The History of CHIMOMU in Chinon

Nicolas SARKADI, the creator of CHIMOMU, has been passionate about motorcycles since the age of 10 and realized his dream by opening a museum dedicated to these iconic bikes.

Located in Chinon, our museum houses an impressive collection of 70 motorcycles, including those that belonged to famous personalities such as the comedian and actor Coluche, the Olympic champion Jean Vuarnet, the European trial champion Graham Jarvis, etc.

Inside the 300 m² hangar, CHIMOMU visitors can admire a selection of the most representative pieces from the "Youngtimer" period, spanning from the late 1960s to the mid-2000s, marked by the overwhelming supremacy of Japanese manufacturing.

Among the many remarkably displayed pieces, there is the same Yamaha AT1 trail model with which Brigitte Bardot launched the brand in France in 1971, a replica of the Harley Davidson-based chopper motorcycle that Peter Fonda, aka "Captain America," rode in the iconic 1969 Hollywood film "Easy Rider," as well as Michel Colucci's, aka Coluche, Kawasaki ZX750E Turbo. This was the last motorcycle the artist bought before his death and he kept it discreetly away from photographers' lenses.

Nicolas SARKADI chose the town of Chinon to establish his Museum due to the attractions of this enchanting town that draws so many tourists: the three royal castles of its majestic fortress, the stunningly breathtaking ancient homes, the tranquil Vienne River, the authentic wines, ... This native of Normandy quickly became a fan of the "Chinon or nothing" ethos! And it was in Chinon that he found this large post-industrial space in the city center, ideally located between the Eiffel Bridge, the Fortress, and the train station. These premises of CHIMOMU already carry a history of more than 150 years.

Chinon is a small town with a big reputation at the heart of one of the regions most favored by motorcyclists. Notably because its beautiful landscapes and countless castles can be admired without dismounting.

CHIMOMU thus offers its visitors a unique experience, allowing them to dive into the history of the motorcycle and admire exceptional pieces that have marked the modern history of motorcycling
 

.