Classic Bike Experience’s 2024 Holiday Party was a Celebration of Community and Stories
On Saturday, December 7, the Classic Bike Experience (CBE) gang held its much-anticipated Holiday Party, bringing together a vibrant community of motorcycle enthusiasts for an evening filled with laughter, storytelling, and camaraderie.
A Warm Welcome and Great Eats
The turnout was impressive, with members old and new gathering to share in the festive spirit. We enjoyed a delightful spread of food that set the stage for an evening of connection and joy. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as stories began to unfold, adding a unique touch to the celebration.
Storytelling Highlights
This year, CBE introduced a storytelling segment that proved to be a hit among the guests. Members reminisced about their experiences, with tales ranging from the early days of the co-op to the latest adventures of the younger generation. Notable moments included:
Sag’s Early Days: Reflecting on his time as an original co-op member, Sag shared anecdotes from his garage with Nick, who has been meticulously restoring his Harley for over nine years.
Young Guns: Inayat and Griffin captivated the audience with their journeys and the jobs they’ve landed, showcasing the impact of CBE on the next generation of bikers.
Chris’s Secret Reveal: The highlight of the night was undoubtedly Chris’s surprise unveiling of his “secret Norton” to his wife, Suzanne. Their enduring love was evident, and it was clear that she is a remarkable partner in his motorcycle adventures.
New Faces and Familiar Friends
The gathering also welcomed new members, including Brad, who expressed his eagerness to bring his rice burner to CBE for some much-needed sorting in the new year. Alumni Richard and Kate made a nostalgic return, adding to the sense of community that CBE fosters.
Dennis and Debbie, perennial attendees, once again took home the “farthest visitor” award, delighting everyone with their selection of fine wines that complemented the evening’s festivities.
Looking Ahead
Despite a few absences, such as Robert, who is currently battling cancer but remains a vital part of the community’s discussions, plans for future events are already in motion. Robert proposed a bike sale event at the shop in the spring, potentially coinciding with the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride (DGR) on Sunday, May 18, 2025. The idea is to create a day where anyone can sell bikes—vintage or otherwise—followed by a communal lunch and a ride, making it a new tradition for CBE.
As the night drew to a close, the group took a moment to bid farewell to Brent, who will be relocating to Tennessee after the new year. His presence will be missed, but the bonds formed at CBE remain strong, transcending distance.
A Sanctuary of Two-wheeled Passion
Ultimately, the Holiday Party was more than just a celebration; it was a reaffirmation of the CBE community’s commitment to each other and their shared passion for motorcycles. In a world filled with distractions, the members of Classic Bike Experience found solace in their little piece of heaven, vowing to keep that spirit alive in the coming year.
As the evening wrapped up, everyone left with warm hearts and renewed connections, eagerly anticipating what the next year will bring for the Classic Bike Experience family.