The Sammy Miller Museum opened in 1964. This esteemed institution, formally known as the Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum, was founded by the legendary British trials and road racer, Sammy Miller, to showcase his extensive and meticulously restored collection of classic motorcycles.
A Legacy Born in 1964
The establishment of the museum in 1964 marked a significant milestone for motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide. What began as a personal passion for collecting and restoring rare bikes evolved into a world-renowned public museum. Sammy Miller, known for his extraordinary riding career, dedicated himself to preserving motorcycle heritage, ensuring that historical and technically significant machines could be appreciated by future generations.
What the Museum Offers
Located in New Milton, Hampshire, UK, the Sammy Miller Museum is a treasure trove for anyone interested in the history of two-wheeled transport. It houses one of the finest and most diverse collections of classic and vintage motorcycles globally. Visitors can explore various halls dedicated to different eras and types of motorcycles.
Key Aspects of the Collection:
- Over 400 Motorcycles: The museum boasts an impressive inventory of over 400 perfectly restored motorcycles from around the world.
- Diverse Categories: The collection is categorized into distinct sections, including:
- Road Bikes: Showcasing the evolution of everyday motorcycles.
- Racing Bikes: Featuring machines that competed on tracks globally.
- Trials Bikes: A nod to Miller's own trials racing prowess.
- Rare Prototypes: Many one-off machines and prototypes are on display, offering unique insights into motorcycle engineering.
Notable Exhibits and Features
The museum is celebrated for its rare and historically significant bikes. Visitors often find themselves marveling at machines from iconic manufacturers across different countries.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Opening Year | 1964 |
| Founder | Sammy Miller |
| Location | New Milton, Hampshire, UK |
| Collection Size | Over 400 motorcycles |
| Focus | Classic, Vintage, Racing, and Trials Motorcycles |
The collection includes a vast array of British classics like Norton, Triumph, and BSA, alongside European masterpieces from brands such as Ducati, MV Agusta, and Gilera, as well as Japanese legends like Honda and Kawasaki. Each motorcycle tells a story of innovation, engineering, and the thrill of the ride.
For more information about the museum and its collections, you can visit the official Sammy Miller Museum website.
