‘There are great bikes you’ve never thought of owning’

AAs we gradually ease out of lockdown, the pressure seems to be coming off the classic bike market. Over the last three weeks, I’ve noticed a real upturn in sales. That’s very welcome, as last year was pretty bad, with sales almost 50% down on the previous year. Then along came Covid-19 and things ground to an absolute halt. But now, it looks like business as usual (almost) and I’m actually getting low on stock.

Of course, during the strict lockdown, people were reluctant – and unable – to travel for frivolities like buying a classic bike. But, as we enjoy a little more freedom, I think people are starting to focus on having a bit of fun again. After the very real worries of the virus, lockdown and uncertainty with employment and business, a lot of folk have been turning to their passion for classic bikes to help them through. I really think bikes have been a form of distraction therapy for many of us.

The bond you form with a cherished classic, the joy of riding it and the focus owning a machine you’re passionate about have been a real benefit. And lockdown has certainly got a lot of folk back into the shed, reconnecting with their bike – or bikes.

But as with life, maybe as we emerge from at least some of the restrictions we’ve all been living with, it’s time to change a few things, rather than to just return to life as it was before. And, in classic bike terms, maybe that means sampling some of the more unusual machines out there, rather than just sticking to what we know.

I’m sure it would be more commercially sensible for me to stick to mainstream classics that I know will sell quickly, but I’ve always liked bikes that are a little bit different. That’s why I always try to have some weird and wonderful machines in stock. They do take longer to turn over, but I love experiencing new bikes with their own particular quirks and foibles. Perhaps you should, too. There are some great bikes out there that you’ve probably never thought of owning. So as we get back to something approaching normal, don’t just slip back into the old familiar ways. Try something new. You won’t regret it.

Classic Superbikes has grown from a home-based business to be a respected classic bike trader. Owner Chris Bunce is a passionate, life-long motorcyclist. classicsuperbikes.co.uk