MOTORCYCLE HALL OF FAME MUSEUM INVITES ENTRIES FOR JURIED 5TH ANNUAL CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE PICKERINGTON, OHIO – The Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum invites collectors, restorers and preservation-minded enthusiasts to submit an application for participation in the country’s largest by-invitation-only showcase of classic and collectible motorcycles. The Museum’s 5th annual Hall of Fame Concours d’Elegance, scheduled for Saturday, October 7, 2006 in conjunction with the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction weekend, is a juried show and only the most compelling original or painstakingly restored vintage motorcycles are invited to participate. Last year, over 100 exceptional motorcycles spanning all eras and marques vied for trophies and honors. The 2005 Hall of Fame Concours d’Elegance “Best of Show” winner was Ron Mousouris and his 1957 Honda Benly JC57. The Benly, a Japanese-only model never sold new in the United States, took Mousouris over three years to restore and is an example of the caliber of restoration that the selection committee seeks. However, quality of restoration and correctness aren’t the only selection criteria. Exceptionally preserved originals are also sought-after entries, as evidenced by last year’s Preservation Award winner, a 1955 Harley-Davidson FL. “Unlike many classic motorcycle showcases, our Motorcycle Hall of Fame Concours d’Elegance doesn’t merely reward owners for investing time and money in an impeccable restoration. Our panel of judges is equally impressed by unique provenance, a passion for preservation and the story behind a machine,” says Mark Mederski, executive director, Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum and the head of the Concours selection committee. According to Mederski, it is the stories that often prove as intriguing as the actual motorcycle. Last year Anthony Paluch showed his 1942 BMW R75WH complete with a sidecar, leather military saddlebags – and bullet holes. The bike most likely saw action during World War II. It was abandoned in Czechoslovakia and later reassembled by a German man who brought it to Canada when he moved. Eventually, Paluch purchased the bike on eBay, finished the restoration and was invited to show it at the 2005 Hall of Fame Concours d’Elegance. A warhorse among gleaming restorations, the motorcycle’s provenance nonetheless made it a much-admired entry. New applications for entry will be accepted until August 15, 2006. All applications meeting guidelines will be juried and selected individuals will be invited to participate by September 1, 2006. Prior year participants need not apply – an invitation will by sent by July 1, 2006. Applications are available for downloading at http://www.motorcyclemuseum.org/halloffame/class2006/concours/application.pdf, or can be requested by calling (614) 856-2222. Entries will be accepted for the following categories: . American to 1953 . American 1954-1975 . British to 1964 . British 1965-1975 . European to 1975 . Japanese to 1970 . Japanese 1971-1975 . Competition to 1969 . Competition 1970-1975 . Specials & Customs The 5th annual Motorcycle Hall of Fame Concours d’Elegance is held in conjunction with the 2006 Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction, scheduled for Saturday evening, October 7. The weekend begins with a Friday, October 6 “Evening of Stars and Legends” gala reception, celebrating the Motorcycle Hall of Fame inductees and members. About the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum The goal of the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum is to tell the stories and preserve the history of motorcycling. Located on the campus of the American Motorcyclist Association in Pickerington, Ohio, the Motorcycle Hall of Fame honors those who have contributed notably to the sport, and three major exhibition halls showcase the machines and memorabilia that have shaped motorcycling. The Museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; and is closed on New Year’s, Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Adult admission is $10 per person; students 12 – 17, $3. AMA members $5. Seniors receive a $2 discount and members of motorcycle clubs and organizations are eligible for a $1 discount per ticket. A $25.00 family rate and group rates are also available. For more information, call (614) 856-2222, or visit the Museum’s website at www.motorcyclemuseum.org.