Get into gear with Fleet Lions

Karen Neville

The Lions Club of Fleet are revving up for the 38th Classic Motorcycle Run and Concours on bank holiday Monday, 5th May

Get the bike out of the garage! Change the oil! Check the plugs! And give it a polish!, unless it is in wonderful “as original” condition, then please don’t show it the polishing rag it will have a heart attack! 

Impassioned words from Fleet Lions who are looking forward to this year’s motorcycle run. The event normally attracts well over 200 entrants with bikes ranging from the early 1900’s to the later classics, with condition varying from untouched original to gleaming concours restoration. Riders come from far and wide around the South East to take part, as it has become a well-established event in the enthusiasts calendar. 

If you have been before but not for the last few years or are a virgin in the classic bike world, join the Lions for their 38th run from the car park around the Hampshire and Berkshire countryside and returning for the Concours in the afternoon. 

The route will be the tried, tested and much loved route that has been ridden for many years, which if you have not been before uses good country roads, not one-track lanes with loose gravel in the middle. 

The event returned last year after a four-year hiatus and despite the slightly damp weather around 100 passionate bike enthusiasts with an impressive array of machines ranging from 50cc to 1,000cc joined in.  

One of those taking part Sarah recalled: “I’ve been coming to the Classic Bike Rally for over a decade, and this year was extra special. After the long break, seeing familiar faces and the incredible variety of bikes brought back so many wonderful memories. My favourite moment was when my son, who is now old enough to ride, joined me on his own bike. It was a proud and emotional experience for both of us.” 

Fleet Lions expect to have several hundred amazing bikes for this year’s event enjoying a fabulous ride out at 11am before returning for judging by 2.15pm. Riders arrive between 9.30am and 10.30am. Hot rolls and drinks will be available.  

The Run will start at The Key car park, Elvetham Heath, Fleet GU51 1HA and after approximately one mile will follow the tried and tested marked route out to the Hampshire / Berkshire borders using good but not too busy roads before returning to Fleet on the second part of the run for judging the Concours, a good chat, the raffle and prize-giving of the Concours classes.