Five motorcycles that caught the photographer’s attention on The Quail

As a photographer, I can count on The Quail to deliver some visual treats, and this year is no exception. Here are five bikes that drew me to a beautiful spring Saturday in Carmel Valley, California.

Square barrel Triumph Trophy TR5 1950

My first motorcycle was a Triumph Thruxton, so, admittedly, I belong to the British brand. However, this TR5 immediately popped into me. With classic proportions, a black frame and silver and chrome paint, visually this motorcycle has something to love. Looking away, the square-barrel engine was originally used as an electric generator and created energy for the British Lancaster bombers. Triumph needed to do something with the supplements and decided to put them on the bike. Lightweight and powerful, these engines have enjoyed great success on the street and among amateur racers.

1951 Vincent Rapid commissioned by Max Hazan

Choosing five bikes from 250 entrants is hard, but this one was easy. Max has built some stunning bikes over the years, and this Vincent is a new appreciation for a builder from Los Angeles. When his client dropped the donor engine, his only guide was to “do whatever you want”. If you give any of Max’s talents freedom, the results can be extraordinary. The man even built his carburetors! This motorcycle has won this year’s Best of Show award and is among a number of motorcycles that are considered the best of the best.

BMW R69US 1968 in blue metallic color

Blue metallic was a special order option in 1968 and was extremely rare. It took more than five months and five attempts to pick up the color for this restoration. The R69S was a BMW sports bike of its time, and this color lends a stunning style to an already classic car.

1937 Norton Racing International

As a photographer, I’m a sucker for a patina bike. Especially if this character is the result of a long history of racing motorcycles. Beginning his life as one of six motorcycles built by Norton for the 1937 Manc Grand Prix, Bertie W. Rowell participated in it and took third place that year. In 1938 he will take part in the race, also taking third place. After World War II he participated in the Menza races in 1947 and again in 1948. However, during the 1948 competition, he suffered a major disaster. After the renovation was completed by the Norton plant, it spent most of the next 30 years in dismantled condition. Now, back in working order, this is an amazing example of a Norton racer.

1950 BSA B34 to order

Owner and builder Richard Mitchell caught a bug in cycling after visiting Quail a few years ago. This BSA order is his second build, it’s just gorgeous with a great fit and finish. His goal was to create a sleek and modern design that still retains the character of the original bike. There is something to see on this bike. Check out these solid brass carburetors!

Honorary award: 1928 children’s tricycle

Quail accepts an incredible variety of machines, but you can count on them all to be unique and impeccable quality. This children’s tricycle is perfect. So casual and absolutely cool.