Polished steel, exhaust, gaskets, clutches and torque. If the first image that popped up was of an automobile, then you'd be half correct. Cut the car in two, remove the roof and add a kickstand then finally the finished product might look something like a motorcycle. However, if seeing motorcycles in abstract daydreams isn't enough to please, then Lemay - America's Car Museum in Tacoma is sure to hold people over.
Meet at the Ace: a Summer Shakedown, set for this weekend, marks the debut of an event that showcases vintage motorcycles and scooters from a plethora of celebrated makers such as Harley-Davidson, Ducati, Triumph, BMW and more. Attendees can patrons can expect a welcome handful of entertainment, music and food.
"Many of us are motorcyclists within the LeMay board administration," said Burt Richmond, co-chairman of Meet at the Ace. "We felt that we needed to do a festival that really reached further than just four wheel interest, and see if we could put something together that would attract more people and invite a larger net of folks who are interested in two or three wheels."
The festival will display rare and classic motorcycles and scooters from the turn of the 20th century up until the year 1980, all of which still run. These mechanical works of art span from all across the globe, from North America to Europe.
"We would like to introduce people to the motorcycling world," Richmond said. "We've invited 20 manufacturers like Honda, Harley, Triumph and Ducati; just to name a few, that will be showcasing modern products you can actually buy at your local dealership."
But there's more to this celebration than it appears. Meet at the Ace will also feature live bands on rotation from 3 to 7 p.m., countless food vendors, a concours, swap meet and even motorcycle themed movies. Participants will additionally be able to savor a ride on a motor bike around the 3.5 acre Haub Family Field, or even enjoy watching a bicycle motocross stunt display.
Ticket prices to the event, which includes admission to the museum, are $25 for adults, military/students/seniors (65 and older) are $18, youth (ages 5-12) are $8 and children 5 and younger are free. Tickets can be purchased at the event.
A "Ride to Rainier" will take place Aug. 26 as part of the motorcycle festival and in conjunction with Vintage Motorcycle Enthusiasts (VME).