One scooter, but he held the throttle and they didnt get passed again.

Chillin wit Big Scotty, a fun bloke and his laughter is as big as his frame, top guy and really enjoyed his company

A nice break as at the top of the hill the weather was Humid as hell and time to relax for a bit before I headed back down again.

Beemer with a Chair pulling up to have a much needed rest, them things are not the easiest Motorcycles to maneuver on a good day on the flat let alone up a mountain!

Little brat Honda, Bangs along with no worries on the way to the campground and loaded for Bear by the look of it.

Hanging with the 59 Club, thats what its all about, these people are like Family to me and we sure have fun what ever we do.

Getting warmer and was glad I could get a chance to take the leather off for a bit as the humidity was really bad today and felt like a tropical Island.

Fun ride though and I enjoyed getting my Knee down in the bends, sometime not knowing whats beyond, but great views too as you are so far up.

At the top of the hill and just taking a few minutes to look at this area, untouched and so nice to see rather than Concrete jungles.

I am looking forward to the next time I ride up here, we are so spoilt in California for some great roads to ride on still and its good therapy for me too.

Above, Andy on his Thruxton, a newbie at riding but handled it well and glad he enjoyed it as there is nothing like riding a Motorcycle in the Canyons.

I saw Steve Natt at the Bottom of the Hill, he had an oil light issue, just turned out to be a bad connection so all OK.

A great ride on a Saturday with good weather and hardly any traffic up the hill, but bucket loads on the 210 Freeway coming home.

A great fun day and come out with us sometime, i am sure you will love it as we really all get along and enjoy the day.

Now this is what we need many more of, Cool Girls building Motorcycles.

Posted on June 13, 2015January 30, 2020 by Steve Carpenter

13 Jun

How cool is this to watch, what a brilliant thing it is to see and I sure hope that seeing “Sofi T Singos of GT- Moto inspires many more women to get into this trade as it is so refreshing and I know there are a ton of gear head girls out there. If I had a hat on Sofi- I would take it off to you right now. Just wanted to share this with you this weekend, it made my day.

So today is dedicated to Girl builders and Riders and I hope some of you drop me a line with photos and stories as we need strong minded and Motorcycle Riding woman on the road and at shows as I know there are many of you out there all over the world.

I look forward to seeing more about this young Lady as she has the drive that many of us builders have and it is great to see.

Its great to see someone with real passion over their craft and to be able to go further and ride and race their machine is brilliant.

Having many strings to your bow is always a bonus and here we can see Sofi doing her thing with the Tig.

A refreshing sight to behold and i am stoked to see more and more women involved in our sport and hobby.

From welding to wrenching, Sofi does it all much respect to you for doing what you love t do and making it a career.

Cut, grind weld, thats just a small amount of things needed when building bikes or designing parts and Sofi has the gift for sure.

Racing is also in her blood as she takes the inside line and lays that Knee down on a right hander.

I look forward to seeing her work at shows and in the media, its all cool and very eye catching, great job on the Honda.

So, all you girls that want to wrench or are doing it in the garage at home, here s a great inspiration for you.

Have a Great weekend and many thanks for checking Sofi out on here, to see more on what she does go to http://www.gt-moto.com/

Come on Girls, send me your Bio’s so we can promote you lot as we need more Girls to do this stuff and am looking forward to seeing it all.

L.A. MODS VS ROCKERS #10 This Weekend.

Posted on June 10, 2015January 30, 2020 by Steve Carpenter

10 Jun

Well here it is, the next chapter in L.A. and for me this will be the first time I have seen this shin dig and am hoping it is going to be a swell turn out at the event as it would be great to see as many people as possible turn up for something like this.

Jesse Workman aka DJ Astro will be spinning classic tunes!

Shirts will only be for sale on Saturday. No meet and Greet Friday, sorry guys. Please bring cash, no ATMs in the forrest. Remember Camping is a donation of $10, plus there will be a raffle!!!! $1 tickets! and $10 Shirts!

Food Update: Pagan Feast will roast a pig!
Pre Buy Now!!!!!!!!!!
Menu: Free Range, Wood Fire Roasted Pig with Collard Greens, BBQ Beans and a slice of bread for $14 a plate
To purchase tickets in advance and get your name on the list please paypal us at: kelly.kelaen@gmail.com for $14. We will be taking prepaid orders and reserving plates until the end of the day Thursday June 11th. After that the rest will be on a first come, first serve, cash basis at the campground. We only have 75 prepaid plates available so get yours now!!
For any questions please contact Kelly Lopez via facebook.

Lots of fun stuff to do! Mods vs Rockers tug of war! Slow race, horse shoes etc!

Try packing light, no guarantee of chase trucks this year. Please organize with local riders, friends etc.. We got stuck with way too much stuff last year. Pack some food, drinks, etc. We’ll have a communal BBQ, so you can cook your food! Bring some water!!!!!!!

!!!!!!!!RIDING TIP FOR SATURDAY!!!!!!!!!
If both meeting spots are out of the way for you, BOTH rides will stop at the (Shell Gas Station 4530 Angeles Crest Hwy La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011) before going up to the Bandido Campsite! Be ready at the Shell station at 12;30pm and wait patiently!!! This is the last gas station for 28 miles!

SATURDAY June 13th Scooter and Motorcycle Rally/Ride to campgrounds

-MOTORCYCLES: Meet at Atlantis Motors Inc
3300 W Sunset Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90026
Ride Leaves 12noon sharp!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This will probably be a fun and huge ride.. This includes a short hop on the 2 fwy/ 210 then hwy 2 exit! . If you think yer bike is too small or you want a slower scenic ride, join the scooters.

-SCOOTERS: Eatz Cafe in Los Feliz!!!
3207 Los Feliz Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90039
Leaves 12noon sharp! Lead by Bar Italia Scooter Shop!!
Scoots will cruz streets through Glendale/Pasadena before going up the Crest.. NO FREEWAY!

Sunday June 2nd; Ride home, breakfast at Newcombs Ranch! Your on your own or follow a group home!

Remember!!! The Bandido Group campground is just 2-3 miles past Newcombs Ranch restaurant!! We’ll post a yellow sign at the turn, on the 2 highway, keep your eyes open!!!!!!!

MAP TO CAMP GROUNDS FROM SHELL GAS STATION (JUST COPY PASTE YOUR STARTING POINT):
Name of Campsite is Bandido Group Campground, it’s just before Horse Flats!!!!

https://www.google.com/maps/place/Bandido+Campground,+Pearblossom,+CA+93553,+United+States/@34.346204,-118.003678,17z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x80c2e3eef743e995:0x65e03aab4ac37c2c?hl=en

QUESTIONS: MESSAGE ME OR CALL 818-489-4579 EDDIE (11am-8pm M-THurs) (Anytime Friday) (Early Saturday,GOOD LUCK after 11am)

Camp Grounds
EVERYONE IS SUBJECT TO CAMPGROUND LAWS! WE ARE NOT LIABLE FOR ANYTHING STUPID YOU MIGHT DO to yourself! READ CAMPGROUND LAWS/RULES NEAR THE ENTRANCE OF THE CAMPSITE, THEY ARE VERY IMPORTANT!!!! YOU COULD BE FINED!

This is a really cool camp ground that holds 150 campers+. The site has 4 bathrooms, but no running water! Even though we will have bottled water , it’s a good idea to bring a quart of water for yourself and extra food, we’ll provide a grill and coals! . If you need a bathroom with running water and a cooked meals, Newcombs ranch is open till 10pm and a 3 miles away!
We’ll also provide firewood for the main camp fire and power for music! After that your on your own! But bring logs if you can!!

WEATHER AND WHAT YOU SHOULD BRING!
At 5840ft elevation, it’ll be hot during the day and freezing cold at night! For camping you’ll need a tent, sleeping bag and warm clothes! A small bottle of water, flashlight(!), some extra food(freeze you perishables!) then you won’t need a cooler(put in backback)! Travel light!

If the weather is cloudy in the city. by the time your half way up the 2Hwy(Crest) you’ll break passed the cloud line and it’ll blue skies and bright sun! You will not be disappointed.

Website Directions:
From La Canada at the junction of the I-210 and State Route 2 (Angeles Crest Highway), exit I-210 and turn north towards the mountains on State Route 2. Proceed 28.5 miles to Three Points (two miles past Newcomb’s Ranch Cafe) and turn left onto Forest Service Road 3N17 (Santa Clara Divide Road). Continue west 2 miles to the entrance; gate is on the left.

59 Club Meet up at Roscoe’s Pub In Fullerton Wednesday!

Posted on June 9, 2015January 30, 2020 by Steve Carpenter

09 Jun

Well it is almost time for our Monthly meet up and we loved Roscoe’s bar and grill so much, that we are going to be there once more, great food and great beer as well as plenty of old signs and neon to have a look at, you will enjoy this relaxed and fun atmosphere as we ride to this unique establishment and try out their many beers and cocktails.

Located at 116 W. Commonwealth Avenue in the center of Old town Fullerton, this a cool venue and we can even park our Motorcycles outside there.

Hope to see you there at 6:30 pm and enjoy a pint and a Sarnie!

Steve McQueen Show at Chino Hills

Posted on June 9, 2015January 30, 2020 by Steve Carpenter

09 Jun

Today was a great morning, a little overcast, but ideal for our ride today as it was that time of year to head out to Chino Hills for the Annual Steve McQueen event and boy was I looking forward to it as this is a huge show with plenty of stuff to look at.

So, look below and you can see what we saw, I loved the ride there as we didn’t have to touch a freeway at all and went up Carbon Canyon through some nice twisties and just a brilliant day, i want to thank all my lot for coming out and making the day a really fun one.

My Girlfriend Jennifer followed up and we spent the day looking at some super rare machines ad great food too.

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