I travel to Richmond, Virginia to check out John Ryland's new Classified Moto Compound.

• Location and Purpose: The visit takes place at the Branch Museum of Design in Richmond, Virginia, where the speaker's bike, named Frank, is part of an exhibition titled "Ruined," showcasing the work of builder John Ryland from Classified Moto.

• Background Story:

  • The speaker's bike, Frank, was picked up by John Ryland for the installation after the speaker broke the master cylinder.

  • The speaker and his partner traveled from Greensboro to Richmond for the weekend to see the exhibition and reconnect with Ryland.

• Exhibition Highlights:

  • The exhibition features several of Ryland's iconic builds, including Frank and a bike from "The Walking Dead."

  • The speaker reflects on the significance of seeing his bike displayed as art and the history behind it.

• Interview with John Ryland:

  • Ryland discusses his journey as a motorcycle builder and the evolution of Classified Moto, which now includes a motorcycle shop, event venue, and hotel.

  • He shares insights about the challenges of managing a multi-faceted business and the creative process behind building bikes.

• Karaoke and Community:

  • Karaoke is a significant aspect of the venue, fostering community and social interaction among guests.

  • Ryland and his wife, Alex, emphasize the importance of creating a welcoming space for people to gather and enjoy music.

• Future Plans:

  • Ryland expresses a desire to continue building bikes, albeit at a slower pace, focusing on quality over quantity.

  • The conversation touches on the impact of social media and AI on the motorcycle community and the importance of real-life interactions.

• Conclusion:

  • The speaker encourages others to visit the museum and stay at Classified Moto, highlighting the unique experience and community atmosphere.

  • The exhibition runs through the end of August, inviting visitors to explore the intersection of design and motorcycle culture.