Mambo Italiano

This Sunday was the annual FOIM event which is held in Melbournes' "Little Italy" on Lygon Street Carlton.

The sketchy morning weather finally cleared...........the Sun had a chance to shine on through...........shine on through to many, many pretty Motorcycles.....

There was an even mix of older classics, restored vintage and custom chopped out streetfighters and rat riders.......some of the restoration jobs were simply magnificent.....

This 848 Ducati Streetfighter had the most intense bling kit I have ever seen........so many go fast shiny bits and pieces.................not sure if it's my cup of tea.......but hell......

The next sub category of bikes which I've always found interesting for the ingenuity, personality and sometimes crazy ideas is the chopped streetfighters and rat riders..........As opposed to the factory Duc above, these machines once started as something completely different all together. 

This thing was VERY custom......not too sure what it started life as......the L-Twin is a clue.....it was a Duc.....now it's adorned with a custom hand made tank, saddle, rear seat cowl  front end, clip-ons etc, etc......you get the idea!

A lovely Guzzi ratter

I was talking to the owner of the bike pictured below.................this "thing" started life as a 2007 Aprilia RSV4 - not much Ape left in her.............. interesting.......if nothing else.......interesting.....

Of course......amongst the mix of restored, classic, ratters and fighters there were some pretty special stock and factory bikes on display.................ohhhhhh.....so much pretty.....

Bimota - Tesi 3D........look at the dual swing arms and push rod steering! INCREDIBLE

Another special stocker.......a Benelli TNT Cafe Racer 1130 - this thing is a widow maker........

So as you can see........the Sun was shining......the bikes were stunning and the crowd was full.........a great free event.........Ah motorbikes......they really are the key to happiness........

AND......we got freebies too!

\BitSar