Races

1982

Back in 1982, these photos show me riding in a small club trial race on my SWM TL 320 trial. It was one of those local events where maybe ten of us showed up, all friends, all ready to challenge each other more with jokes than skills.

What I remember most is the atmosphere. We were a group riding different machines: Bultaco, Ossa, Fantic Motor, Aprilia, Montesa, and of course a couple of us on SWMs. The sections were not easy, but the real competition was the laughter and the friendly teasing every time someone struggled on a rock or a steep climb.

One memory always makes me smile. Our friend Pino was also riding a SWM. He had the spirit to try every obstacle, but sometimes things didn’t go as planned. A few times he would start the section with confidence… then stop halfway, shake his head, and basically “throw” the motorcycle forward in surrender. The poor bike would slide or tumble down while we all laughed – including Pino. That was just how those days were: no stress, bikes, and a lot of stories being created.

Looking back now, those small club races were never really about results. They were about the moments, the people, and the passion for riding that we all shared. And honestly, that feeling is still the same today.

One Sunday, I joined a vintage car and motorcycle club race near Viterbo, Italy. I showed up with my 1972 Kawasaki KH 500, a two-stroke, three-cylinder beast with pure racing attitude. I still remember checking the carburetion before the event, and thanks to my friend Marcello, a true engine expert, I was able to hit the track without any issues.

It was a fantastic day: lots of fun, plenty of participants – mostly friends – and we “challenged” each other on a stretch of road closed to traffic just for this event. Good vibes, good laughs, and the unforgettable sound of old engines roaring together.

1988

Still riding the same Yamaha TT 600 I bought in 1988 the one you see in the photo. My first one was back in 1984, both brand-new. That bike was my adventure buddy for years and gave me endless fun.

1988

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Back in 1988, at the “Capodiferro” motocross track in Viterbo (Italy), motorally was at its peak—fueled by the spirit of the Paris-Dakar. I was on my Yamaha TT 600, lined up for a timed special stage, focused and ready to launch. Next to me stood the race official with the stopwatch in hand, and just behind us my friend Enzo waiting for his turn. Pure enduro vibes from another era.