‘Good, rideable ’20s bikes are still in demand’

I’ve recently become the face of H&H’S motorcycle department, so I’d like to take this opportunity to say hello. I’m not a totally new face, though, having worked in the department for nearly three years now and I’ve had the chance to meet plenty of regular clients face-to-face at various events. But, of course, all that’s on hold for the time being, so it seems like a good idea to introduce myself as we approach the start of another sales season.

I got into classic and vintage bikes (and cars), like many do, through my dad and grandad. At first, it was the cars that attracted me and I was something of a late starter with bikes. I didn’t get my first bike until around 1986 – but it really made an impression on me. It was a 1930 BSA 250 B30 Super Sports that had been ridden in the Scottish Six Days Trial and got me hooked on vintage and pre-war bikes. I bought my first New Imperial in 2006 and haven’t looked back since. I love them.

At one stage I had nine of them, but now I’m down to two – one of which is my absolute pride and joy. It’s a 1924 6A Super Racer with a 350 JAP engine – the only surviving example in the world. I restored it four years ago and use it a lot. The most modern bike I own is a 1940 Triumph Speed

Twin that I use as my daily ride. Believe me, I’m just as bad as the rest of you.

So, I’m passionate about old bikes, but what can I bring to H&H’S 2021 auction season? Well, what I’m really looking forward to is the events scene getting back on track. I love meeting classic bike folk at shows and events as well as sales. It’s the best environment to get to know people. And if you can combine that with business, you’re onto a winner. I’m also passionate about customer service and satisfaction. I want everyone – buyers and sellers – to enjoy a great experience at H&H sales.

We have three sales planned at the NMM this year and I’d love to see them return to the live audience format. That might be a bit optimistic for the first one on April 28, but maybe by the summer, we might be back to something like normal.

As a vintage fan, it heartens me to say that good, rideable ’20s bikes are still in demand. I’d really like to see more younger riders getting involved in the vintage and pre-war scene – I’m convinced they’d love it as much as I do.

Mike has worked for H&H for almost three years. His particular weakness is for prewar machines such as New Imperials. handh.co.uk