From Shed Dreams to Open Roads: An Aussie Biker's Tale of Passion and Community

Iggy's passion for two wheels has spanned 40 years. It began with his father, a mechanic, and a childhood immersed in the world of bicycles. At 12, the motorcycle bug bit, leading to a cleverly concealed motorbike, assembled piece by piece with his father in their shed. That shed became a sanctuary, a learning ground, and the starting point for countless two-wheeled journeys.

Iggy's collection now includes a few "unexpected" additions, mostly Suzukis. A special place is held for a little Honda, and a 2007 Triumph Scrambler was acquired for weekend explorations. Interestingly, the Scrambler has seen the most mileage recently. However, the true gems are the classic Suzuki GS1000S' residing in the shed.

The Allure of the GS1000S:

Iggy recalls a childhood encounter with a blue GS1000 that left him speechless. The owner, a generous individual, shared stories of racing alongside Pops Yoshimura, igniting a passion. The two GS1000S' in his possession are a '79 and a rare '80 model. The '80 stands out with factory rear sets, enhanced cams, electronic ignition, and a higher redline – a genuine track-ready production motorcycle. The '79, while more common, remains an iconic machine.

A Story in Paint:

The '79 GS1000 carries a unique history. It was restored by a friend to mirror his brother's motorcycle. Despite the technically "incorrect" frame colour scheme, it's considered an integral part of the bike's narrative, and Iggy chooses to preserve it. He even painted his '80 model in the '79 colours, creating a unique pair. Only the keenest eyes will discern the subtle differences.

A Welcoming Shed:

Countless hours were spent in the shed with his father. It's where mechanical knowledge was gained. Iggy possesses an optimistic outlook, seeing potential in every project. A love for learning new skills, from electroplating to spray painting and even wheel building, is evident. This hobby has forged connections worldwide. Pride is taken in every motorcycle built, especially those transformed significantly. It seems another bike has followed him home and is currently waiting for some TLC.

For Iggy, riding these classic machines is considered a privilege. Conversations sparked by the bikes are a common occurrence, which is appreciated. The raw, mechanical feel of older motorcycles is what truly resonates. It's a visceral experience, a direct connection to the machine. The open road, the changing scenery, the smells, and the sounds create a sense of pure joy.

The shed serves not only as a personal workspace but also as a community hub. Anyone seeking a place to work on their motorcycle is welcome. It's a space for camaraderie, storytelling, and even discussions about mental well-being. Personalised beer mugs are provided for regulars, symbolising their inclusion.

To learn more about Iggy and his collection, click the link below to the story we have filmed with him on our YouTube channel.