Thousands converge on Kirkcaldy for outstanding bike display

Glorious sunshine brought petrolheads from all over Scotland to Kirkcaldy at the weekend for the third annual Bikes in the Park event and its 'most successful yet.'
Crowds at the park. All pics by FPACrowds at the park. All pics by FPA
Crowds at the park. All pics by FPA

Hundreds of gleaming, and some not so shiny, motorbikes from the 1920s onwards including classic, vintage, modern, trail, motocross, scooters, trikes and road bikes took over one side of the park in a stunning display organised by Kirkcaldy and District Motor Club.

There were 160 official entries in the show, but over 600 bikes lined half of the park’s perimeter, providing a very eyecatching spectacle. And those judging the winners in 30 different categories had a very difficult time trying to pick their favourites from the fantastic array on show.

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There were also some well known faces from the past when the Beveridge Park circuit was famous for motorbike racing from the 1940s to 80s, and old friendships were rekindled and glory days recounted around the park.

Hannah Neilson (8) from Kirkcaldy tries out one of the exhibitsHannah Neilson (8) from Kirkcaldy tries out one of the exhibits
Hannah Neilson (8) from Kirkcaldy tries out one of the exhibits

It was also a real family event with generations of family members going along to spend time wandering around the exhibits from vintage Nortons to breathtaking Harley Davidsons. And some of the stunning paintwork on the bikes also provided a great talking point, with everything from wolves and native American Indians to the Grim Reaper.

As well as the extensive display, there were a variety of trade stands offering everything from bike parts and accessories to clothing. And the Nationwide Association of Blood Bikes, which delivers emergency blood supplies to hospitals, and the Association of Advanced Motorists were also in attendance.

Several fairground rides kept the younger visitors entertained, and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service also made an appearance in the afternoon.

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And Kirkcaldy Rugby Club opened its clubhouse to provide refreshments and toilets for the visitors.

Bikes of all descriptions were on showBikes of all descriptions were on show
Bikes of all descriptions were on show

Trophies for the various prizewinners came from a number of local business sponsors as well as the families of former racers and members of the motor club themselves.

And this year a new trophy for the Best in Show was won by Leven man Gary Mercer who spent a year doing up a 250cc Honda in tribute to famous racer Joey Dunlop, winner of the most TT races in its history.

The Motor Club member took the Robert Gourlay Memorial Trophy put up by his family in memory of Robert who raced for the club for many years.

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David Torrance, Kirkcaldy MSP who attended the event, said: “This is an absolutely fantastic event which has brought so many families to the park and all the hard work done by Kirkcaldy and District Motor Cycle Club has certainly paid off.

Living life in the fast laneLiving life in the fast lane
Living life in the fast lane

“Events like these are great to raise the town’s profile and they should be encouraged.”

Jake Drummond, club secretary, said: “It was an excellent day and by far our most successful yet. We reckon there were around 4000 visitors there.

“We would like to thank everyone who took part, some coming from many miles away, including Arran and Ballater, and to all the visitors who helped make it a huge success.”