Vintage Cycle Meetup in Tremont

Will Stoner is a man with a mission — and a motorcycle. “In the vintage end of motorcycling, I see a lot of grey hair,” says the organizer of Cleveland’s popular Classic Swap Meets. “I’d like to pass the torch on. I want to share my passion with the younger generation and perpetuate motorcycles for the future.” Thus was born tonight’s Two Wheel Roundup: a showcase for vintage motorcycles and scooters aimed at enticing non-vintage riders. “Think Steven McQueen in The Great Escape,” says Bonnie Flinner, owner of Prosperity Social Club, the event’s locale. As a proud mama of a ‘71 BMW bike herself, Flinner jumped at the chance to host the Roundup. “Vintage and classic motorcycles are having a huge resurgence among the 20- to 30-something crowd,” she explains. “Many vintage bikes are an affordable luxury and provide an enjoyable, social hobby.” Making note of the night’s practical side, Flinner has a method to her madness, too. “When your ride is 30 to 50 years old, it’s a real good thing to have a network of like-minded people to share knowledge, parts, and experience.” Stoner plans to kickstart the evening with a ride from Ohio Motorcycle in Oakwood to Prosperity in Tremont by way of the Flats. Arrive at the store by 6 p.m. to take part. The meet and mingle at Prosperity goes from 6 to 9 p.m.; anyone from bike-owners to curious onlookers are welcome to attend. Ryann Anderson will be showcasing his finger-picking guitar talents from 7 to 9 p.m. And the kitchen will be dishing up $10 steaks and hand-cut fries all night long. As Stoner says somewhat mystically: “Live to ride, ride to eat. Eat to ride, ride to live.” What the hell: We'll drink to that.