“My problem is that I never throw anything away.” 

Garage Company, Inc.

Imagine Willy Wonka’s garage. That was how I felt as soon as I stepped through the doors at Garage Company. It’s an absolute wonderland for all things a gearhead or collector could imagine. Every little space is filled with interesting, unique objects. Not just with random vintage parts but with things like Ceriani forks, GP carbs, vintage race fairings, and shelves of chronometric dials to name a few.

I spent almost 4 hours at Garage Company. Sat and spoke to Yoshi about the place and was amazed at how humble and friendly he was about everything. He came over when I walked in and said, “Hi, I’m Yoshi.” I said, “Nice to meet you, I’m Shaik…and you don’t have to introduce yourself. I’ve seen you everywhere.”

We talked about how he started collecting vintage motorcycles and parts and his collection grew and grew. “My problem is that I never throw anything away. I have more stuff in a container and no place to put it.” A problem a lot of us wish we had, I’m sure. 

“Please go everywhere. Look at everything. There is so much to see. Feel free to walk anywhere you want,” Yoshi told me as his phone rang for the hundredth time. I did as I was told and after a few hours I heard the front garage doors rolling down. I got more than I expected so I walked over to bid him farewell and expressed my deepest gratitude as I headed to the back door.

Through the workshop I passed Kiyo grinding on a knucklehead motor with sparks flying, his face deep in concentration. I wish I had taken a picture of him working but I was embracing that last moment - admiring a master at work.

SR