World Origin Site

 As we mentioned, Richard Hammond unveiled a plaque at the remains of the Hunt End factory where the first motorbike was built in 1901. What are these plaques?

The World Origin website describes it like this:

What is a World Origin Site?

A World Origin Site is somewhere unique. It marks the place, people and moment when something truly groundbreaking was invented, discovered or first used.

This includes where and when some of the world’s most significant cultural events, brands and companies originated.

Only one place on the planet can ever lay claim to these landmark moments in the development of the modern world.

World Origin Site .Org sets out to record, recognise and celebrate these sites whether they are marked by a monument, museum or are just a humble house, shed or street corner. Every World Origin Site matters.

 For the Royal Enfield site they include a little history of the brand.

Plaque unveiled by Richard Hammond

 Richard Hammond, of Top Gear fame,

was at the unveiling of the plaque at what is left of the old Royal Enfield factory in Hunt End, where there is a wall and a mailbox left. Not to be confused with the main factory in Hewell Road.

An earlier version of this post contained an error. Thanks David Blasco of royalenfields.com for noticing.

Busted Knuckles Build Off

 Germany's Motorrad Bläsing won the 2026 Royal Enfield Busted Knuckles Build Off after its SHAAN custom shotgun 650 topped public and expert judging at London's Bike Shed Show.

Roland Sands

 Legendary designer Roland Sands takes a crack at the Shotgun 650 and delivers "An '80s superbike fever dream"

A grand day out

 

A recent piece in David Blasco's blog reminded me of this article in Motorcycle Classics. Although it is not about Royal Enfield, it captures the spirit of riding old motorcycles familiar to Royal Enfield riders.