A Weekend with the MBX: Memories, Motorcycles, and Magic at Stafford
The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show at Stafford is always a highlight of the year, but this October 11th and 12th felt different. This time, my little Honda MBX80 wasn’t just another bike on the floor – it was part of something bigger: the Retro Mopeds Club stand.
A bit of backstory: I co-admin a Facebook group called ‘Retro Mopeds 70’s–90’s’ with my friend Andrew Longley. The page is a haven for enthusiasts of all bikes under 90cc, whether standard or wildly modified. Last year, Andrew and I displayed our bikes as private entries, and while sharing stories with fellow fans, we hatched an idea – a club stand. Fast forward to this year, and our vision had become reality.
The stand was a small but mighty showcase. Andrew brought three bikes: an MT5, MB5, and RD50. Steve Mawson contributed a jaw-dropping custom MBX80, and my own MBX80 completed the lineup. Standing back and seeing the five machines together, I felt a surge of pride – this wasn’t just my bike, it was part of a movement celebrating a generation of two-wheelers.
I’ll admit, I had a twinge of doubt. The MBX had been on show the past two years – would people still care? From the moment the doors opened, all doubts vanished. Enthusiasts flocked to the stand, eager to chat, share stories, and snap photos. Conversations flowed – memories of rides, modifications, and teenage adventures – and for the first time, my MBX wasn’t just a display piece; it was a bridge connecting strangers through shared passion.
Then came Sunday morning – a moment I’ll never forget. The winners’ names were posted, and my friends Tony and Steve nudged me excitedly. Could it be? Scanning the list, my heart leapt. There it was: 2nd Best 1980s Bike, runner-up to a Kawasaki Z1300! My MBX80, a humble 80cc two-stroke, would be receiving recognition on the main stage.
The day became a blur of excitement. Andrew’s MT5 and my Aprilia AF1 each received a ‘Highly Commended’ award. And then it was time. Walking onto the stage, the buzz of the crowd mixing with my racing heartbeat, I was handed my award by none other than Wayne Gardner, 1987 500cc World Champion and one of my heroes. When he asked about the bike, I replied, “It’s a little Honda MBX80 2-stroke.” He grinned and said, “Ripper!” – and just like that, a childhood dream collided with reality.
This year’s show was more than just an exhibition; it was an experience, a celebration of community, passion, and the joy of two wheels. The club stand added a layer of camaraderie and fun that I’ll be chasing for years to come. Stafford 2025 wasn’t just another show – it was a weekend of memories I’ll cherish forever.
For more on the Aprilia on display, see here:
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| shaking hands with Wayne Gardner |
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| Dan Jones, Steve Mawson, Tony Mawson, Andrew Longley |
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