Most of the year, the tiny central-Texas town of Luckenbach consists of a small post office, an old wooden dance hall and a few picnic tables. If you’ve heard of Luckenbach, you remember the Seventies, when the town became a gathering spot for local musical outlaws like Waylon, Willie and the boys.

In 2003, a group of friends held the first Harvest Classic rally, and a new tradition was born. That year and each October since, fans of classic European and vintage motorcycles have congregated in Luckenbach to share their appreciation of fine motorcycles. The event includes camping, a bike show, trials riding, a barbecue dinner, a bike-only drive-in theater featuring motorcycle-related films, as well as a raffle and live auction.

All proceeds from the Harvest Classic European and Vintage Motorcycle Rally go to benefit Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation. About 2,000 people came to the 2008 rally and over $140,000 has been raised and donated to charity since 2003.

This year the weather was fine and the turnout of superb machines impressive, including Vincents, Laverdas and other rarely seen bikes, many of which appeared to be ridden routinely. Both the quantity and level of finish of British, European and older American bikes have increased each year as word spreads about the high quality of the event.

The Harvest Classic Rally has quickly become the premier event in Texas for classic European and vintage motorcycles. The 2009 event will take place Oct. 23-24. More information about the Harvest Classic can be found at www.harvestclassic.org. MC