Many things can prompt someone to take a motorcycle course in London, not least the convenience of being able to get around and dodge heavy traffic. But there is also the wider appeal of motorcycles, often increased by seeing some vintage models in action.

Britain certainly has a great tradition of motorcycle manufacturing, with some wonderful models emerging down the years. Many people have had a chance to see some of them close up at Hastings Week 2024.

The primary element of the week is to mark the anniversary of the Battle of Hastings, just outside the town at Battle, in 1066. But it is not just about King Harold and William the Conqueror; there is some more modern history of the motorised variety to enjoy as well.

A feature of the event is the classic cars and motorbikes show, which took over the Stade Open Space again this year.

This is to be followed at the end of the week with the 15th Sprat and Wrinkle Run event on October 20th, a rally of vintage vehicles travelling from Sevenoaks to Hastings, run by the London and South East area branch of the Historic Commercial Vehicle Society.

The annual event will provide lots of interest for those interested in old cars and bikes alike, with those keen on the latter getting a chance to see how some of the older technology worked.

Hastings Week has not been the only time this month when vintage motorcycles have been on display, with several models going under the hammer at the Charterhouse auction in Yeovil, Somerset on October 3rd.

If older motorbikes fascinate you, it is possible you may own one yourself one day. But first, you must complete your training and get used to riding a modern one, expanding your knowledge of the roads in the 21st century as well as the bikes of the 20th.