It might be winter, but that’s no reason to stay off the bike! There’s plenty going on in the world of motorcycling throughout January and February, from meet-ups like the Hangover Meet to full-on exhibitions at London’s ExCel, you’ll be sure to get your fill. Here are six motorcycle events that we’re looking forward to over the next few months…
The Hangover Meet
Call in at the UK’s most famous automotive café to experience the perfect way to start the new year and blow away the cobwebs. Hearty food will be served alongside helpings of good ‘ole biker chat and the chance to see some great looking rides. The perfect way to nurse a New Year’s hangover.
When ‘n’ where: 1 January, 10:00am to 5pm at the Ace Café London, Ace Corner, North Circular Road, Stonebridge, London, NW10 7UD.
How: There’s no need to buy tickets, or even an entry fee when you arrive, just turn up anytime between 10am-5pm and you’re good to go. Note: Hangovers are optional.
Adventure Travel Show
A show for those who love adventurous travel. Expect hundreds of stands from tour operators, volunteer services and tourism representatives from around the world. Over the weekend, various talks and seminars will be given by some of the most inspiring names in the adventure travel world, and last year saw the likes of Lois Pryce and Austin Vince hosting motorcycle travel seminars, while Nathan Millward, Antonia Bollingbroke-Kent, and Chris Scott were talking about their incredible motorcycle adventures.
When ‘n’ where: 20-21 January, Olympia, London, W14 8UX. Open from 9am-6pm on Saturday 20, and 9:30am to 5pm on Sunday 21.
How: Day entry is £8 for either the Saturday or Sunday, while a weekend pass will cost you £12. Head to www.adventureshow.com/book-tickets to get yours.
N.I. Motorcycle Festival
While it may not be as big as Motorcycle Live or the London Motorcycle Show, the N.I. Motorcycle Festival provides a brilliant opportunity for those in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to see 2018’s newest adventure bikes up close. All of the main manufacturers will be attending, along with a host of smaller trade stands, and there’ll be the chance to see some awesome custom builds and incredible stunt shows.
When ‘n’ where: The N.I. Motorcycle Festival will be held between 2-4 February at the Eikon Exhibition Centre, Balmoral Park, Sprucefield, Lisburn, BT27 5RF, Northern Ireland.
How: Details of the event, including ticket prices and opening times, will be posted on the event’s website page.
Dragon Rally
If you don’t quite fancy riding over to Germany to brave the sub-zero temperatures of the Elephant Rally, then you’ll want to check out the Dragon Rally, which is held at a secret location in Snowdonia, Wales, each year. As one of the UK’s oldest running motorcycle meets, having been run since the ‘60s, it’s a fantastic, well established event to test your mettle in during the dead of winter.
When ‘n’ where: 10-11 February in Snowdonia, Wales. The beauty of the Dragon Rally is that you won’t know exactly where it’s being held until you’ve reported to Rally Control (location provided on the event’s website) and had your ticket validated.
How: Part of the excitement of the Dragon Rally is simply getting a ticket. With only 1,400 places available you’ll have to act fast (like, as soon as you’ve read this) if you want to attend! Tickets are £25 per person, and cheques need to be paid to Conwy Motorcycle Club. You can find out more on the Conwy Motorcycle Club website.
Carole Nash MCN London Motorcycle Show
If you missed out on the chance to see the newest adventure bikes at Motorcycle Live in November 2017, then you’ll want to make sure you get down to London for the Carole Nash MCN London Motorcycle Show. See all of the latest bikes and gear, experience the Michelin Thunderdrome live action show, have a pint at the John McGuiness Bar, get inspired at the TomTom Adventure Zone and, of course, pop by to our stand and say hi to the guys and gals that produce ABR magazine.
When ‘n’ where: 16-18 February at the ExCel London, Royal Victoria Dock, 1 Western Gateway, London, E16 1XL. The show is open from 10am -5pm Friday, 9am-6pm on Saturday, and 9am – 5pm on the Sunday.
How: You can buy your tickets and get more information from www.mcnmotorcycleshow.com and it will cost you £17 per adult, £15 for senior citizens and students with valid NUS cards, while children under 15 go free. Paddock passes are also available for £40.
The Classic Dirt Bike Show
Spend a weekend looking at some of the country’s most iconic motorcycles and rubbing shoulders with names from the scene. You can expect plenty of stalls selling bike parts and accessories, with the opportunity to bag great deals from traders. Regarded as one of the UK’s top classic off-road motorcycles shows, The Classic Dirt Bike Show is often described as a must visit for any off-road enthusiast.
When ‘n’ where: 17-18 February, International Exhibition Centre, Telford, Shropshire, TF3 4JH.
How: Tickets can be purchased from the web (click here) and cost £11 (£13 on the gate) for one day or £22 for the two days. Children under 12 gain entry for free.