In the spirit of the recently launched maxim of the FIVA Motorcycle Commission, ‘Classic Bikes - Ride Don’t Hide’, the Motorcycle Division of the FIVA ANF in Mexico, the Mexican Federation of Antique and Collector Automobiles (FEMAAC), arranged that for the first time, motorcycles be put on display at the La Gala Internacional Del Automóvil (International Automobile Gala - ‘La Gala’), the two-day exhibition held on March 1 and 2, 2025 in conjunction with the International Symposium “What is Original? And What Isn’t …”.
This success came following several months of active recruitment of owners by the Motorcycle Division, gathering a total of thirty-five motorcycles. It bears mention that this is the first time in Mexico that motorcycles have been eligible to receive awards in a historic vehicle exhibition. Although FEMAAC hoped to have an even greater presence of motorcycles, nonetheless, this success marked a great start and will serve to further publicize the activities of the division. Already there have been a great number of inquiries received for participation in the next event, and FEMAAC has no doubt that that the presence of historic motorcycles will continue to grow which, in turn, will support and strengthen the activities of the FEMAAC Motorcycle Division to promote and preserve motorcycles.
At the La Gala, there were three award categories by which the winners were as follows: (i) Best Restored: 1939 BMW R12; (ii) Best Preserved/FIVA Award: 1984 Yamaha RZ 350 (Kenny Roberts); and (iii) Best of the Gala: 1942 Harley-Davidson ‘Knucklehead’. In respect to the motorcycles that were runner-ups, each was invited on-stage to receive special mention for their participation.
From the audience one could not only see the great enthusiasm from the audience but also feel the multitude of positive emotions of the winners. It bears particular mention that the 2025 FIVA Motorcycle Commission pins with the maxim ‘Classic Bikes - Ride Don’t Hide’ proved to be extremely popular and were in high demand. There is no doubt that Mexico has much room for growth for historic motorcycles and the Motorcycle Division of FEMAAC will continue to capitalize upon the momentum gained from the La Gala exhibition. It goes without saying that such success came from a well-organized team and special thanks goes out to Antonio Arderiu, Ernesto Bächtold, Carlos Ortiz, and Carmen González. The support and backing of FEMAAC President Gerardo García was especially appreciated. It is hoped that future events like these will encourage owners to indeed not store and ‘hide’, but ride, exhibit and appreciate the use of their motorcycles.
Text and Pictures
Carmen González D’Asseo