Black Country MAG

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since 04.04.2000

Fred Hill Day.

8th February 2004

Words by Steve ,
pictures by Steve and Carter

Bikers Invade Museum
(West Midlands MAG Fred Hill Day)

"Why did he have to die in February?"

I've heard this every year at Fred Hill Day, normally more than once, and this year was no exception. Although sunny, it was bitterly cold with a fierce wind as we gathered outside the Black Country MAG meeting place. Despite the wintry weather, around a dozen bikes had turned out to this local meeting.

A quick thrash down to Bromsgrove ensued (avoiding the M5 due to shockingly strong winds) to meet the rest of the West Mids crowd, then a cross-wind-wobble along the M42 to the National Motorcycle Museum.

This is the second year we've used the "Ride-In" format - instead of attempting one mass ride, groups and individuals are encourage to organize their own runs to meet at the Motorcycle Museum. In recent years the mass ride suffered from lack of police support, and the logistics of getting a group of bikes through the centre of Birmingham had seen our Fred Hill Day dwindle until we struggled to make double figures of bikes.

The new format seems to be well liked - last year we fielded around 50 bikes, and this year saw well over 100. The "Ride-in" works well for the West Mids, as our active members are scattered all around our region - the central meeting point makes for a much shorter day for everyone, which is always a good thing when riding in February.

After forming a huge queue for the small museum café, we gathered in the foyer for a few apt words from MAG-UK's one-and-only Trevor Baird - Fred Hill Day is always a good time to reflect on why we love motorcycling so much. Before departing, some of us took advantage of the discounted entry the museum had offered us.

Thanks to Trevor (I know you still sweat over public speaking), the Motorcycle Museum, and everyone who braved the arctic conditions to make this our best Fred Hill Day in several years.