If you love vintage iron horses and custom bikes with a refined elegance to their design, then you will be in heaven at the HAAS Moto Museum. This is one of the most stunning collections of motorcycles you’ll ever see.
The ancient Chinese philosopher Laozi said that a journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step. Incredible Journeys explores the astonishing range of ways animals of all stripes navigate long journeys.
HAAS Moto Museum
The HAAS Moto Museum is not your typical garage-style collection of vintage and custom motorcycles. It is a museum of art, housed in a stunning space that pays tribute to design as much as it does to the machines themselves.
The brainchild of Dallas financier Robert B. “Bobby” Haas, the museum and gallery are conjoined spaces dedicated to a world-class collection of 143 rare cycles. The museum is divided into sections including History Hall, which houses the earliest bikes; Race Track, which documents speed-demon culture; Sidecar Alcove, a nod to three-wheeled vehicles; and the Custom Shop, where one-of-a-kind creations reign supreme.
Founder Bobby Haas and director Stacey Mayfield join host Craig Rodsmith to discuss the museum’s unique mission (1:55) and its incredible collection (2:30). Plus, they detail how they commission bespoke motorcycles from prize-winning builders such as Mitsuhiro Kiyonaga, Max Hazan, Jay Donovan, and Cristian Sosa (4:40).
The Dragon Gallery
Aspiring motorcyclists often look to a variety of sources for inspiration. For many, the simplest milestones such as passing their MSF beginner course or taking their first ride down a busy highway feel like a major accomplishment. Yet, there are a select few riders who aim higher and embark on incredible journeys.
Throughout her travels, Heather has been able to experience unique cultures and landscapes while connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Her stories of resilience, compassion and the triumph of the human spirit have inspired countless individuals, especially women, to embrace their adventurous spirit.
Although Anne-France’s journey has not been adapted into film or television, her unwavering determination to challenge stereotypes and break barriers has left an imprint on the world of motorcycle adventure. Her captivating writings showcase her exhilarating experiences, fascinating encounters and personal transformations, enticing readers to embark on their own extraordinary adventures.
The Motorcycle Museum of Texas
After retiring from a career in the investment industry, Gordon Massie earnestly focused on collecting and restoring motorcycles. His stash grew to about 63 bikes. In 2021, he moved to Johnson City to be closer to his daughter in Dripping Springs and to buy this amazing commercial building that now houses his collection.
Clusters of bikes by brand and country greet visitors to the museum, with placards explaining each bike’s idiosyncrasies and history. A sleek Bultaco Metralla, for example, was the world’s fastest two-stroke production bike when it made its debut in 1967 and has an almost mythic status among biking cognoscenti.
There’s also a display that highlights the role of some of the museum’s most storied motorcycles in world events, including the contributions they made to the war effort. Throughout the museum, there are one-of-a-kind metallic sculptures that enliven the overall experience.
The National Motorcycle Museum
Originally founded in Sturgis, the museum was relocated to Anamosa after its founder John Parham passed away. Despite the move, the National Motorcycle Museum feels like one man’s vision — a highly impressive and eclectic collection with themes that range from custom bobbers to hill climbing bikes.
Each section of the museum tells a different story, from the Chopper Graveyard that looks like a garage straight out of Easy Rider to Hillclimb Hill that unveils some of the earliest American hill climbing bikes. The museum also has rare antique motorcycles like the Brough Superior Golden Dream from before World War One as well as vintage Indians, Thors, and Sears bikes.
Each of these remarkable museums offers a unique journey through motorcycling history and culture. They’re all a must-see for any motorcycle enthusiast, whether you want to add them to your itinerary on a road trip or simply stop by for a visit. And, as it turns out, most of these incredible motorcycle museums are located right next to scenic local rides — making them perfect for a weekend road trip or even an inner journey.
