The manicured greens of the Quail Lodge & Golf Club in Carmel Valley witnessed a celebration of two-wheeled passion this past weekend. The 2024 Quail Motorcycle Gathering once again brought together motorcycle enthusiasts from all walks of life. This annual gathering boasts a legacy of showcasing the evolution of motorcycles – from gleaming vintage restorations that whisper tales of legendary journeys to the latest marvels of modern engineering that push the boundaries of design and performance
Founded in 2009 by renowned automotive enthusiast Gordon McCall, The Quail Motorcycle Gathering now stands in its fourteenth year as one of the world’s most anticipated motorcycle events, drawing in participants and enthusiasts from every corner of the globe. Over the years, the event has evolved, yet its core essence remains unchanged – a celebration of the past, present, and future of motorcycling.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Quail Motorcycle Gathering
Isn’t The Quail in August?
While both events are hosted by The Quail Events, they cater to different audiences and feature distinct showcases. The Quail Motorcycle Gathering is a more relaxed affair that focuses specifically on motorcycles, showcasing a wide range of bikes from different eras and styles, along with related activities and entertainment.
When + Where does it take place?
The Quail Motorcycle Gathering typically occurs annually in The Quail Lodge during early May.
What if it rains?
The show goes on! Ponchos will be handed out and tents will pop up, but you’ll still be able to attend in the event of anything less than severe weather.
How much is a ticket?
Tickets are $75 per person, with options available for both VIP and discounted children’s tickets as well.
Is there food available?
Yes! From delicious food trucks to on-site vendors, there will be a variety of options to satisfy your cravings throughout the day.
What do I wear?
The Quail Motorcycle Gathering is more low key affair compared to its cousin later in the summer – a pair of blue jeans and comfortable shoes are perfect for this event.
My Experience at The Quail Motorcycle Gathering
We woke up early hoping that somehow the forecast had shifted overnight – alas, the weekslong streak of sunshine was to be punctuated by endless rain, precisely from ten in the morning until five in the afternoon. Chuckling at our collective luck, we grabbed our gabardine trench coats and headed down Highway 17 towards The Quail Motorcycle Gathering.
Despite the damp weather, the energy was electric! The shared passion for motorcycles transcended the downpour – enthusiasts from all walks of life huddled under tents, their rain gear glistening as brightly as the chrome displayed on the rows of magnificent machines.
As we walked in, Bring A Trailer had a tent set up with hot coffee and doughnuts ready for anyone who dared brave the weather, and event staff freely brought ponchos to anyone who wanted one. After scarfing our breakfast, we dashed from tent to tent, checking out the motorcycles on display.
In addition to the eleven traditional classes, this year also celebrated an additional four featured classes – the 30 Year Anniversary of the Ducati 916, the 25th Anniversary of the Suzuki Hayabusa, the 100th Anniversary of the American Motorcyclist Association, and Vespa, featuring Decades of Scooter Fun!
Not to be cheesy, but there was certainly a brightside to all the dour weather – and that’s the community. The shared passion of enthusiasts who still turned up proved to be as waterproof as some of the gear on display, creating an electric atmosphere that transcended the downpour. The smaller attendance and tent hopping lent itself to longer and more intimate conversations than in years past.
In all, The Quail Motorcycle Gathering proved itself to be a phenomenal event, rain or shine – I’m already counting down the days until next year’s gathering, hopefully with a little more sunshine!
My Highlights from The Quail Motorcycle Gathering
