BOSTON  BIKE  NIGHT

This is an annual event run by the Boston Motorcycle Riders’ Association, (BMRA) and it is one of the largest free motorcycle meetings in Lincolnshire.  Support for the event is given by the local council and the police force.  The local council allows use of two large car parks, although even all this space was not enough;  over 3500 bikes turned up, with an estimated 7000 riders and spectators.  When  I arrived at 6,30 pm the car park was rapidly filling up.  I spotted a gap alongside a three-wheeled car;  the rest of the immediate area was covered by 14 trikes.  These ranged in size from medium to huge.

Talking to Paul, a member of BMRA, he told me that this is a huge social biking event that appeals to people of all ages and backgrounds.  This year was the 16^th such meeting here.  The town was packed, which must be good for local businesses.

The organising club does not charge for club stands.  There was a good mixture of trade stands and a variety of food outlets.  These were busy all night long.  I had to queue to get a hot dog a 9 pm, it was that busy.

Steve Plater turned up, even though he had recently been injured.  There was live music.  The organisers try to get local bands to play.  Two bands were booked for the night and they certainly belted the tunes out.

The oldest motorcycle that I spotted was on the Royal Enfield Club stand;  this was a two stroke from the 1920s.  An Enfield dealer set his trade stand up next to the club stand, thus keeping the Enfields together.  I hung around the Enfield stand for a while.  They had two outfits on display, and these proved to be a good talking point.  Hopefully the Fed could gain a few new members.  A newcomer to sidecars told me that he had been waiting by my outfit for me to return.  He later found me at the Enfield stand.  I was wearing my Fed T-shirt, so this helped him to spot me.

This was a great night out.  I will go again next year.  However, I would like to get there about 5.30 pm so that I can see more of the bikes as they arrive.  There were signs at the car park entrances warning car owners to remove their vehicles before 5 pm.  The bands played on to 10 pm. 

This was a great night, and very well organised.  Well done BMRA.  See you next year.

                                                                                                                          Roy and Chris