The Texas M/C Revival has become the go-to late-season vintage motorcycle show in Texas. Now in its fifth year at the Motorheads Museum in Burnet, the November show attracted 119 entries from across Texas featuring bikes from all eras and continents.
Represented were 1930s American iron to Italian Benellis and Moto Guzzis, with big contingents of British and Japanese bikes from the early ’50s to the ’80s. That eclectic collection was reflected in the two main show winners: People’s Choice going to Ron Anderson’s 1927 Flat Track Indian and the Ronnie Lundsford Memorial Award going to Duncan McCulley’s 1970 Honda CB750.
Added attractions for the 1,000-plus visitors were the participation of multiple vintage motorcycle groups including the Vintage Scooters and the Lone Star Section of the Vincent Owners Club. It’s all about the motorcycles, with everyone talking to fellow enthusiasts and learning history from passionate owners. Museum owners Pat and Janell Hanlon displayed their Texas hospitality by opening the museum’s doors to show off their collection of more than 150 vintage bikes and memorabilia displays.
Special guest Bubba Shobert, a three-time AMA Grand National Champion and AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer, was among the crowd. Shobert’s presence was a reminder of the tight-knit community that surrounds the world of vintage motorcycles. Known for his racing prowess in the 1980s, Shobert mingled with fans and shared stories of his legendary career, a highlight for many who attended.
The Revival draws visitors and participants from all ages and walks of life with amazing stories of their love affairs with motorcycles. Tai Nguyen, a retired California Highway Patrol motor officer, drove in from San Antonio with two of his meticulously maintained icons from the 1980s — his 1985 Yamaha RZ350 two-stroke and 1986 Suzuki GSX-R750. Tai purchased that GSX-R new in 1986 upon graduation from the police training academy. According to Tai, “In 1985 I was looking at a RZ350 to buy, but a buddy told me to wait. He said Suzuki was bringing something called a GSX-R750 to the U.S. He showed me a photo of the Gixxer and it was love at first sight, and I didn’t buy the RZ350 at that time. In 1986, after completion of the CHiPs probation period, I bought the GSX-R as a present to myself. I’ve had numerous other bikes, but this GSX-R is a keeper. After a 35-year career, I retired three years ago, but the GSX-R is still with me.”
The atmosphere at the Revival was electric, with young and old moving down the rows of bikes. This type of participatory event includes everyone in the conversation. The chatter was regularly interrupted by the barking exhaust of some vintage engine quickly started following the question, “What does it sound like?” The Revival is the type of event that brings new enthusiasts into vintage motorcycles, by highlighting the beauty and thrill of keeping these old machines on the road. MC
Highland Lakes Squadron of the Commemorative Air Force
If you’re in Burnet for the Texas M/C Revival, make sure to carve out some time to visit the nearby Highland Lakes Squadron of the Commemorative Air Force. Located at the Kate Craddock Airfield, this museum is a gem for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The Highland Lakes Squadron is dedicated to preserving and restoring historic aircraft, many of which played significant roles in World War II.
The collection includes some remarkable planes, such as the 1943 T-6 Texan, a training aircraft used to prepare American pilots for combat. The T-6 is still in working condition, maintained with care by the CAF team. The museum also houses the C-47 Sky Train “Texas Zephyr,” a transport plane that served during the war. Their biggest event is the annual Bluebonnet Airshow in March. This event includes air shows, fly-overs by current U.S. Air Force jets, ride-alongs in vintage aircraft, and a fly-in of antique planes from around the country.
The Highland Lakes Squadron is a must-see for anyone visiting Burnet, providing a fascinating glimpse into aviation history that complements the vintage motorcycling experience at Hill Country Motorheads.
Visit Hill Country Motorheads
For anyone who appreciates the beauty and history of motorcycles, a visit to Hill Country Motorheads is a must. Located just outside Burnet, Texas, the museum offers a wonderful collection of vintage bikes, along with the opportunity to experience the camaraderie and passion of the motorcycling community. The Texas M/C Revival is the perfect time to visit, offering not only an expanded museum display of about 140 motorcycles but also the chance to meet legends of the sport and connect with fellow enthusiasts.
From the meticulously restored motorcycles to the welcoming spirit of the Revival, Hill Country Motorheads captures the essence of motorcycling’s golden age and offers a glimpse into the world that Pat and Janell Hanlon have so lovingly preserved.
- Hill Country Motorheads: 2001 West State Hwy 29, Burnet, Texas 78611; Phone 512-553-4078
- Operating Hours: Wednesday through Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed major holidays and from December 15 through January 31.
- General Admission: $8 for seniors (over 65), $6 for active military/veterans/first responders/teachers/medical, $6 for children, under 12 free with an adult.
