Everything's set for a vintage weekend of classic motorcycle entertainment at the 14th Coupes Moto Légende, which takes place on 3 and 4 June at the Dijon-Prenois circuit in the heart of France's famed Bourgogne wine region.
Throughout the weekend the air will reverberate to the roars, splutters and whimpers of classic machinery as more than 1000 pre-1977 motorcycles entertain the crowds in non-stop track sessions. You'll see everything from Grand Prix screamers to obscure pre-war curiosities with wicker side-cars. As ever, the French enthusiasts' flair for authentic period costumes makes Coupes Moto Légende a unique banquet of nostalgia.
One of the reasons that Coupes Moto Légende has grown to become Europe's largest classic motorcycle festival is its unique informality. As you wander freely through pit and paddock you can get up close to a host of stars, including seven-times world champion Phil Read, as they prepare to take to the track. Other star attractions include English enthusiast George Beale's Honda 350-6 replicas. These faithful re-creations of the fabled 1960s six-cylinder GP racers debuted at Dijon in 2004. Now, after two years of fine tuning, you can expect to see them at full chat.
On the in-field, you can take your ear-plugs out and savour the dizzying variety of machinery in the club area with more than 1000 marques displayed on 100-plus stands. And with 300-plus autojumble and trade stands there's every chance of finding that vital spare part or period accessory.
Then, as the sun goes down the wooded in-field becomes enchanted as barbecues light up among the trees, corks are pulled and music, laughter and chat float through the night air. The perfect way to end a classic day.
P&0 DISCOUNT TRAVEL To help accommodate the thousands of British enthusiasts who travel to Coupes Moto Légende each year the organisers have arranged a discount travel package with P&0 Ferries. Depending on time and day of travel, fares for a bike and two passengers can be as low as £40. To take advantage of the discounts call 08705 980333 and quote reference 91267.
EVENT INFO
A weekend ticket costs 21 Euros (free for children under 12). Better still, if you turn up on a pre-1965 bike it's free for the rider. The circuit opens each day at 8.30am; track sessions run from 9am to 7pm. For latest news, travel directions, accommodation and other useful info click on to coupes-moto-legende.fr or phone 00 331 60 71 55 15.
