Motorcycles as Art - Ninth Annual Quail Motorcycle Gathering

Motorcycles as Art - Ninth Annual Quail Motorcycle Gathering

Even absent perfect weather, the ninth Quail Motorcycle Gathering in Carmel Valley, Calif. showcased some exceptional motorcycles and quite a few swell ones. The gray clouds and chill winds had the elder attendees bundled up, but the rain stayed away and the soft light made for nice photos.

A hundred riders joined Friday’s 100-or-so-mile arrival ride, the pre-Quail prequel (There’s also a shorter Saturday morning ride, with some bikes entered in the judging.) Some riders characterized the weather as brisk, while others called it bracing, and a few said it was really freakin’ cold. The ride wound up at the Moto Talbott Collection in Carmel Valley, followed by a catered buffet lunch. Rob Talbott’s ecletic assembly of vintage on- and off-road bikes impressed one and all.

This year “The Quail’s” featured marque was Norton “featuring 50 Years of the Commando,” and there were plenty of fine examples on hand. Kenny Roberts was honored as a Legend of the Sport during the show. And, once again, the range and depth of imaginative moto-builders in all categories was on display at the traditional riding season opener on the central coast. The photos below show some of the highlights. For more on the event, visit www.latimes.com