People Watching: Mods vs Rockers Chicago 2011

Classic European and vintage Japanese motorcycles line the curbs of North Lincoln Avenue in downtown Chicago along with a sprinkling of streetfighters, choppers, bobbers and modern bikes. There’s also a strong contingent of old and new scooters mixed into the Mods vs Rockers event hosted by Ton Up Club of Chicago. While it’s a wonderful bike show, it’s great for people-watching as well. Lotsa colorful characters enhance the overall vibe of this urban motorcycle rally. Here’s just a sampling of the moto-culture we found in and around MvR Chicago this summer…

Commuters, city buses, taxis, earthy people on fixed-gear bicycles and other modes of transportation pass right next to the attendees and parked bikes, providing some summer-in-the-city accompaniment.

Larry Fletcher, event coordinator and Ton Up Club Chicago member, brought his authentic Triton. His enthusiasm for this event is always evident.

The sound of this two-stroke twin bounced off the trucks and buildings of Chicago. Sweet music.

The bikes are constantly cruising through the action on North Lincoln Avenue.

Leather jacket, red summer dress, white-rimmed shades, argyle duffle purse; somehow, it works.

Mods and rockers meet up at Delilah’s, one of Chicago’s most eclectic bars. It’s an intimate setting filled with pounding psychobilly rock and Brylcreemed pompadours. Below: Delilah’s stairwell decor.

Time warp.

If you haven’t experienced this event in the always-alive Windy City, it’s worth a trip. So adjust your clutch, shine up the pipes and join this fun, psuedo-rivalry next year.

If you liked these pics, click here to watch our video of the 2011 Mods vs Rockers Chicago event!

Also, read our story and see pics from the Friday Night Punch-Up at Chicago’s Ace Motorcycle & Scooter Co. held the night before MvR.