Ep 8. Great American Rides

In American Pickers: Best Of season 2 episode 8, entitled "Great American Rides", Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz are on the hunt for rare motorcycles and vintage automobile finds in some of the most unexpected places across the United States.

As expert "pickers", the dynamic duo scour the countryside in search of hidden gems tucked away in barns, sheds, and garages. In this episode, the focus is on unusual and rare vehicles - the kind of rides that turn heads and generate a cult following.

The episode kicks off in Illinois, where the guys visit a barn filled with classic cars and motorcycles. Among the treasures they uncover are a 1946 Harley Davidson Knucklehead, a 1955 Chevy Bel Air, and a 1932 Ford Roadster. The owner of the collection is reluctant to part with his beloved bikes and cars, but Mike and Frank work their charm and manage to strike a deal.

Next up, the pickers head to a motorcycle museum in Iowa. The museum boasts an impressive collection of rare motorcycles, including a 1911 Harley Davidson, a 1914 Indian Single, and a 1938 Crocker. Mike and Frank geek out over the vintage choppers and chat with the museum curator about the history of American motorcycle culture.

The guys then hit the road and head to a remote ranch in Oklahoma, where they stumble upon a rusted-out old car in a field. But upon closer inspection, they realize they've struck gold - the car is a 1936 Auburn Speedster, one of only 100 ever made. The owner of the ranch is initially hesitant to part with the Speedster, but Mike and Frank work their magic and convince him to sell.

From Oklahoma, the pickers travel to Texas, where they visit a collector with a passion for military vehicles. They check out an impressive assortment of tanks, army trucks, and jeeps, and even get to take a ride in a vintage WWII-era vehicle.

The episode wraps up back in Illinois, where the guys discover a hidden cache of vintage motorcycles in a garage. Among the bikes are a 1937 Harley Davidson Knucklehead, a 1950 Indian Chief, and a 1968 Triumph Bonneville. Mike and Frank are like kids in a candy store as they inspect each bike and haggle with the owner over prices.

Overall, "Great American Rides" is a thrilling, action-packed episode that showcases some of America's most unique and rare vehicles. Mike and Frank's infectious enthusiasm for all things automotive is palpable, and their expert eye for hidden treasures makes for an entertaining and informative viewing experience. Fans of American Pickers won't want to miss this exciting episode.