After a gratifying litter pickup along FM 473, five Club members rode on to take in the superb collection of ’50s, 60s, and ‘70s cycles at the Texas Vintage Motorcycle Museum (TVMM). The museum resides in a lovingly restored 1930s Model‑A Ford showroom packed with vintage charm, including original showroom flooring, hydraulic lift, and ceiling tiles. It’s located in Johnson City, and a gem to visit for both cycle enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
The museum is more than a collection of 112 motorcycles, it's also a tribute to vintage two-wheelers, personal resilience, and the motorcycle community. The bikes on display range from iconic Japanese manufacturers—Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, Kawasaki, to European marques like BMW, Ducati, Moto Guzzi, Triumph, Norton, and BSA, as well as Harleys. Whether a rider, history buff, or casual traveler, the TVMM offers visitors a meaningful journey into the craftsmanship and character of mid-century motorcycles.
The proprietor and avid collector and restorer, Gordon Massie, founded the museum in 2021. He shared with us a little of himself and offered a brief introduction into how the museum started. He grew up in California and later worked in finance in Houston, moved to the Hill Country following personal tragedy. As a result, he channeled his grief into passion, bringing his collection, once numbered in the eighties, to its permanent home in Johnson City.
Some of the notable bikes in the collection are a rare 1931 Harley‑Davidson DLD, the museum’s oldest machine; a beautiful 1967 Bultaco Metralla, once the fastest two‑stroke street bike; a military-issued 1942 Harley‑Davidson WLA “Liberator”; and a striking 1955 Norton Manx 350, compete with its distinctive dustbin fairing. The most notable bike is the stunning custom “Sling Blade”, which is presently for sale if you’re interested.
The museum doesn’t only display bikes but also immerses visitors in motorcycle culture with era-specific memorabilia, period ads, and accessories. There’s also a cozy lounge, where on any given Sunday, volunteer docents (often retired locals) offer storytelling sessions sprinkled with sardines, Champagne, and saltines at the adjacent Biker Chic boutique. So, Sundays are the best time to peek at the bikes and get a lecture at the same time.
Plan for at least 1 hour, but more if you want to explore or chat with the Gordon who, with a little coaxing, will provide a personal narrative of loss, healing, lifelong devotion. The cost is $6.25 + tax. The hours are 11 am–6 pm, Thursday–Sunday, (plus holiday Mondays). Closed Mon–Wed.
