Auto-Matic Affinity

Be it bikes,cars,superbikes and supercars,those passionate about their magnificent machines here are fast forming clubs that serve as hangout zones,knowledge banks on these machines and are also proving to be a great socialising model.

“One can never ride alone; bikers always shine in groups and that’s why Chandigarh Superbikes Inc was formed,” says 28-year-old Trivikram,who has been an integral part of Chandigarh Superbikes Inc ever since it was formed four years ago. A group of professionals,students and businessmen,Trivikram says the club is a platform where they talk machines,organise rides and get a lowdown on the latest in the market.

“There was a time when Chandigarh was known for just a vintage car club,but now,due to awareness,money and accessibility,people from the city are majorly into fast and expensive bikes and such clubs will only grow,as they are the perfect place for some real action,” adds Trivikram,who makes it a point to call fellow bike-lovers for events,weekend rides and uphill jaunts. One of their bikes costs Rs 45 lakh.

While the Chandigarh Superbike Inc has grown from four members to 20,and offers free membership to enthusiasts,Elite Rides has about 50 members,all by invitation. “To be a member,you have to own a car which costs upward Rs 75 lakh,and we are soon going to raise the ceiling,” says Govind.

Then there’s the exclusive Merc Star Club,wherein owners get to be part of fashion dos,drives and other high-ticket events. Like their star driver,Bhalinder Sangha,says,“Chandigarh is a place with rich taste and people here want to flaunt what they have. There will be more such clubs in future since they act as a medium to talk about new launches,parts and technicalities.”

Recently,the Harley Owners Group from Delhi made a trip down to Chandigarh where they met up with more Harley owners here.

Paritosh Gupta’s Cannon Ball Club,named after the 1981 Hollywood film Cannonball Run,is already quite famous. Members get to enjoy high-powered drives,social evenings and coverage in auto magazines.

The club already has 5,000 members on Facebook. The membership is exclusive — only those who own Rs 50 lakh and above cars can join.

“The beauty of such clubs is that members can get to know about service,availability of spare parts,modifications,customisation through this grapevine,for,super cars and bikes are difficult to maintain in India since there are no service stations for those as such,” says Govind.