I missed Christmas lights more and more as January passed by and everyone’s holiday decorations were gradually taken down and stored away. But at the end of the month some other fun, shiny things could be found at the Howard County Fairgrounds Motorcycle Swap Meet.
Held a few times each year, the winter version seems to be a good one to make.
If you’re looking for parts, you might find that what you need has been shed from someone else’s ride over the past few months of wrenching, and it’s turned up here. Plus since it’s usually freezing, you’re likely to have ridden in a vehicle big enough to carry all your finds home without having to figure out how to strap tons of bulk on your bike.
A lot of riders apparently had these notions and more in mind, and this event on their calendar. When we first arrived the door had been open for an hour, but there was still line of about a hundred people waiting to get into the building.
Choosing to wait someplace warm instead of outside, we wound up in one of the neighboring towns at a sports bar where we discovered a Bloody Mary that rivals most others and a tasty lunch. When we got back to the fairgrounds a couple hours later, we found a much lighter crowd… and did I mention shiny things?
Vendors had tables full of painted, polished, and chromed parts to go through- not to mention plenty of jewelry where I could pick out a birthday gift for myself. Another reason I admit I like the timing of this Meet!
Vendors are allowed inside 2 hours before the doors open to the early birds. Once everything is unloaded and he’s setting up, I decide to check out the other tables. I’m watching for a seat I need for my Sportster. After 10 years the one on the bike is starting to split at the seams, better that one than mine! Still, maybe someone will be here with some jeans as you can never have too many pairs. I’m also happy to see a local Harley dealer is there with specials on winter clothes. It might be spring according to the calendar, but there will apparently be time to wear them before stashing for the summer. Snow and cold temps are predicted for the upcoming week!
and from what I can tell you can find everything from a helmet sticker to an entire motorcycle up for sale. Once the doors open to the public, crowds of people filter through to browse and negotiate. Some folks chat, telling stories about rides they’ve been on, what they’ve done to their bike, what they want to do to their bike, upcoming trips, and how much warmer weather would be appreciated. Others wind through the entries in the bike show, taking in every detail and having their questions answered by the owners.
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