This January, the Outdoor Sports Expo Group hosted its 6th annual 'Springfield Motorcycle Show' at the 'Big E' in Western Springfield, Mass.
My experience with this location is at the fair in the fall eating fried oreos (yum) and corndogs; I have never been to an event inside and I certainly was not expecting the lines above. Thankfully the weather cooperated and it wasn't too cold, otherwise I'da turned right around. To be fair, the line moved quickly, probably 20 minutes to get through, but seriously...they need more than two people selling tickets. Not sure who to blame, the venue or the sponsor but kinda ridiculous in the dead of winter to have to wait outside for so long. But anyway, that's my rant for the day...on to the show.
Crowds seemed especially heavy on Saturday, which could have been because of the storm the previous evening kept people away or more likely was because the headliner of the show was 'Mikey Tetul' from 'Orange County Choppers'. He, along with two of his castmates, Vinnie & Cody attended all three days and were there to greet fans and sign autographs. Mikey seemed exactly like his character, a big loveable teddy bear - he was sportin' a new 'do and looking good. If you are a fan of the show, you know that he is now an 'artist'. Several of his paintings were on display...very colorful...and that's all I have to say 'bout that. After OCC, Cody & Vinnie branched off to form their own shop and brought along several of their custom bikes
Local charitable organizations were in attendance seeking support for their causes. There were quite a few 'save the boobies' type of charities...I guess because bikers like boobies so they will give in order to save them? I don't know...I would have expected more 'save the peepees' at a bike show, but I don't think there is such a thing...yet.
'Best in Show' goes to the display below - the empty boots and hat were a tribute to our fallen heroes and their loved ones left behind. A somber reminder to us all of the sacrifices made by our military and their families...
Another charitable organization attending the show were the Shriners...did you know that the hat they wear is called a 'Fez'? Named after the city it was manufactured in - Fez, Morrocco. Bet ya didn't know that...I didn't either. I always thought it was the Grand Poobah Water Buffalo Hat...darn Flinstones.
So, I hung around for a bit to watch the transformation from dewy face young woman to bloody, mutilated zombie with her face ripped. The results were so realistic and creepy that I expected they would be making an appearance in an upcoming nightmare. It's close to midnight, and something evil's lurking in the dark...
Attorney Haymond's ladies, a staple at bike events, appeared in a fashion show hosted by a local radio DJ. Boots, chaps and all kinds of leather were modeled for the eager audience.
How's my butt look?
On the sidelines was pin-up girl Dinah Deville, who was there with New England Biker to greet her fans...best pic I could get, sorry! Stay tuned for next post, I have a few you're gonna like, guaranteed.
With all of the entertainment, it's easy to forget about the starts of the show and the reason why we all leave our warm homes on a frigid New England day...the bikes.
Old School
This was the bike I voted for, for fan favorite...bling-bling
So shiny and pretty..ya think that is the reaction builder hoped for?
Vendors for all budgets were on display from clothing and jewelry to parts and accessories sold by local motorcycle stores. Plenty for everyone...
It was a fun afternoon, straight out of Hollywood with pin-up girls, television starts and zombies. I'm looking forward to next January to see what surprises OSEG has up their sleeves. Paul, Sr. perhaps? I hear he needs the money.
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