After meeting for the Club’s Third Saturday Ride in Utopia March 16th, John Sires, John Hawley, Randy Logan and his wife Jackie, and Geoff Gauger headed to the Loan Star Motorcycle Museum nestled in the rolling hills near Lost Maples State Park. The museum holds a world-class collection of over 60 cycles from around the world, many of which are British and date from the 1910’s to the modern. The impressive collection provides a glimpse into how motorcycles have evolved over the years.
Upon entering the museum, we were awed with the array of bikes, and it was hard not to be overwhelmed by the impressive display that was laid out before us. The group strolled through the exhibit of isles and isles of amazing, exceptionally kept machines. Seeing so many bikes from the past stimulated fond memories and started conversations of experiences with our own previously owned motorbikes.
The museum was originally a place for Australian expat, Alan Johncock, to store motorcycles, lathes, mills, presses and other tools used for restoration. Soon after, word got out about his collection and folks started showing up to "kick the tires" and visit the place, creating the genesis of the Lone Star Motorcycle Museum. Museum construction began in 1999 and was completed in 2003. The museum has now become a destination for bikers from around the world, with some weekends seeing as many as 400 walking through on a busy weekend. In 2005 the Ace Café opened and served meat pies (an Australian fast-food delicacy) burgers, and extras. With Alan’s recent passing the Ace Café is no more.
The museum is a must stop for any cyclist touring the Texas Hill Country and a place to relive a small piece of history. It’s located at 36517 Highway 187, Vanderpool, TX (approximately 4 miles north of Vanderpool), https://lonestarmotorcyclemuseum.com/, phone: (830) 966-6103. The posted open/closed times and dates are:
- March-April, Fri, Sat & Sun 10AM-?
- June-August, Fri, Sat & Sun 10AM-3PM
- December-February Closed
However, it is recommended to call before heading out to ensure it is open.