EX-World Superbike star Aaron Slight showed that he really is ‘The People’s Champion’ as thousands of visitors packed into the weekend’s Carole Nash Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show to meet their hero and take advantage of the autumn sun, organiser Mortons reports.
Compere Steve Plater spoke to Slight about his career, life as a WSB rider and teased out some entertaining stories during on-stage interviews at the Stafford event. Sunday’s Bonhams auction created a stir too (full report).
At the main show, more than 1000 industry stands are said to have done roaring trade, while enthusiasts enjoyed live action during the weekend from the GP Paddock, Classic Dirt Bike Experience and the Cavalcade. The Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club also offered expert advice and entertained in the Restoration Theatre.
Also attracting a lot of attention were Barry Sheene’s two world championship-winning RG500s in the Suzuki Village at Staffordshire County Showground. These same bikes wowed the crowds when they were fired up in the Classic Racer GP Paddock on the Sunday, along with a handful of replica Aaron Slight Castrol Honda RC45s.
A Bridgestone 350 GTR scooped the Best in Show honour.
Exhibition manager Nick Mowbray said: “It was superb weekend and we had great weather for the duration. Aaron Slight really caused a stir on the main stage and we saw long queues after each interview with people wanting to meet Aaron and have items signed. The quality of bikes on display was unprecedented and we would like to thank everyone for bringing their amazing machines along.
“All in all the show has been an undoubted success, and we look forward to returning in April for yet another Stafford classic.”
Events manager at Carole Nash, Kirsty Garner, said: “We were the proud sponsors of the 24th Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show. With surprisingly lovely weather for the time of year, this was a successful show for traders and visitors alike. Can’t wait to see you all again in April!”
Two-wheel action returns to Staffordshire County Showground on 21/22 April, 2018 for the Carole Nash International Classic MotorCycle Show.