Since 2009, Classified Moto has been building unexpected custom bikes for people all over the world. And now, we’ve outfitted our new secret headquarters with six guest rooms that are just as fun and surprising as our bikes. Keep reading for more about Classified, but first, the EL MAYOR ROOM has caught your eye. Let’s talk about it.
Named for and inspired by El Mayor Tequila, this big cozy cave is deliciously refined and thoughtfully crafted.
The space
The El Mayor Room is a photographic tour of Mexico, from the blue agave fields of Jalisco, to thrills and spills of Baja. Sink into the Tempur-Pedic king and have a moody movie night under our vintage Bronco grille.
Or make yourself a coffee in your own comfy reading nook, appointed with all the finest books — Choose Your Own Adventure, Nancy Drew, How to Survive the Apocalypse, Tennessee Williams, etc.
There’s a beautiful brand new bathroom big enough to do your morning yoga routine, if you’re into that. Or just use it for normal bathroom things.
Weather permitting, you can enjoy the 40-foot balcony with an unobstructed view of the Richmond skyline, or grill out in the courtyard right outside your window.
Whether you’re in town for work or play, The El Mayor Room at Classified Moto is the perfect place to crash in style.
NOW, ABOUT CLASSIFIED MOTO
Classified Moto was formed around 2009 when I was still working as an advertising art director and copywriter and caught the bug for designing retro-modern apocalyptic custom bikes. Since then, we’ve sent builds everywhere from Detroit to Dubai, Greece to Green Bay. Shreveport to Sri Lanka (ok, not Sri Lanka yet). We’ve even built a few for celebs and TV & Hollywood, including AMC’s THE WALKING DEAD and a recent Ryan Reynolds/Michael Bay action flick.
THE BUILDING
Classified Moto sits in an industrial area of Richmond, Virginia, called Manchester. Built in 1969 as the headquarters for a bridge fabrication company, the building has just undergone a complete re-design and renovation. It now houses the bike workshop, a small event venue, multiple lounges and hangout areas and — of course — six inspired guest rooms.
COMMUNITY AREAS
Outside your hotel room at Classified Moto, you’ll find lots of great common areas to make yourself at home. +++Please note that these areas are designated for overnight guests only. If you are looking to have a gathering that includes more than the guests on your room reservation, we have multiple areas for rent on an hourly basis. Please inquire inquire before booking if you're interested.+++
— MAIN LOBBY. Comfy couches, high ceilings and great lighting straight out of Mad Men.
— UPSTAIRS KITCHENETTE. Shared full-sized fridge with lots of ice. Microwave, coffee/tea and sink. Right next to a chill lounge that overlooks the main lobby. If your second floor room doesn't come with a coffee/tea maker, it's because everything you need is just outside your door. Help yourself!
— UPSTAIRS LOUNGE. Right next to the kitchenette, this lushly appointed gathering spot has a picture window view of down to the main lobby.
— INSIDE BALCONY. Open to the main lobby below, this sweet spot is a great place to start your day in our mid-century masterpiece.
If you’re a fan of the mid-century vibe, Classified Moto is right up your alley. On arrival through the coded access gate, you’ll notice that the exterior of the building has an imposing presence — “elegantly uninviting” was my direction for the architects. Nailed it.
Like our old headquarters (an 1800s mule barn a half mile away) the new HQ is not meant to attract attention from the street. It’s meant to surprise you once inside — like the Bat Cave.
WHAT ARE YOU GETTING INTO?
We’ve gone to great lengths to make the rooms clean, cozy and full of character for a true boutique hotel experience. That said, there are some quirks that the average Four Seasons type might ding us for. Then again, that kind of traveler probably isn’t looking to stay in a working motorcycle shop.
Being a custom bike shop, Classified Moto is appropriately located in an industrial area. There’s a two lane road frequented by big trucks in front of us. There are train tracks behind us. You WILL hear some of this during your stay. We enjoy the hustle, but if you’re looking for ultimate quiet, maybe this isn’t the place.
You might hear us grinding metal or starting up a bike. We try to keep the noise to a minimum, but sometimes duty calls.
Lastly, we have regular get togethers in our venue on Fridays and other random times. Like the bike shop, it’s on the opposite wing of the building from the guest rooms. You might hear some music during certain hours. The venue is available to rent for events, but if it’s not booked and we’re having one of our things, feel free to stop by and hang out. Fun is always had by all. We keep guests posted as to what’s going on, so stay tuned.
Guest access
Access codes for both the gate and the building will be provided upon booking, allowing you to enter the property with ease. Parking is available immediately as you enter the gate, making your arrival hassle-free.
