Norton News 201A - Flipbook - Page 15
thoroughly modern. I’m sure these will be nice bikes, well
built and capable, but I don’t expect to own one. Due to the
unavoidable march of time, I personally am riding very little
these days, and I suspect that’s true for many of us. A good
running Commando is beautiful to look at and a joy to hear,
but on some days it’s more than I can handle on the road. It
pains me to admit that, but I have to be realistic, just accept
and deal with it. I do have a BSA Bantam B175 that is light
enough that I can pick it up if needed, and it’s a nice ride at
reasonable speed on local back roads. But I sure miss the
thrill of my Commando on a fast sweeper in third gear. Sadly,
those days are mostly over for me. Sigh . . .
Mr. George Barber, the creator of Barber Motorsports Park,
has passed away. Mr. Barber created one of the most unique
motorsports venues in the world outside Birmingham,
Alabama. As well as the largest collection of motorcycles in
the world, as attested to by the Guinness Book of World
Records, he also amassed the largest collection of Lotus
cars in the world and, arguably the largest collection of
antique outboard motors in the world. He housed all this in a
magni昀椀cent building, surrounded by beautiful grounds and a
world class race track.
He will be missed. Godspeed.
Number 201
12
Norton News
