Today was another wonderful day filled with friends and antique motorcycles! The race hasn’t even officially started yet, but the excitement is everywhere. Riders spent the morning getting their VINs checked, finishing up last-minute paperwork, and then heading out on their practice maps to shake down their bikes and stretch their legs. The sound of engines revving and the sight of century-old machines cruising around made the day feel alive with anticipation.
We were thrilled to welcome some new teams rolling in today! Kat, Kiyo, and Kaz joined us all the way from Los Angeles. From across the ocean, Samuele, Luca, Davide, and Zapo made the trip from Italy. And for their very first endurance run, we have Dan Gafford, Nathan Grubb, Norm Berg, Bart Grelinger, and Danger Dan. It’s so fun seeing fresh faces join the adventure and become part of this family.
The hotel parking lots were buzzing with laughter, tinkering, and test rides, exactly the kind of camaraderie that makes this run so special. One of our photographers, Olivier Touron, even captured some stunning shots at Bodie Island Lighthouse, a truly beautiful and historic backdrop for the bikes.
After a day of riding and wrenching, we gathered for our pre-race banquet at Jennette’s Pier. What a setting! Jennette’s is the oldest fishing pier in North Carolina, and it made for the perfect spot to celebrate the night before launch. Pigman’s BBQ fed us well, and the evening was filled with stories, laughter, and plenty of fun with friends old and new.
Now the bags are packed, the bikes are ready, and everyone’s gearing up for an early 7 AM start. We cannot wait to get this thing rolling! None of this would be possible without our incredible riders and crews, so all the applause and appreciation goes to you.
Get ready… tomorrow it begins. Day 1 of the Motorcycle TransAm is here!
Sounds like a terrific pre start event to sort everything out, or as much as possible, before the start of the cross country adventure tomorrow. Best of luck and safe travels to everyone!! 🏁🏍️🏁👍🏻
Wish ALL involved the best, on and off the bikes. What a trip. Would love the opportunity to participate one day. I’ve got 8 years to go before my oldest will qualify. Will watch with anticipation every day. Good luck riders.
Good look to all of the riders and bikes. Anche tanti auguri a tutti gli italiani, buona fortuna – “in bocca al lupo” !!
Safe travels on your great adventure. Best wishes to all the support teams and officials. Most importantly, have fun.
good luck everyone, specially to Samu and Luca from Italy 🙂
maurizio.merlini@intesasanpaolo.com
Good luck and safe travels. Can’t wait to see you in Statesville!
Bill L.
In bocca al lupo!