Monthly rides and events often coincide with annual fairs and festivals throughout Arkansas. Members range from Hot Springs Village retirees to entire families and even folks outside Garland County. “We have as a member Buddy Muirhead [of Searcy], retired Riverboat Captain of the Delta Queen,” Ed reports. “He has one of only four Ner-A-Cars in existence.” Like the original French “velocipede” of the late 1800s, the early 20th century Ner-A-Car represents a fascinating step in the development of motorcycle design.

“They’re so much fun to restore,” says Ed, explaining that for excursions up Arkansas’s Scenic Highways, members ride newer (although often vintage) motorcycles. Michael always has several restorations going at once, with the circa-1917 Schwinn Excelsior his most authentic example. “Authenticity is key,” Michael says. “The whole club gets involved on restoration projects – but anybody can join. You don’t necessarily have to have a bike.”

The Antique Motorcycle Club welcomes all comers, including VFW riders and members of ABATE, but the stereotype of the “biker” hardly applies. A better description would be “motorcycle enthusiasts” -- Michael and Ed see the value of bringing a wider audience to the history and culture of motorcycle riding (and not just because of high gas prices!)

“Motorcycles were pioneered by early aircraft engineers,” Ed points out. Engineering approaches were as diverse as the companies that implemented them. “Loud pipes are on the way out,” he says, adding that each new generation of riders adds to the evolution of the machine. However, historical context is all-important as is technical know-how: Restoration is more than an exact science. “It’s a dying art,” Michael emphasizes. “Very few young people know about restoring motorcycles.”

Did you know that Schwinn, synonymous with American bicycles, was at one time known for its cutting-edge motorcycle designs? Or that Triumph once made a flashy motorcycle with a roomy (and comfortable) sidecar constructed of wicker? Or that the first motorcycles were steam-powered wooden contraptions?

Hot Springs’ Diamond Chapter of the Antique Motorcycle Club of America is dedicated to restoring, exhibiting, sharing and experiencing these colorful blasts from the past. As the club continues to grow, founders Michael Thomson and Ed Olds reflect on the success of their effort to showcase these rare machines.

“It’s a nationwide club – we’re the only chapter in Arkansas,” Michael says. “The closest club is in Memphis.” The group, approaching 50 members, will exhibit 100 antique and vintage motorcycles on the National Park lawn for their second annual free-to-the-public event during Rally week in September. During winter months, meeting places include area restaurants or potlucks in member homes; in the summertime, Gulpha Gorge is a favorite spot. The group stays connected online and Ed compiles their newsletter.

Michael and Ed see huge potential (both educationally and financially) to benefit the City of Hot Springs, long a destination for excursionists. “If the Chamber and Convention and Visitors’ Bureau would do as the city of Harrison does and print maps of the roads and scenic highways good for riding,” Ed muses, “We have enormous opportunity to bring in revenue.”

“We’d like to collaborate on a Transportation Museum,” Michael adds. “We’re working with a good group of people to eventually showcase antique motorcycles and cars here in Hot Springs.” Until that worthy goal is reached, the Diamond Chapter of the Antique Motorcycle Club of America will continue to take to the highways and byways of the Natural State.

June Events:

6: Mustang Pizza Car and Bike Show

12-14: Ozark Vintage/Antique Bike Show (Bentonville)

12-13-14: Harrison Fundraiser Ride/Poker Run

16: Ride to Petit Jean Show and Swap Meet

27: Exhibit at Malvern’s Annual Brickfest

For more information, contact Michael Thomson, Club President, at 501.525.9833.