Two new exhibitions at the Branch Museum of Design in Richmond showcase striking contrasts in motorcycle design — from gritty, one-of-a-kind builds to sleek, stylish scooters.

“Ruined,” curated by John Ryland of Richmond-based Classified Moto, fills the museum’s Long Gallery with the raw, industrial creations that have made his shop internationally known.

Ryland said he embraces criticism from motorcycle purists who accuse him of “ruining” factory bikes — to him, it’s a sign that he’s turned something ordinary into something memorable.

Among the featured works is the motorcycle Ryland built in 2014 for AMC’s “The Walking Dead.” Created for the character Daryl Dixon, portrayed by actor Norman Reedus, the custom bike appeared in network promotions and at events including San Diego ComicCon. 

Visitors to “Ruined” will have the rare opportunity to sit on the original screen-used bike and take photos.

In the museum’s Main Gallery, “Refined: The Design of Vespa,” traces the evolution of the iconic Italian scooter from its 1946 debut to its lasting influence on global design and culture.

The exhibit features vintage Vespa models, original advertising materials, and pop culture artifacts, including the 2025 limited-edition Vespa 946 “Snake,” released in celebration of the Chinese zodiac year.

Both exhibitions run through Aug. 31 For more information, visit branchmuseum.org.

 About 50 riders traveled from Moto Richmond to the Branch Museum of Design on motorcycles and scooters to see the museum’s two-wheeled exhibition, “Ruined + Refined,” on Saturday, July 26.