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Since 2014 I have each year ventured to the NEC (National Exhibition Centre) for the UK’s highest profile motorcycle show, Motorcycle Live.
Ran in online form last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it’s been fantastic to see the event back in full function this month.
Last Sunday I made the trip to Birmingham with the all important vaccination proof!
Once inside, everything felt relatively similar to when I last visited in 2019, the media staff were courteous, press facilities hadn’t changed.
Onto the main hub of activity and whilst it was clear to see that the amount of exhibitors was down in comparison to two years previously, I wasn’t bothered in the slightest.
The reason for this is that, it was just great to witness again an event full of biking enthusiasts.
After all the been blunt garbage of recent times, experiencing a touch of normality felt refreshing, a much needed serotonin boost.
Honda, Suzuki, Kawasaki, Ducati, BMW, CF Moto, British marques royalty like Norton, BSA you name them apart from Yamaha, Aprilia, there was quite the machinery on display from motorcycling’s top brands.
For those who haven’t ventured yet to Motorcycle Live, here’s just a few of the machines to keep an eye out for:
Honda stand – Glenn Irwin’s British Superbike race winning mount.
Suzuki stand – A range of Moto GP exotica featuring bikes previously raced by Barry Sheene, Kenny Roberts Jnr and Franco Uncini.
BMW stand – Peter Hickman’s FHO Racing steed.
Norton stand – The new V4 Cafe Racer.
National Motorcycle Museum stand – TT winners including the Valmoto Triumph and rotary ‘White Charger’ Norton.
NGK stand – TT winners raced by John McGuinness MBE including the Centenary TT winning HM Plant Honda.
Motul stand – Team Classic Suzuki’s latest creation.
I’m truly glad I returned to Motorcycle Live in a still and I truly hope forever democratic society, hats off to the organisers who have had lots of obstacles to negotiate to make it all happen.
Gain more insights from me on the upcoming latest Road Racing News podcast episode, when I talk in further detail about venturing back to the NEC.
For further information about Motorcycle Live, check out the event’s official website which details when specific racers, well known public figures are attending.
Words by Stevie Rial #dontletfearcontrolyou
