It is known as a car show but every year I can find some sweet two-wheel beauties at The Ventura Nationals. This year’s show was no different.
Where does my baby sit?: This beauty was right inside the front gate. If I can’t take my baby along, I’m not interested.
For Sale: This one, found in the parking lot, even has a back rest for Gail and it’s on the market. A 1971 Harley-Davidson FLH for the asking price of $8,500. I don’t have the space. If you do, call (805) 218-6116.
Sweet Metisse: This beautiful Triumph-powered Matisse is California plated!
Big in America: Bad Banana, from Japan, now call Los Angeles home. They rocked everything from Chuck Berry to Eddie Cochran, but my favorite was a slower number, the first big Japanese hit in America, 1963’s Sukiyaki. The boys nailed it. Sucked that the emcee booted them off the stage before they could play an encore.
CMC Sunday: These guys are ready to drive out to Saddleback Park.
Trouble in the pits: I could fit my motorcycle in this van but I’m pretty sure it would high center driving into the pits.
If this van is a rockin’: Don’t come knocking because it can only fit one person and you really don’t want to see what’s going on behind closed doors.
Have stage, will travel:Reagan “Guitar” Williams didn’t make the main stage so he brought his own. This guy is awesome. He plays mostly in San Diego. Well worth looking him up.
Minibikes Rule
Mine was red: I first drove to the races in a ’65 Ford Econoline. This one brought back good memories. Hard to find these in good condition and if you do, it will cost you.
My favorite artist: It is always a treat to run into Tiki Tony at an event because the guy goes 100% in on his art and his presentation. A lot of the art at The Nationals has a dark, negative feel (skulls, devils and death). Not Tiki Tony. Buying his art is like taking a Hawaiian vacation.
Store is open: This tailgate store didn’t have a ton of inventory but what he had was very cool. It is hard to not go broke at The Nationals. This is Gnarly Speed Shop if you are looking for Christmas presents for the greaser on your list.
Blast from the past: That sure looks like Bill Bateman on drums who I saw play at the Belly Up Tavern around 50 years ago. He was with a band known as The Blasters. So good to see him still going strong. He was playing with The Blue Shadows at The Nationals.
Mine at another time: If I could have driven one car home, this would have been it.
