Mods N Rockers Toronto 2013 was a resounding success all around. Upwards of 250 motorcycles and scooters were out each day, with many more patrons on top of that who came out to smell the nostalgia, stare at bikes and meet fellow retro-minded riders.
The event started with a kick-off BBQ party at Town Moto on Ossington, where riders mingled, enjoyed hot dogs, checked out the goods for sale and picked up their free copy of Inside Motorcycles’ Nostalgia Issue. While the crowd was no doubt vintage-slanted, there were folks there on newer Harleys, dual sports and even modern classic-styled bikes like the Moto Guzzi V7 Racer and Cleveland Cyclewerks Tha Heist. The congregation then headed a few blocks north and west along Dundas to continue the night at The Black Dice, a sleazy (in a good way) Sixties-inspired bar/cafe with 45s on the walls, a 25 cent jukebox and a classic pinball machine. Everyone enjoyed responsibly while talking shop and discussing the next day’s ride.
The Bristol Yard on Christie was the take-off point for the Crosstown Ride, which went east into midtown, up to the Mount Pleasant neighbourhood and then down to The Duke on Queen St. East, where the parade of bikes rolled in around 3pm. The parking lot behind The Duke filled up fast, hundreds of vintage (and a few new) bikes crammed into the tight quarters for display and to be judged for the competition that included custom, hand-built trophies. About 10 categories included Best British Vintage, Best Custom and Best Modern Japanese. There were some stunning machines, a large amount of Nortons and some truly impressive custom builds. Bar Hodgson and his wife Hedy rode in on a 1951 Vincent!
The Duke hosted the awards presentations as well as a live band and burlesque dancers, while a handful of vendors stayed busy in the parking lot. Inside Motorcycles was impressed with the event, handed out hundreds of free copies of the Nostalgia Issue and will definitely be back next year! Thank you to Michel Mersereau and the rest of the awesome organizers and volunteers for making Mods N Rockers Toronto 2013 a smash hit!
View a small sampling of the festivities at www.insidemotorcycles.com/gallery.html?galleryid=44
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