The streets of Mansfield were filled with the roaring sound of motorcycles this weekend as bikers both near and far drove their Harley-Davidson’s to the 28th annual Hale’s Harley-Davidson Bike Show.
Over 1,000 people attended the Saturday event at Hale’s Harley-Davidson motorcycle dealership in Mansfield.
Jim Fagan was among those who participated in the bike show. He displayed his 1979 Harley-Davidson Low Rider, which he built himself in remembrance of his young daughter, Jessica, who passed away from a car accident.
The bike is equipped with a solo seat, “and no one rides it but her,” stated Fagan.
He has owned the bike for approximately 12 years and intends to hand it down to his sons one day.
Fagan’s hand-crafted and sentimental motorcycle was well-liked by the judges, which helped him become one of the 25 winners.
Other winners included Anthony Martin from Ashland who won the Best of Show with his ‘10 Street Glide, Mike Grabill, also from Ashland, who won the People’s Choice with his ‘63 Panhead, Paul Shine from Greenwich who won the Dealer’s Choice with his ‘73 FX, Rod Curry from Mansfield, another Dealer’s Choice winner with his ‘88 FLHTC, and Gary Ramsay from Adario, the final Dealer’s Choice winner who showcased his ‘65 Sprint.
Although not a part of the show, Rick Martin from Lakeville brought his 2004 Super Glide to display.
Martin, a motorcycle aficionado for over 45 years, stated that he’s been a spectator at this event for several years. “It’s a fun time to see everyone’s bikes and check out what’s inside the store, plus there’s free food.”
Lee Hale, co-owner of the Hale’s Harley-Davidson dealership, said that in addition to having the bike show, this event serves as a “customer appreciation day,” in which people can come, join with other enthusiasts, and bring their bikes in to have some fun.
Some riders hopped on the Dyno, a tool used for measuring horsepower, and among the highest speeds recorded was 181 mph. Other folks measured the loudness of their “pipes” and boom stereo, both of which received ear-shattering results with 129.4 decibels and 122.0 decibels, respectively.
“It’s a good time,” stated Hale. “I enjoy seeing customers out here riding their motorcycles and having fun with others.”
It’s a good time. I enjoy seeing customers out here riding their motorcycles and having fun with others.
