Mods and rockers may be rivals, but this weekend brought the opposing motorcycle enthusiasts together for the 9th annual Mods vs. Rockers Vintage Motorcycle and Scooter Rally. The largest Mods vs. Rockers event in the country moved to a new location at the Aragon Ballroom this year, expanding to include a hot rod car show, pin-up competition, photography exhibit, film festival, and musical performances.
The rally references a notorious 1964 rumble between the British motorcycle gangs which took place when the two groups found themselves enjoying a holiday weekend in the same seaside resort town. Dubbed the “Battle of Brighton,” the clash caused media outcry against the English youth subcultures.
Thousands of motorcycles and scooters parked alongside each other without incident at the June 15 rally, attracting an estimated 5,000 vintage motorcycle enthusiasts from across the country. Attendees admired a sea of scoots, bikes, racers, and customs while the Bama Lamas and the Krank Daddies heated things up over on the Rockabilly Rumble stage. It’s no wonder the Mods vs. Rockers rally continues to grow in scope and popularity every year, because between the hot rods and pin-up girls there’s plenty to get your engines started.
View more images from Mods vs. Rockers on Chicagoist.
Jessica Mlinaric founded Urban Explorer in 2010 to inspire curious travelers by highlighting history, culture, and hidden gems in Chicago and beyond. She is the author of ‘Secret Chicago’ and ‘Chicago Scavenger.’ Jessica has visited 20+ countries and 30+ U.S. states. She has more than 16 years of experience as a marketing strategist and works as a freelance writer and photographer.
