THE SEELEY-TAIT RACER. A 40-Year Love Affair
Bobby Haas is a bike collector, author, Nat Geo photographer and ex-financier who is currently working hard on his latest endeavour, the Haas Moto Museum in Dallas. He owns five Hazan bikes amongst 160 others and when he’s not bidding at moto auctions, he likes to write. As a guy who knows more than most on the joyous cultural phenomenon that is motorcycling, we asked him if he would write for us; this is the result.
As I stare, white-knuckled and barely breathing, at the trucker unloading the famous three-cylinder 492cc Seeley-Tait customized racer that I managed to capture at Bonhams Spring Stafford Sale, the thoughts that ricochet through my mind, strangely enough, are thoughts of love ? how love is a long and winding road with potholes and loose gravel that add intrigue to an otherwise pedestrian journey. I am reminded of the time I was knocking down a brew at the local saloon and overheard two fellows within easy earshot discussing the tumultuous love affair that one was in the midst of. Â With elbows perched on the bar and hands pressed against his forehead, the one who did most of the talking lamented, ?You know, I am deeply in love with her, but it?s been such a rough road at times. I?m just not sure I can handle it anymore ? maybe I should just back away for a while.? Â After ordering another round of lager, his confidante turned to him and said, in a very measured tone, ?Love is not a game you play from the sidelines ? it?s not safe and it?s not withou...
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Backcountry Discovery Routes | Ep. 70 Rider Magazine Insider Podcast
27-04-2024 08:34 - (
motorcycle )