Honda is keen on recognizing its strong enthusiast base, and a couple of years ago, the company started hosting regular gatherings called “Cars, Bikes, & Coffee” at its American Honda headquarters in Torrance, California. The free meet-ups usually feature a rotating theme, vendors, food trucks, and free public access to the American Honda Collection Hall.
It’s hard to believe that it’s been just over a year since the last time I attended one of the events. This time, I made the six-hour trek from Phoenix in my 2013 Acura ILX. The experience did not disappoint. As always, the quantity and quality of cars (and people) at the event made it worthwhile. I like the fact that Honda allows the display of vehicles of any make or model.
The event theme was “Fun in the Sun,” and there was a picnic area with beach umbrellas and games. There was also a charity-oriented component: Money was raised for the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation, which funds research and helps the families of children battling brain tumors.
Finally, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Honda Accord, there were ride-alongs in some vintage models. These were a few of the examples on static display leading up to the building.
It was fun to wander around the American Honda Collection Hall to see what’s on display there. At center stage was a 1990 Honda Accord sedan with over 1,002,000 miles on it.
It might be past the warranty mileage by now! But I bet it has another million miles left to go.
Honda also featured noteworthy well-kept (sometimes factory-fresh) examples of cars like the legendary Acura RSX Type S. I loved this one in Blaze Orange Metallic.
As a reminder, even though the Cars, Bikes, & Coffee events are hosted by Honda, the company is welcoming to all brands, models, and eras of cars and motorcycles. In particular, I loved this Volkswagen Beetle and a lineup of vintage Toyota Corollas.
The best way to keep tabs on upcoming events is to follow the Honda Heritage Facebook page.
Hope to see you at a future event!
