Motorcycles to Show at '09 Pebble Beach Concours

The promotors of the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance announced that for the first time, motorcycles will grace the manicured grounds of the legendary annual event. Scheduled for Sunday, August 16, the event is renowned for its display of Bentleys, Ferraris, Bugattis, Delahayes, and more. These storied marques will be joined by a collection of classic bikes, including Vincents, Brough Superiors, Nortons BSAs, Velocettes, Triumphs, and Ariels, with a focus on British bikes.

“International interest in collecting classic motorcycles is on the rise, and we want to celebrate them and do all we can to support their preservation and restoration,” said Sandra Kasky Button, Chairman of the Pebble Beach Concours. “These motorcycles will both complement and contrast the automobiles on our field. In a very real way, they expand on the history of the car; many early automakers started by making two- and three-wheelers — and some still do!”

Included among the British motorcycles heading to the 18th fairway will be two legendary Vincent HRD V-Twins — the famed 1947 works racing machine known affectionately as “Gunga Din” (pictured) and a 1948 bike built for US sportsman John Edgar and often nicknamed the “Bathing Suit Bike” due to the scant attire of its primary rider, Roland “Rollie” Free.

More details about the event can be found at www.pebblebeachconcours.net.

Maserati Launches Track Car

A limited number of Maserati GranTurismo MC (for Maserati Corse, or race) European competition cars are being constructed for both GT4 European Cup events and a 2010 Maserati single-make cup series. So those who want a track version of the Maserati GranTurismo S now have an option. The 4.7-liter V8 carries over, as well as the 6-speed electrohydraulic (F1) rear transaxle. The car is constructed of carbon fiber and was engineered and built with a full complement of track safety equipment.