2 minute read
Throwback Racing; Vintage Motorcycle Racing at the Sons of Speed
By The Mag Man, Randy Gracy Photos by Joanne Buzzone
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With the COVID-19 virus looming, Billy Lane’s Sons of Speed vintage motorcycle race took place as scheduled. The 79 th Daytona Bike Week kicked off and throw back racing to yesteryear was showing some speed around the asphalt oval of the New Smyrna Speedway. Billy Lane and over 30 racers with their teams came to race in this prestigious race of vintage motorcycles.
Races consisted of three different motorcycle race class; Stock 45’s, Stock 61’s and Hot 61’s that have been “souped up” to go faster than originally intended. Our Road Crew lady Joanne Buzzone was on the scene and took in all the action from pits. She met up with some of the racers; Jody Perewitz, Ebay Jake, Rick Petco, Josh Owens and of course Billy Lane. In the pits is where the action takes place and everyone helps everyone. It is a continued show of great sportsmanship as when someone is in need, many kick in to help where they can. Billy, being owner and bike fabricator of Chopper’s Inc. keeps the vintage motorcycle racing and the past with passion. He remains an old school bike builder and can pound a tin with the best of them. His retail shop is located directly on Main Street and you can catch him there from time to time. He always has some great vintage bikes on display for everyone to see there. The racing this year was intense as every racer wanted to win the prestigious trophies Billy always has designed for the winners. 500- 600 people watched from the stands as the qualifying races took place and then the finals. The pits were packed with team members trying to get the most out of their vintage bikes. Wrenches were being turned and the smell of fuel was welcomed by all race fans. Billy, Erin and their staff continue to outdo themselves with this type racing and keeping the memories of long ago motorcycle racing alive. Make your plans for the Sons of Speed during Daytona Biketoberfest. You will fall in love with motorcycles from yester-year.
