A 12 year plan by owner and avid motorcycle collector, Dave Neto, finally became a reality on the 6th December 2023 when the Helderberg Motorcycle Museum opened its doors to the public in Somerset West.
As an avid motorcycle collector, Dave meticulously restored each and every motorcycle in the museum by stripping them, sourcing parts from around the country and abroad, and finally re-assembling them into the masterpieces that they are today, each motorcycle being brought back to its former glory. Amongst the 250 Italian and British motorcycles in the museum, 90% of these date back to between 1910 and 1974.
Stepping into the 800 square meter premises feels like stepping back in time with some of the most collectable vintage motorcycles, each and every one restored to perfection. Museum Manager, Natasha Nathan, is on hand with all dealings with visitors and clients. “A visit to the museum is an experience and a journey through motorcycle history”, Natasha explains. There are new motorcycles constantly being added to the collection in the museum as Dave has numerous projects that he is working on and these find their way into the museum once they are fully restored. “Dave is currently restoring a 1948 Harley Davidson Model U 1200cc”, she adds.
In keeping up with the latest technology and allowing visitors the full “motorcycle journey”, the process of QR codes on each motorcycle is almost complete, allowing visitors to scan the QR code next to a motorcycle and receive all the information pertaining to that specific model online, each bike holding a unique story waiting to be discovered.
The Museum is also available for function hire with a maximum capacity of approximately 150 people inside the venue. There is additional space outside. There is no charge for the venue but the restaurant on the premises, Gourmet Mechanics, is to be utilised for catering purposes. Brandon Q O’Keefe who owns and runs the restaurant is a self taught contemporary chef with amazing creativity when it comes to setting up menus for the functions. He consults with the clients and will deliver carefully crafted bespoken menus according to the clients requirements, adding in his special flare that is so evident in each and every meal. “Every dish has a story, we sell flavour”, explains Brandon.
The restaurant also has personalised catering options for small dinner functions, complete with a wine tasting experience. This unique dining experience combines the art of fine cuisine with the sensory experience of tasting and pairing wines, creating a memorable evening that will be cherished by all who attend.
After exploring the Museum, the restaurant continues the ultimate motorcycle experience with a full menu that Brandon has carefully put together, consisting of a variety of delicious snacks and meals which Brandon describes as “industrial mediterranean”. Whether you are a motorcycle enthusiast or simply appreciate good food, the restaurant offers a dining experience that is sure to please.
Overall, the Motorcycle Museum and Gourmet Mechanics restaurant offer a truly unique and unforgettable venue for a lunch meeting, functions and events.
The combination of The Helderberg Motorcycle Museum and Gourmet Mechanics is a match made in motorcycle heaven and an outing that will leave you wanting to go back again and again.
Operating hours are Tuesdays to Sundays, 09h00 to 15h00 (closed on Mondays). Restaurant bookings essential on the weekends.
Entrance fee to the Motorcycle Museum is R100 per person, R50 per biker/pensioner and children under 12 enter for free. Special rates apply to groups and clubs.
Contact The Helderberg Motorcycle Museum on 067 303 0265 or Gourmet Mechanics on 062 326 0773 or visit them at 16 Old Sir Lowry’s Pass Road, Helderberg, Somerset West.
Follow them both on all social media platforms for the latest news and updates.