The final stage of the Motorcycle TransAm was short on miles but big on heart. Riders had just 125 miles to cover today, a treat after so many long grinds. We started out in the lush Oregon forest, rolling toward the coast then to Highway 101. The fog was so thick in the morning that you could barely see the ocean even though you were riding right beside it.
A few hiccups popped up along the way, but every problem was fixed quickly and the riders kept moving. Two miles from the finish everyone gathered to ride the last stretch as a group. It was pure celebration as they came in together, a fitting end for a field that has shown so much grit and determination from day one.
The official finish was on the coast at the beautiful Heceta Head Lighthouse. Mike Butts led the pack across the line, with Frank Westfall in second and Erik Bahl in third. Cheers and hugs broke out as every rider made it in safe and sound. We poured water from the Atlantic into the Pacific just like Effie and Eva Hodgkins did on their historic cross-country ride. A giant group photo captured the moment before we all headed to the hotel on the ocean.
That evening we celebrated with a beautiful banquet at Driftwood Shores. Awards went to our top three finishers, followed by the True Grit Awards for Bart Grelinger and for Kat & Kiyo, who never stopped proving their determination. Choosing those winners was tough with so many competitors showing incredible resolve, from driving across states mid-event to changing a rear cylinder the night before the last day.
Our final award, the Spirit of the TransAm, went to Bill and Amy Page for embodying what this run is all about: helping others, never giving up, and showing up even when the odds say you are done.
We are going to miss this group so much. Thank you to our amazing sponsors, Legends Motorcycles, Sinless Cycles, Competition Distributing, Antique Motorcycle Club of America, and Veritas Vintage, for helping us bring this unforgettable journey to life.
What an ending to an incredible adventure.
Photos by: Kazuo Matsumoto
Sponsored by: Legends Motorcycles, Sinless Cycles, Competition Distributing, Veritas Vintage, Antique Motorcycle Club of America
I heard you were all coming to McMinnville, I live in Wesr Salwm not far from there. I hopped on my Street glide and rode out to see and meet some of you. I am so glad I did. Talking to the riders and learning about their bikes was so cool! I cannot even imagine how tired everyone was yet they still found time to talk to me. I only hopped on to see the end of your journey & grateful I did!
People today throw away things that are old, or have problems. Thanks for maintaining these bikes and riding them across the US so we may follow your accomplishments in our hearts and minds.
Congratulations!
What an event, loved following every day. I don’t know how you would do it but this trip would make a fantastic documentary. Thank you for sharing everything.
Hi guys Stephen Aretz here AKA Hot Shot .
I like to be a part of the next race The Loop . Like to see the rules & get ready if it meets our schedule next year.
I Have a couple 45s HD I appreciate this opportunity. Thanks
Hotshot@hotshotwelding.com
Nathon is a good friend wish he had better luck 🍀 .