Are you going to the Rabers auction? That's sad business right there.
I am inclined to go, I am off work right now so COULD.. I also have a place to stay 15-20 minutes from the location (With pool, and hot tub) So I intend to go, the problem is A) Blazing heat this time of year and especially driving there thru the furnace zone ( From Grants pass to San Jose is a cooker) best to travel at night B) Money.
The big speculation will the millionaires show up to secure the inventory?? I am hoping ANOTHER shop buys it lock stock and barrel and relocates it to a more viable location. The reason for shutting down the shop is Bay Area economics, NOT the viability of a vintage Brit bike shop. Its been successful and CAN be successful but its insane whats going on in the bay area. No one can afford to live there, and running a business is prohibitively expensive. Anyone working there has between minimum an hour commute each direction and more commonly 2-3hr commute each direction.
Portland Oregon is headed the Same direction and Seattle/Tacoma as well.
So, I am trying to downsize so large purchases are counterproductive,,I just need odds and ends to complete my projects. NOT buying shipping containers full of parts (I Have done that in the past) But
#1) They are my friends, I dearly love them there Great people. I want to support them and let them know how much many of us appreciate them (Might take cookies, I often do on roadtrips, My wifes cooking is famous)
#2) Experience and document a epic moment in history
#3) Get in on deals possibly or unload some of my stuff (once a hoarder-always a hoarder) but it could be an excellent opportunity to SELL some of my stuff as well.
(Stuff in Calif tends to sell WELL ABOVE other areas)