Looking to kick off the new decade on two wheels? we’ve got you covered…
The Hangover Meet
There’s no better way to start the new year than surrounded by fellow bikers while tucking into a full-English at London’s famous Ace Café. A hangover is, of course, neither compulsory nor entirely recommended.
When ‘N’ where: 1st January, 10 am to 5 pm at the Ace Café London. North Circular Road, Stonebridge, London, NW10 7UD
How: Simply turn up on the day. No need to buy tickets or pay an entry fee.
The Dakar Rally
Now it’s probably a bit too late for you to fly over to Saudi Arabia, let alone enter the rally, but why not tune in to catch the 42nd Dakar Rally as it makes its first appearance in the Middle East. With the course taking competitors over 4,460 miles in just 12 days, with 75% of the route on the sand, it’s bound to showcase the incredible efforts of those riders brave enough to tackle the infamous event.
When ‘N’ where: 5-17 January, Saudi Arabia
How: While following the Dakar sounds like a great way to spend a two-week holiday, it’s far more likely that we’ll be keeping up with its progress on TV. While no major British broadcasters have picked up coverage, highlights will be available internationally on RedBull TV or Youtube.
If the start of the British Winter has given you the travel blues, pop along to the Adventure Travel Show in London for a small taste of adventure. While the show doesn’t focus on two-wheeled travel, hundreds of stands give you a chance to meet with tourism representatives, tour operators and volunteer services from around the globe to show you what’s out there to be explored.
Some of the biggest names in adventure travel will also be holding talks and seminars to give their insight into the world of adventure travel, including Zoë Cano, who has just returned from motorcycling across New Zealand. Whether you’re planning your next big trip or looking for inspiration, here’s the place to be.
When ‘N’ where: 18-19 January at Olympia, London W14 8UX. The show is open between 9 am-6 pm on the Saturday and 9:30 am-5 pm on the Sunday.
How: Visit www.adventureshow.com to purchase tickets for a price of £11 for each day or £20 for the weekend. We’ve also managed to bag 10% off ticket prices for ABR readers – simply enter the code ‘ADVENT’ at checkout when buying your tickets.
The Dragon Rally
The title of ‘four-season rider’ is one worn with pride by many adventure motorcyclists. And what better way to prove your winter riding credentials than attend the infamous winter motorcycle rally hosted in the heart of Snowdonia. The rally boasts an air of secrecy, with the location not revealed to anyone except those who have had their tickets validated. Hosted by the Conwy Motorcycle Club the rally has been run since the ‘60s and has featured in previous issues of ABR.
When ‘N’ where: The Dragon Rally will take place on the 8-9 of February, somewhere in Snowdonia, Wales.
How: Tickets for the Rally are limited, and you may want to book now if you’re willing to put your winter riding gear to the test. For more information head to www.conwymotorcycleclub.org.uk/Dragon-Rally.
Carole Nash MCN London Motorcycle show
Why not properly celebrate Valentine’s Day this year and dedicate it to the true love of your life, motorcycling! It’s the place to be to check out all of 2020’s new bikes and gear in the flesh or to book your summer tour. There’s also exciting live racing, talks from motorcycle adventure and travel experts and, if that’s not enough, you’ll also have an opportunity to meet the Adventure Bike Rider team in person and pick up some show specials from our stand. Bonus points if you bring us a box of chocolates…
When ‘N’ where: The Carole Nash MCN London Motorcycle Show will take place on the 14-16 February at Excel London, One Western Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock, London, E16 1XL. Opening times are 10 am-5 pm on Friday, 9 am-6 pm on Saturday and 9 am-5 pm on Sunday.
How: Head to www.mcnmotorcycleshow.com to purchase tickets for an advance price of £18. Various add-ons such as paddock passes are available for an extra cost, while there are discounts for students, senior citizens and the forces.