Sometimes you need a change of scenery to see clearly again what your heart truly desires. For us, that change of scenery meant Canada. Community at its best, store checks, encounters, and rediscovering why we founded Bad & Bold over 13 years ago.
Montreal – a city with a throttle grip and a big heart
First stop: Montreal. Thanks to Julie (host of The Moto Social Montreal ), we were immediately immersed in the scene. She took us to the Idle Garage & Café – a meeting place that smells of oil, coffee, and ideas. At the Idle Meet, vintage motorcycles, scramblers, and daily riders stood side by side, as if they had always belonged there.
We were also particularly touched by Cyndi ( Chicks and Machines & Co-Owner Idle Garage & Café): a doer who breaks down barriers, opens up spaces, and shows how inclusive the motorcycle scene can be. It was precisely this spirit – authentic, open, without any show – that blew us away.
Prince Edward County – Moto Craft Show: Craftsmanship, Heart & Potential
Prince Edward County lies nestled among vineyards, sand dunes, and country roads that practically beg you to stay in third gear a little longer. Our destination was the relatively new Moto Craft Show . The mix of custom bikes, vintage treasures (shout-out to the exhibits from the HAAS Museum ), and conversations certainly impressed us. But the festival still has room for improvement. We'll have to wait and see how it develops. At the moment, flying across the pond specifically for it isn't really worth it (yet).
We were truly impressed and inspired Sarah & Duarte from The Moto Social PEC . They embody hospitality as if it were a craft. We were fortunate enough to stay in their wonderful villa and quickly realized that, despite being on different continents, we share the same values. Motorcycling truly connects people, no matter where in the world.
Hamilton & Toronto – History, Lessons Learned and New Friends
Next, we went to Hamilton and Toronto. In Hamilton, we visited the founders of The Moto Social , Sam and Victor – two consummate hosts who are planning to relocate to Mexico City soon (perhaps our next trip?) and whose energy turns every gathering into a social experience.
In Toronto, our hosts Cecilia and Darren gave us a tour of their scene. Of course, their garage was also a highlight, more than living up to The Moto Social Hosts' name. We spent a very enjoyable and intense time with all four of them – full of stories, laughter, and ideas.
We got goosebumps at historic locations: the former Town Moto store (long one of our benchmarks for Bad & Bold) on Ossington Street, now home to a bakery, the very first location of The Moto Social – and the realization that great movements often start small. All that matters is the right idea and a whole lot of passion.
A store that truly inspired us
The one store that truly impressed us was Simply Moto – housed in an old church in Grimsby. A wonderfully curated selection, expert advice, and owners Karen and James clearly have as much passion for the community as for the products. This is exactly what a great Moto hangout should be.
Why this trip means so much to us
Because she reminded us why you and we do all this. Because of people, machines, and moments that truly "move" you.
We met friends we didn't know before. We saw how The Moto Social shares the same core values worldwide: openness, respect, and community. And we realized: when something is made with love, you feel it in the time you spend together.
Thank you Julie, Sarah, Duarte, Sam, Victor, Cecilia, and Darren – you welcomed us to your tables as if we were already part of the group. We arrived as strangers and left as friends. And yes – we sincerely hope you'll make it to RIDE - The Moto Festival in Ruhpolding at the end of July 2026.
