SB48 Launch Report

It's a couple of weeks since we had our launch event at Koti Autotalli, but I've been meaning to write this report. It was a slight leap into the unknown because I'd never visited the venue before arriving at 4 on the day of the event, though a couple of friends had said good things about the venue.

Koti Autotalli is a product of the lockdown, the two owners, Becci and Ben, found themselves looking for new opportunities when their circumstances changed. Ben is a former large scale events organiser for Harley Europe, and friends with Becci's husband. Becci had been one of the founders of a car culture-based destination/café and the pair decided to open a new spot in the Cotswolds region of the UK, known for it natural beauty and picture postcard villages.

The venue is a new build at the end of a small industrial estate in Chipping Campden. They are the first tenants in the unit.

The interior is inspired by Deus Ex Machina, and they stock the brand, and had one of Deus's fat tyre SR/XT500s on display.

Koti Autotalli is Finnish for home and garage, and the shop mixes cafe, with furnishes designed to encourage people to hang around; a clothing and accessories shop, and a workshop, all currently open plan. The 'autotalli' can be seen in the back of this shot.

The shop, late afternoon, midweek, before the Sideburn crowd arrived, giving a clearer view. Co-owner Becci in the pink coat.

Then the bikes started arriving...

Plenty of DTRA racers and organisers

Sideburn contributor Charlie Davidson 'Don't photograph me while I'm eating'.

We love people who buy the magazine!

It snowed for many riders on the way there, so respect to those who braved it.

Then it tried to snow again before the end.

This is Rory, a young fella who does big miles on his Honda Varadero 125. He was the last to leave.

Dogs came too, of course.

They stock Mutt Motorcycles too.

And complete some great looking restos and custom builds.

Thanks to Koti Autotalli for hosting us, and for everyone who came out for the evening. It's good to see you all. Koti Autotalli stock Sideburn magazine.

See more at kotiautotalli.com

#Sideburnstockist #Launchparty