This is the day that those in the US set aside for giving thanks. It’s origins are the first autumn where the Pilgrims and the Native Americans sat down together to share the harvest. It has transformed into a day to gather around family and friends to eat, drink, and give thanks. Here is a short list of things that the devotees of vintage iron can give thanks for this year.

Riding/Driving Buddies. The guys and girls that harass you, compete with you, lend you their truck, laugh with you, tow you home, borrow your tools, help pick up your bike, reduce your average speed, store your vehicles, leave vehicles at your place, camp with you, elevate your top speed, order your favorite beverage, and otherwise support you.

Useable Vintage Vehicles. The pure pleasure of taking a vintage vehicle out on the roads, whether on a long trip, or a quick jaunt for a few hours. Build up your (s)mileage.

Backroads. Almost every area of this country is blessed with great backroads. They may not be right out your front door, but they are probably no more than minutes away. Many of these follow routes first developed by the original Americans, so you can thank them again.

Garage Therapy. There is nothing like escaping to the garage for a few hours to seek sanctuary from life. You can work on your non-useable vintage vehicle(s), but making actual progress on a project is always optional.

Diversity. Even within clubs and groups celebrating a single marque or a specific model, everyone likes slightly different stuff. This makes for rich and vibrant communities that appreciate the differences. If the Pilgrims and the first Americans can get along, and the early 911 concours guy can get along with the RSR clone guy, surely there is hope for peace in the middle east.

Happy Thanksgiving.

3 Replies to “On Giving Thanks”

  1. Dear Wayne:

    You certainly covered the lot of things to give thanks for — from the vintage rider viewpoint. I would include umbrella girls at major bike events too.

    Fondest regards,
    Jack/reep
    Twisted Roads

  2. A vintage car or vintage era is commonly defined as a car built between the start of 1919 and the end of 1930. The vintage era in the automotive world was a time of transition. Cars became much more practical, convenient and comfortable during this period.

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