Category Archives: Shows

2023 Revival to host first ever all-synthetic fuel race at Goodwood as full schedule confirmed

In what is already a seminal year for motorsport at Goodwood as we celebrate 75 years of the Motor Circuit, 30 years of the Festival of Speed and 25 years of the Revival, we are delighted to announce that this year’s Revival will host an all-synthetic fuel race – the first of its kind.

Taking place over the weekend, the Fordwater Trophy will see a grid of 30 pre-66 Porsche 911s take to the historic Goodwood Motor Circuit – for the first ever all-synthetic fuel race in its 75-year history.

The Revival race list is completed by a further 14 races for everything from pre-war Grand Prix cars to sportscars of the early 1960s; the races join the previously-announced Carroll Shelby Centenary and 75 years of Lotus celebrations.

Fordwater Trophy – Porsche 911s
Continuing our celebrations for the 60th anniversary of the legendary Porsche 911 from the 80th Members’ Meeting, Revival will see a race for 30 of the racing classics. New for this year, each car will run wholly on synthetic fuel as we see a spectacular on-track battle for the trophy.

Rudge Whitworth Cup – Celebrating the centenary of Le Mans 24 Hours
New for 2023, the Rudge Whitworth Cup will pay homage to the Le Mans 24 Hours, which celebrates its centenary in 2023. With a grid full of Bentleys, Alfa Romeos, Bugattis and more from the world’s greatest test of endurance, this two-driver race will feature sportscars from the very first years of Le Mans.

Freddie March Memorial Trophy – The Goodwood Nine Hour Icons!
The Freddie March Memorial Trophy has been a mainstay of the Goodwood Revival for many years with its mixture of stunning sports cars from the days of the Goodwood Nine Hours. As 2023 marks the 70th anniversary of the 1953 event, the Freddie March Memorial Trophy will run as our two-driver sunset race on Friday evening. Expect to see the likes of the mighty Jaguar C-Type, Aston Martin DB3S, Jaguar XK120, Frazer Nash and Austin Healey go head-to-head.

Goodwood Trophy – Grand Prix and Voiturette cars from the 30s and 40s
A firm-favourite amongst spectators, the Goodwood Trophy will host an impressive collection of Grand Prix and Voiturette cars from the 1930s and 40s. The Revival’s oldest race will again see the cars that raced at Goodwood when the Circuit first opened do battle on the track. Expect to see cars from ERA, Maserati, Alta and many more.

Barry Sheene Memorial Trophy – Grand Prix motorcycles from the 1960s
Probably the most nail biting of all the races at Revival, the Barry Sheene Memorial Trophy will host a battle of 1960s Grand Prix motorcycles. Expect riding legends from the world of British Superbikes, MotoGP and the Isle of Man TT to race in this pair of two-rider tussles.

St Mary’s Trophy – Saloon 1950s cars
Bringing the touring car battle to the Revival, the St Mary’s Trophy will host everything from Austin A40s to Jaguar MkIs and Alfa Romeo Giuliettas. Similar to the Barry Sheene Memorial Trophy, the St. Mary’s Trophy switches decade each year, meaning that in 2023 it will be a collection of 1950s saloon cars taking the track by storm.

Glover Trophy – 1.5-litre Grand Prix cars from 1961-1965
The Revival’s most up-to-date Formula 1 race must be one of the most anticipated tests of the historic motorsport season. Today, the Glover Trophy celebrates legendary racers including Jackie Stewart, Jim Clark and Graham Hill, with the kinds of cars they raced at the time: Lotus 25, BRM P261, Ferrari 1512.

Lavant Cup – Ferrari GTs of 1960-1966
Paying homage to 60 years since Graham Hill won the RAC TT at Goodwood behind the wheel of a Ferrari 250 GTO, the Lavant Cup will welcome an entire grid of 1960s Ferrari GTs to the 2023 race schedule. Expect eye-wateringly beautiful GTOs to go up against the likes of 250 SWBs and 250 LMs in what may very well be the last time some of these cars race competitively.

Chichester Cup – Formula Junior cars from 1960-1963
These tiny, yet agile racing machines will put on a magnificent battle as the likes of Lotus and Cooper go head to head. Formula Junior cars play an important part in motorsport history – the cars on track will mimic those driven by the racing stars of the 1960s and 1970s.

Richmond & Gordon Trophies – 2.5-litre Grand Prix cars from 1952-1960
A race from the era that changed Formula 1 forever and the larger-engined Grand Prix cars of the later 1950s. This was the period where front-engined and rear-engined cars shared a grid, as Cooper’s backward innovation began to change the face of single-seater racing forever. The Richmond & Gordon Trophies will feature both front and rear-engined Formula 1 cars as they battle much like they did back in the 20th century.

RAC TT Celebration – closed-cockpit GT and prototype cars from 1960 to 1964
Celebrating the period where flagship RAC TT racing was held at Goodwood, the RAC TT Celebration is at the very centre of historic motorsport for Goodwood. Heading into battle will be lightweight Jaguar E-Types, Cobras, Corvette Sting Rays, Porsche 904s, and more alongside a host of VIP stars.

Whitsun Trophy – Sports-prototypes from 1960-1966
The fastest race of the Goodwood Revival weekend returns again with a mixture of Can-Am cars, Ford GT40s and other big-engined racers from the end of Goodwood’s active period. Together they look – and sound – incredible as they dice on the sweeping confines of the Goodwood Motor Circuit.

Sussex Trophy – World Championship sports cars from 1955-1960
Filled with the likes of the beautiful Ferrari 246S Dino, Lister Knobblys and Lotus 15s, the Sussex Trophy never fails to entertain, with recent races going right down to the drag out of the Chicane to decide the winner. As the sun begins to set on the Revival’s weekend these beauties of sports car racing’s early heyday will keep everyone from leaving early heyday will keep everyone from leaving early, making it the perfect curtain closer on a brilliant three days of motorsport.

Further announcements about the Goodwood Revival will be made in the coming months.

For more Goodwood Festival of Speed and Goodwood Revival check out our Shows dedicated page Goodwood Festival of Speed and Goodwood Revival Show News

or head to official Goodwood Festival of Speed and Goodwood Revival website https://www.goodwood.com/motorsport/

One of just six survivors, Super rare pre-production 1977 Honda CBX

Collectors item: One of just six survivors, Super rare pre-production ‘Sandcast engine’, 1977 Honda CBX £25,000 – £35,000 – ready to go at Silverstone Auctions at Devitt MCN Festival, May 14, East of England Arena, Peterborough.

This remarkable piece of motorcycle history, hand built by Honda in 1977 with a rare sandcast engine, made prior to the launch of the then new CBX model with matching engine and frame numbers comes to the market for an estimate of £25,000 to £35,000 with Silverstone Auctions on May 14. The lucky bidder who wins this bike will have a showpiece for their collection.

Mark Bryan of Silverstone Auctions Bike Division, says: “I’ve been involved with pre-production bikes in the past and they always attract the interest of serious collectors, but this CBX example is probably the rarest I’ve dealt with.”

In 1978 Bike Magazine summed this beautiful machine up when it wrote: “The CBX was quite simply a marvellous revelation which has genuinely elevated the status of motorcycling. Few people will be able to afford to run one, but then the best is never cheap. Above all, such a motorcycle should not be condemned because it’s an excess.”

Some 41 examples were scheduled to be built, actual numbers vary as not all were assembled and only six examples are known to still exist with most of these being in either museums or private hands all over the world.

The engines on the pre-production models were “sandcast” development units and never meant to fall into private hands. Just three of the “sandcast” engines survived, two belong to Honda and the other remains in this bike.

This example was originally sent to Belgium for promotional and development reasons and remained there up until recently. Now UK registered and sympathetically restored to running order and fitted now with its correct 240kph speedo.

Complete with Honda dating letter and certificate of authenticity, this is a super rare piece of Honda history and a must for any serious Honda collector.

Weighing around 550lbs and with 105bhp on tap, the CBX was good for over 130mph and did the standing quarter-mile in around 12 seconds. Its performance and its sheer ‘presence’ on the road makes it a head turner wherever it goes. Few bikes can match it for charisma, design appeal and, above all, that sound!

This motorcycle, along with over 140 other bikes will be coming up for auction at the Devitt MCN Festival of Motorcycling Sale at the East of England Arena, Peterborough on the 14th May. You can view all the motorcycles at this sale online at www.silverstoneauctions.com or in person at the show on the auctions viewing day on Saturday 13th May. Now is the time to register to bid, which can also be done online. For more information or to speak to a Silverstone Auctions motorcycle specialists call +44 (0) 1926 691 141 or email enquiries@silverstoneauctions.com.

More auction news can be found on our dedicated page here: Motorcycle Auction News

For more information on Silverstone Auctions head to the official website: silverstoneauctions.com/

Rock‘n’Roll at Romney Marsh Bike Show

Twenty Flight Rock playing live at popular ride-in show and bike jumble in Kent on 7th May.

Romney Marsh Ride-In Show and Bike Jumble returns to Kent on 7th May 2023, and this year visitors are set to be treated to a rock ‘n roll soundtrack as they browse the stalls, with band Twenty Flight Rock booked to play hits from the 50s and 60s on the day.

One of the largest and most popular events in the classic calendar, Romney Marsh is an all-motorcycle grass-roots ‘jumble, stuffed with stalls of new and used spares and plenty of tempting projects – from basket cases to complete bikes.

Alongside the usual array of enthusiasts having a garage clearout sale, specialist parts and service providers will be on-site, eager to share their expertise and knowledge. Tools, memorabilia, clothing and accessories will also be on offer.

The BikeMart feature, in which owners looking to sell a bike can display complete running machines for free, will also be making a welcome return.

Visitors riding their own bike to Romney Marsh can enter the Ride-In Show, with prizes on offer for the Best Classic (pre-1980) and Best Post-Classic machine. There’s no extra charge – just ride in, pay the regular entry fee and park in the designated Ride-In Show area.

Romney Marsh Bike Jumble takes place at the usual venue: Hamstreet, Kent TN26 2JD, which can be easily accessed from the M20 motorway at Ashford. Parking is free and well-behaved dogs are welcome.

Gates open to the public from 10am on Sunday 7th May and ticket prices have been held at the 2022 rates – just £5 for adults and £4 for seniors (age 65 and over). Accompanied children under 16 get in for free. Earlybird Admission, with entry from 8am, is £10

Tickets, stall bookings and all other info from www.elk-promotions.co.uk

TT Hero Ian Hutchinson to ride at the Bike Bonanza

Mallory Park is delighted to announce that TT hero Ian Hutchinson will be one of the guests of honour at this year’s Mallory Park Bike Bonanza, in association with Lexelle and Mackenzie Hodgson Insurance, on July 15/16.

Earlier this year, ‘Hutchy’ suffered a stroke while out cycling, yet despite doctors giving him the all clear to drive a car, the ACU withdrew his racing licence for a year. The Bonanza however, under Mallory’s jurisdiction, allows Hutchy to ride in the Master’s Parade sessions.

Hutchy said: “After my stroke, the ACU pulled my racing licence for a year. I’m gutted because it means I’ll miss the TT. But I’ll definitely be at Mallory. I’m looking forward to meeting the fans, and I’m excited about being able to do some laps there on a BMW.”

Mallory has a special place in Hutchy’s racing memories: “My first ever race was at Mallory Park. I was riding a 600 S-Rad Suzuki and finished fourth in a New Era meeting. I’ve still got the bike. Maybe I should get it prepped for the Bonanza,” he quipped.

Hutchy, 43 and from West Yorkshire, is known as one of the most committed, determined characters the sport has ever seen and has won 16 TT races, his first one coming in 2007, followed by two more on the Island in 2009.

A year later came his incredible record-breaking five solos wins in a week during the 2010 TT. In what was a truly great season he also won a North West 200 Supersport race, three races at the Ulster GP, and the Scarborough Gold Cup – only for his career to be plunged into doubt at the end of that season when he suffered terrible leg injuries in a crash at Silverstone.

Despite a lengthy rehabilitation process, hampered by rebreaking his leg in a freak accident at the London Motorcycle Show in 2012, Hutchy fought back to win three TT races in 2015, another three in 2016, and two in 2017, but his glittering career continues to be blighted by injuries and ill-luck.

He broke his femur in a 2017 TT crash but fought his way back to fitness yet again. Then this year he was preparing to race for the Milwaukee BMW Motorrad by TAS Racing team, only to suffer a stroke while out training on a pre-season cycling ride in Spain earlier this year.

For more info check out Mallory Park Official website https://www.malloryparkcircuit.com/event/mallory-bike-bonanza-3/

Chris Wilson brings Offenstadt 500 to the Bike Bonanza

Mallory Park is delighted to announce that Chris Wilson is bringing four of his classic collection to his year’s Mallory Park Bike Bonanza, in association with Lexelle and Mackenzie Hodgson Insurance, on July 15/16.

Two of the bikes are rather special World Championship 500 Grand Prix machines: the French-built Offenstadt 500 and an Italian Sanvenero square four.

The French machine was built by Eric Offenstadt in 1973 and features Eric’s own monocoque alloy frame and his SMAC mag-alloy wheels. He had raced a similar monocoque-framed machine in 1971 but found the three-cylinder air-cooled Kawasaki 500 too wide so he switched to a 750 triple engine with the ’73 bike, removing one cylinder to create a unique 500cc twin.

Italian Emilio Sanvenero had success with 125 machines before creating his own 500cc racer in the early 1980s, following a square-four, rotary-valve, design concept to Suzuki’s RG500, but using Campagnolo crankcase, Hoeckle crankshafts, Mahle pistons and Nikasil barrels. Riders were Swiss Michel Frutschi, Italian Carlo Perugini and Frenchman Guy Bertin. Chris’ bike is one of only three ever made.

The other two bikes are from the earlier 1970s Formula 750 era, the Hadleigh Honda and a CR750 replica, based on Honda’s CB750-4, the first Japanese ‘superbike’.

The Hadleigh Honda, built and raced by Julian Soper in the mid-1970s, featured a Rob North frame, similar to those used in the super-successful Triumph and BSA works triples of the era, but housing race-tuned four-cylinder engine based on a Honda CB750-4.

The CR replica looks similar to the factory Honda that Dick Mann took to victory in the 1970 Daytona 200. And, like Mann’s race winner, this bike features a brash four-into-four exhaust system.

Chris commented: “I’m delighted to be able to Help Stuart Hicken and Mallory Park by supplying bikes for the Bonanza. I love the Mallory circuit and Stuart has always gone out of his way to make me and all other motorcycle enthusiasts welcome at Mallory events.”

Hailwood’s 1960 Grand Prix Ducati In Bumper Stafford Sale

Mike’s Bike On Start Line At Bonhams – Hailwood’s 1960 Grand Prix Ducati In Bumper Stafford Sale.

A rare 1960 Ducati works racing motorcycle – newly identified as the actual motorcycle campaigned by future Motorcycling World Champion Mike ‘The Bike’ Hailwood, is one of the stars of Bonhams’ bumper Spring Stafford Sale on 22-23 April.

The 1960 Ducati 125cc Desmodromic ‘Barcone’ Grand Prix Racing Motorcycle, estimate £95,000-120,000, was one of only four such machines produced for that year’s racing season. The quartet featured the final evolution of chief engineer Fabio Taglioni’s famous desmodronic (positive closure) valve technology introduced in the late 1950s. The resulting higher revs and increased power afforded many victories in period for the Mercedes-Benz’s successful racing SLRs and for Ducati, which still uses the system today.

The ex-Mike Hailwood 1960 Ducati 125cc Desmodromic ‘Barcone’ Grand Prix Racing Motorcycle,
estimate £95,000-120,000

This machine, the very first Barcone single ‘D1’, was acquired direct from the Ducati factory by Mike’s father, Stan, who was then Ducati’s distributor in the UK. The Barcone, or Barge, was distinguished by a boat-like crankcase with a narrow, finless sump and an integral six-speed gearbox, the cylinder still inclined forward. Hailwood’s Écurie Sportive team installed a taller fuel tank and thickly padded seat, and he immediately won nine 125 races with the bike, with further victories later in the season, including at Oulton Park, becoming winner of that year’s British 125cc Championship.

After Mike had signed with Honda, the Ducati was sold in 1961 and passed through various well-known collectors until acquired in the 1980s by the late Captain Ivan Forshaw, the renowned Lagonda and Aston Martin specialist. Also a motorcycle enthusiast, Captain Forshaw and his son Richard amassed the collection of British speedway motorcycles sold by Bonhams last year.

The Ducati was bought as a works racing motorcycle, but its full provenance was unknown until it was recently identified as Mike Hailwood’s machine by Ducati authority Ian Falloon. It is offered in ‘as found’ condition.

Ben Walker, Global Head of Bonhams Motorcycles, said: “This extraordinary discovery is fantastic news. The Ducati offers its successful buyer the unrepeatable opportunity to carefully preserve and conserve a significant piece of the legendary Mike Hailwood’s history.”

The Ducati will take its place on the Bonhams start line at Stafford with a host of racing motorcycles, ridden by some of the most respected riders, from every era and a range of disciplines, including:

The ex-Jim Redman MBE, works, 1963 Honda 247cc CR72 Racing Motorcycle,
estimate £120,000-150,000

The ex-Jim Redman MBE, works, 1963 Honda 247cc CR72 Racing Motorcycle, estimate £120,000-150,000. Ridden throughout Rhodesia in the 1960s by six-times world Champion Jim Redman along with fellow countryman and Grand Prix racer Bruce Beale, it has more recently been campaigned by him in classic events including Imatra and Essen, following a comprehensive 30-year restoration. Accompanied by a letter of confirmation from Jim Redman.

The ex-Peter Hickman, FHO Racing, Isle of Man Superbike TT and Senior TT-winning, 2022 BMW M1000RR Superbike, estimate £80,000-100,000

The ex-Peter Hickman, FHO Racing, Isle of Man Superbike TT and Senior TT-winning, 2022 BMW M1000RR Superbike, estimate £80,000-100,000. Carrying Peter Hickman to victory in last year’s Isle of Man Superbike and Senior TT Race, this is the first reigning Isle of Man TT Champion motorcycle to cross an auction block. The motorcycle is offered exactly as it crossed the finish line of the world’s largest road race finale, the blue riband Senior TT, complete with its original race winning fairing, speckled with flies from the gruelling 228-mile race.

The Dave Degens collection

The Dave Degens Collection

Endurance racer and leading bespoke motorcycle builder, Dave Degens is credited with popularising the Triton Triumph/Norton hybrid of the 1960s, building his own versions under the name Dresda. This collection of 11 motorcycles is led by the 1965 Barcelona 24 Hours-winning, 1965 Dresda Triton 650cc Racing Motorcycle, £20,000 – £30,000. Hand-built by Dave, it was raced to victory by him and Rex Butcher in the 1965 endurance race, against the combined might of the rival factory teams and is considered as the machine that started the Dresda legend.

Bumper Stafford Sale

The Bonhams sale offers more than 330 motorcycles spanning all eras – and all budgets – from the pre-1915 pioneer and pre-1931 Vintage periods to modern Italian exotica and cutting-edge Japanese machines, representing the A-Z of motorcycling.

The two-day sale, this year’s largest UK motorcycle auction, has its traditional slot at The International Classic MotorCycle Show in Stafford, with the schedule as follows:

Saturday

11:00 117 lots of spares and memorabilia including the Ernie Knott Trophy Collection.

14:00 – circa 80 collectors’ motorcycles

Sunday

10:00 – circa 250+ motorcycles 

The full catalogue will be online on 3 April and can be previewed here:

Bonhams : The Spring Stafford Sale – The International Classic MotorCycle Show.

Contact the Bonhams Motorcycles team  for further information or to register to bid:  ukmotorcycles@bonhams.com – +44 (0) 20 8963 2817 or visit bonhams.com/motorcycles.

More auction news can be found on our dedicated page here: Motorcycle Auction News

For more information on Bonhams Motorcycles Auctions head to the official website: Bonhams Motorcycles

Early Bird tickets for Motorcycle Live on sale now

Early Bird tickets for Motorcycle Live, in association with Bikesure Insurance, on sale now! 

Tickets for Motorcycle Live, the UK’s largest motorcycle and scooter show, are on sale now at an exclusive Early Bird rate.

The annual show, held at the National Exhibition Centre Birmingham, will be throwing open its doors between 18-26 November for the nine-day extravaganza for motorcycle enthusiasts – with four halls packed with the latest products, riding features for all ages, and bustling retail areas.

Early Bird tickets are on sale until midnight on 1 May 2023, with adults priced at £22* and children 6-18 just £1 when accompanied by a paying adult – under 5’s are free.

Finlay McAllan, Managing Director of Motorcycle Live, comments:“We know from our research that many of our visitors attend the show year after year, so we wanted to offer them the chance to get their tickets booked, and the date in the diary as early as possible – and give them an exclusive rate as a little thanks!” 

To book now, visit www.motorcyclelive.co.uk

*All tickets are subject to a £2 booking fee.

For more Motorcycle Live News check out our Shows dedicated page Motorcycle Live News

or head to the official Motorcycle Live website Motorcycle Live

Motorcycle Live and Bikesure Insurance renew sponsorship agreement

Motorcycle Live, the UK’s largest motorcycle and scooter show, is pleased to extend its partnership with specialist UK Motorcycle broker, Bikesure Insurance for 2023.

Following the announcement of the partnership in 2019, the two brands have worked together to deliver the UK’s number one motorcycle show at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, to tens of thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts from around the country.

Finlay McAllan, Managing Director of Motorcycle Live, comments:“We’re just as excited about announcing the renewal of Bikesure’s sponsorship as we were with the initial announcement back in 2019, it’s a real testament to the strong working relationship between the brands. The show landscape has certainly changed in the last few years, but our commitment to creating a show that’s interactive and good value for visitors has remained the same – a vision the team at Bikesure share.”

Grant Varnham, Business Development Manager, Bikesure Insurance said: “No other motorcycle show supports our industry or has the ability to inspire the next generation of riders like Motorcycle Live can, which is why we’re incredibly proud to continue our sponsorship in 2023. With representation from the major motorcycle manufacturers, plenty of chances to jump on a bike and something for riders and non-riders of all ages and abilities, Motorcycle Live should be in everyone’s calendar.”

Motorcycle Live 2023 will take place at The NEC, Birmingham from 18 – 26 November. Tickets are on sale now – for an ‘early bird’ rate, visit www.motorcyclelive.co.uk.

For more Motorcycle Live News check out our Shows dedicated page Motorcycle Live News

or head to the official Motorcycle Live website Motorcycle Live

Easter Classic Motorcycle Show & Jumble at Ashford

Photo attribute Bill Snelling | www.ttracepics.com
Dave Hughes – the last person to win the Senior Manx Grand Prix on a British motorcycle for 40 years – will be Star Guest at the Ashford classic motorcycle show this Easter Monday, and he’s bringing the bike with him.

Riding an Arter Matchless G50, Dave won the Senior Manx Grand Prix in 1972, with an average speed of 93.66 mph. This would be the last time a British motorcycle finished first in the blue riband race, until John Simpson rode a Triumph Daytona 675 to a surprise victory in 2012.

There is a local connection too – Dave was supported by Kentish motorcycle dealer Tom Arter of Canterbury, who prepared his machine and sponsored many other successful racers.

There is plenty more to see at this popular annual event – the main show exhibits are in the modern Amos Hall foyer, while the Car Auction Hall houses traders and jumble stalls. There are more jumblers on the hardstanding outside, alongside the Bikemart area, where folk can sell complete motorcycles for free. These can be dropped off or ridden into the event at no extra charge – an entry ticket is all that is required.

Refreshments are served in the onsite café, where seating is provided to rest tired legs.

For those with spares or incomplete machines, private garage-clearout stalls can be booked for just £15, which admits two people.

The Ashford Classic Motorcycle Show and Autojumble is held at the Ashford Livestock Market, Orbital Park, Ashford, KENT, TN24 0HB – easily accessible from the M20 at junction 10 – on Easter Monday, 10th April 2023.

Gates open to the public from 10 am and tickets cost £6 for adults. Accompanied children under 16 get in for free. Parking is free and well-behaved dogs are welcome. Earlybird tickets are valid from 8am and cost £10.  Tickets are available online and visitors can pay by card or cash at the gate.

Tickets, stall bookings and all other info from www.elk-promotions.co.uk

London Motorcycle Show Welcomes Thousands Of Fans

Devitt Insurance MCN London Motorcycle Show Welcomes Thousands Of Fans.

This weekend, 32,399 motorcycle fans, an increase on last year, descended on the Capital to celebrate the very best of two wheels at the Devitt Insurance MCN London Motorcycle Show. Alongside 15 of the world’s leading manufacturers showcasing the latest in new metal, visitors were treated to an explosion of noise, with the world’s first indoor Supersprint taking over the centre of the Show.

London’s Docklands came alive with the sights and sounds of two wheels over the weekend for the annual Devitt Insurance MCN London Motorcycle Show. Often seen as the event to kick-start the riding season, the Show had a fresh look for 2023, welcoming Devitt Insurance as the title sponsor and introducing a brand new live-action show with the world’s first indoor Supersprint. The three-day event saw 32,399 visitors pass through the doors, an increase compared to the 2022 show.

Taking over the centre of the Show, the Supersprint saw a host of iconic machinery, including Barry Sheene’s World-Championship winning Suzuki, Peter Hickman’s 2023 British Superbike, Honda’s MotoGP-derived RC213V-S, the BMW F900 R Cup bikes and the Triumph Scrambler’s from the James Bond film ‘No Time To Die’ roar down the strip in a high-speed explosion of noise. Leading the way in each race were Isle of Man TT legends Peter Hickman and John McGuinness, who also spent time catching up with visitors and signing autographs.

One of the major attractions was the latest ‘new metal’ from 15 of the world’s leading manufacturers. BMW, BSA, CCM, Ducati, Harley Davidson, Indian, Kawasaki, KTM, Kymco, Norton, Royal Enfield, Segway, Suzuki, Triumph and Yamaha were in attendance, showcasing some stunning machines, including the UK debut of several bikes such as the KTM 790 Adventure and 890 Adventure, Kymco AK 550 Premium and the first-ever Segway electric scooters.

BMW Motorrad UK National Marketing and PR Manager Scott Grimsdall said, “The London Motorcycle Show is always a great way to kick off the year, and particularly encouraging to talk to so many riders new to motorcycling. The new Supersprint show added another level of excitement, particularly for some of our keen F 900 R Cup racers.”

With London being the ideal location for electric machines, many manufacturers used the Show to exhibit their revolutionary bikes, including Kawasaki’s Ninja EV, BMW CE04 and the Sur-Ron range. Yamaha also gave visitors a chance to experience electric power with the Neo Scooter Experience.

There was plenty on offer for race fans, with the Manx Grand Prix starting their centenary celebrations at the Show. Alongside a collection of race machines, stars such as Lee Johnston, Dominic Herbertson, Stephen Smith, and McGuinness were around to spend time with visitors and tell tales from the incredible Isle of Man.

For those eager to explore the world, the Adventure Zone sponsored by Caberg proved a popular spot, with the stage hosting an array of talks from some of the most intrepid explorers of recent years, including Austin Vince, Elspeth Beard and Vanessa Ruck. Visitors were also able to grab a bargain from many of the industry’s leading brands, with Roadskin Owner Nicky Wilson saying, “It’s been a phenomenal show for us, by far the best show we’ve ever had at the Excel. We’ve sold out completely of several Roadskin lines, which we didn’t anticipate, and we have been fully rushed off our feet all weekend!”

On Saturday, Silverstone Auctions gave visitors the opportunity to secure some incredibly rare machines, with just under 150 motorcycles going under the hammer, with a sale rate of 80%. Everything from pre-war machines to modern classics were up for sale, with over £850,000 in sales being generated. Highlights included a 1995 Ducati Senna 1 916cc (sold for £38,250), a 1982 Kawasaki Z1000J2 998cc (sold for £16,875) and a 1994 Ducati 888 Corse 926cc (sold for £47,250).

Speaking after a successful first title sponsorship of the show, Tom Warsop, Marketing Director of Devitt Insurance, said: “We’ve had a great show talking to so many fully engaged bikers from all over the country about their machines and situations. We’ve brought a selection of diverse exhibits that generated massive attention, including the first showing of the CAKE electric model, one-off customs, our Devitt Flat Track racers and our supported Paul Milbourn land speed record machine. The Supersprint has been really exciting for visitors, and the whole event has had a real buzz about it!”

For more London Motorcycle Show News check out our dedicated page London Motorcycle Show News

or head to the official London Motorcycle Show website London Motorcycle Show

Goodwood 75: a bumper year of celebrations ahead

History and heritage
Goodwood is proud to announce ‘Goodwood 75’, a year of celebrations across its motorsport events and venues in 2023. As well as paying tribute to the incredible history and heritage of motorsport at Goodwood, the Goodwood 75 festivities will embrace the future of motorsport, something which Goodwood has continuously championed throughout the years.

The overarching celebration is that of the Motor Circuit, which reaches its 75th anniversary in 2023. It was Squadron Leader Tony Gaze – an Australian fighter pilot who was based at RAF Westhampnett during the Second World War – who first suggested to the 9th Duke of Richmond that the airfield’s perimeter track would make an excellent race circuit. Officially opened on 18 September 1948 by the Duke and Duchess in their Bristol 400, the very first meeting was attended by 15,000 spectators, who gathered to watch the 85 drivers including Stirling Moss, who won his first ever race that day, sparking a life-long association with Goodwood.

Between 1948 and 1966 – the years celebrated by the Goodwood Revival – the Circuit hosted World Champions Jack Brabham, Jim Clark, Juan Manuel Fangio, Giuseppe Farina, Mike Hawthorn, Graham Hill, Phil Hill, Denny Hulme, Jochen Rindt, Jackie Stewart and John Surtees along with a host of other stars, as Goodwood established itself as the spiritual home of British motorsport. Following the cessation of racing in 1966, some of the biggest and best-known racing teams, including Brabham, Eagle, Honda, McLaren, Toleman and Tyrrell, continued to test their cars at Goodwood.

In the early 1990s, the Earl of March (now the 11th Duke of Richmond) began looking into the possibility of reopening the Circuit. Staging an event on private roads in Goodwood Park proved slightly easier, and in 1993, the very first Festival of Speed took place. The two-day event welcomed an estimated 25,000 spectators who watched nearly 100 cars and motorcycles in action on the Hill. Competitors and attendees included Tony Brooks and Roy Salvadori who went up together in an Aston Martin DBS3, George Harrison in his Rocket sports car, Nick Mason in his V16 BRM, Gordon Murray in a McLaren F1, and John Surtees, who was an event patron and organised the motorcycle entry.

In 1998, the dream of reopening the Motor Circuit became a reality, and 50 years to the day since his grandparents had opened the track on 18 September 1948 in their Bristol 400, the Earl of March opened the inaugural Revival meeting in an identical car. 1998 also saw the launch of the Goodwood Road Racing Club – a club which today boasts over 25,000 Members and Fellows, who number among the greatest supporters and advocates of Goodwood motorsport.

In its 75 year-motorsport history, Goodwood has seen some remarkable feats of engineering and derring do: from the trailblazing drivers who raced here in the early years and the cars that tested on the Circuit; to the scintillating record-breaking run from the McMurtry Spéirling at the 2022 Festival of Speed and the pioneering use of synthetic fuels at the Revival.

2023 Celebrations

Motor Circuit
Open year-round, visitors to the Goodwood Motor Circuit will see a series of nods to the 75th anniversary. There will be a number of photo moments across the Circuit from Spring 2023, where visitors will be able to take a photo as part of our #Goodwood75 campaign and create their very own moment in history.

As the Circuit continues to evolve, we will launch our new Driving Simulator Room in spring, featuring 4 Exsim VR5 Simulators that use D Box actuator technology and custom-developed motion profiles, which allow users to take to the track for the ultimate simulator racing experience.

On Sunday 4 June, the Circuit will host the ‘75th Sunday’ Breakfast Club with a specially-curated grid of cars from the last 75 years, showcasing a unique variety of models from 1948 to 2023. Expect everything from post-war classics to the latest and greatest Supercars.

The 75th anniversary of the Circuit and 25th anniversary of the first Goodwood Revival fall on Monday 18 September 2023.

80th Members’ Meeting presented by Audrain Motorsport
Kicking off the motorsport action in 2023, the 80th Members’ Meeting presented by Audrain Motorsport (15-16 April) will honour those who made their names at the Motor Circuit with the likes of the Moss Trophy, Salvadori Cup and Tony Gaze Trophy. Honouring ‘Mr Goodwood’ himself, the Moss Trophy will see closed-cockpit GT cars and prototypes compete in the spirit of the RAC TT races of 1958-1962, while the ‘Godfather of Goodwood’ will be honoured with the Tony Gaze Trophy for GT cars that raced between 1948 and 1954.

Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard
Goodwood 75 will be the theme of the 2023 Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard (13-16 July). A dedicated Goodwood 75 hillclimb batch will showcase cars and bikes from our 75-year history including The Racing Years (1948-1966), The Testing Years (post-1966), 30 Years of the Festival of Speed (1993-2023), Racing Returns (1998-2023) and The Next 75 Years.

Goodwood Revival
Celebrating the Motor Circuit’s heyday as ever, the Revival (8-10 September) will see a wonderful gathering of cars that originally competed in 1948. We have looked to our motorsport heritage when choosing our honoured driver, Carroll Shelby, who would have celebrated his 100th birthday in 2023. Shelby took part in what is arguably the most dramatic race Goodwood has ever seen – the 1959 RAC Tourist Trophy, when Stirling Moss took over Shelby and Jack Fairman’s Aston Martin DBR1/300 after his own car caught fire in the pits, fighting back through the field to win the race and the World Sportscar Championship for Aston Martin. Lotus, which itself celebrates 75 years in 2023, will be the honoured marque at the Goodwood Revival, with a fabulous line-up of cars overseen by company founder Colin Chapman.

Goodwood Road Racing Club
In addition to an action-packed schedule of events, the Goodwood Road Racing Club will celebrate its silver jubilee with a series of photo moments for its founder members at the Festival of Speed and Revival.

Get involved – #Goodwood75
As well as attending the line-up of headline events throughout the year, fans and customers can submit their memories of Goodwood by using the hashtag #Goodwood75, which will be collated and shared on Goodwood’s social media channels and website. A special timeline detailing key moments and achievements will also be available to view at goodwood.com in the coming weeks.

Retail collection
Fans and customers will be able to take advantage of an exclusive Goodwood 75 capsule collection which launches in May and will be available from the Goodwood Shop and at shop.goodwood.com.

Speaking about the momentous year ahead, The Duke of Richmond, founder of the Festival of Speed and Goodwood Revival, said: “It’s fantastic to be able to celebrate 75 years since my grandfather opened our wonderful Motor Circuit back in 1948. Today Goodwood motorsport is celebrated and cherished by millions around the world, which the whole Goodwood team are immensely proud of. We have a very special year planned for 2023 and I can’t wait to celebrate with our fans as we reflect on our history but also look ahead to the next 75 years, and beyond. I’d like to thank everyone who has been so enthusiastic and supportive and so much look forward to welcoming everyone during this special year.”

For more Goodwood Festival of Speed and Goodwood Revival check out our Shows dedicated page Goodwood Festival of Speed and Goodwood Revival Show News

or head to official Goodwood Festival of Speed and Goodwood Revival website https://www.goodwood.com/motorsport/

2023 Event Dates:

  • 80th Members’ Meeting presented by Audrain Motorsport, Saturday 15 – Sunday 16 April 2023
  • ‘75th Sunday’ Breakfast Club, Sunday 4 June 2023
  • Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard, Thursday 13 – Sunday 16 July 2023
  • Goodwood Revival, Friday 8 – Sunday 10 September 2023

Tickets
Tickets for Goodwood’s 2023 motorsport events are on sale now at goodwood.com or by calling the Ticket Office on 01243 755055.

Buy now to save 10% during the early bird window!
New for our 2023 events, customers can save an extra 10% on Festival of Speed and Goodwood Revival admission tickets in our early bird windows. Book before 31 March 2023 to save on Festival of Speed tickets and before 30 April 2023 to save on Goodwood Revival tickets. Terms and conditions apply.

Join the Fellowship to receive an additional 10% off headline motorsport events!
For just £79 a year, customers can join the Fellowship to attend the 80th Members’ Meeting and in addition, the Fellowship now includes an exclusive discount of 10% on Festival of Speed and Revival tickets. This discount can be used in addition to the 10% early bird discount. Discover all the benefits of joining the GRRC here.

Hospitality
As well as tickets, Goodwood’s unrivalled hospitality packages are also now available to book for the 2022 Festival of Speed and Goodwood Revival. Whether customers are looking for a great day out with friends, entertaining clients or celebrating something special, Goodwood’s hospitality provides the ultimate setting to enjoy the events. Email hospitality@goodwood.com or call 01243 755054.

One Week Until The London Motorcycle Show Roars Into Town

One week until the Devitt Insurance MCN London Motorcycle Show roars into town.

The countdown to the Capital’s biggest celebration of two wheels is on! Next Friday, the ExCeL Centre in East London will roar to life as the world’s leading motorcycle manufacturers and exhibitors bring a vast array of new metal, unique machines and stunning race bikes to the Devitt Insurance MCN London Motorcycle.

From Friday, February 17 to Sunday 19, bikers across the country will be flocking to the ever-popular Devitt Insurance MCN London Motorcycle Show. The annual celebration of everything two-wheeled, the show marks the first major event of the season, giving riders a chance to dust off their machines after a long winter.

The 2023 event looks set to be one of the biggest in the show’s history, with an incredible 15 manufacturers in attendance showcasing the latest new metal. Fans will be able to get up close and personal with the 2023 machines from the likes of BMW, BSA, CCM, Ducati, Harley Davidson, Indian, Kawasaki, KTM, Kymco, Norton, Royal Enfield, Segway, Suzuki, Triumph and Yamaha.

From learners and commuters to Superbikes and tourers, there will be something for everyone to check out; however, some of the stars of the show include Kawasaki’s first-ever electric machine, the UK debut of the KTM 790 Adventure and 890 Adventure, the first showing of the Kymco AK 550 Premium, the show debut of the Segway electric scooters, and Suzuki’s new V-Strom 800DE adventure bike. For those attendees looking to try biking, Yamaha will be bringing along a range of their Neo electric scooters for visitors to test ride in a safe indoor environment.

Of course, the show is not just about the latest machines. New for 2023 will be the incredible Supersprint, a unique free live action show that will allow visitors to see an array of stunning motorcycles being put through their paces in the middle of the show! The 170 metre long strip uses the surface that was laid down for the Formula E Championship and will see the likes of Barry Sheene’s World-Championship winning Suzuki, Peter Hickman’s 2023 British Superbike, Honda’s MotoGP-inspired RC213V-S, and the Triumph Scrambler’s from the James Bond film ‘No Time To Die’ roar down the strip in a high-speed explosion of noise. Each machine will be ridden by a range of stars from two wheels, with Isle of Man TT legends Peter Hickman and John McGuinness leading the way.

Race fans will be well catered for throughout the event, with many manufacturers often using the show to unveil their British Superbike liveries. The 2023 Devitt Insurance MCN London Motorcycle Show also kicks off the centenary year of the Manx Grand Prix. This iconic event on the Isle of Man is one of the world’s oldest motorcycle races and will be revealing an array of special events for 2023 exclusively at the show. Alongside a host of machines from the event, racing stars such as John McGuinness, Lee Johnston, Dominic Herbertson and 2022 Manx Grand Prix winner Stephen Smith will be in attendance.

For those visitors planning a trip of a lifetime, the Adventure Zone sponsored by Caberg will be the perfect spot for some inspiration. Across the three days, the stage will see some of the most intrepid explorers of recent years hosting talks and Q&As as they share tales from their globetrotting escapades.

For those looking to grab a slice of history, Silverstone Auctions will again be hosting a live auction on Saturday afternoon, with an incredible array of over 120 bikes going under the hammer. From rare pre-war machines to modern classics, this is a fantastic chance for collectors to secure some amazing motorcycles.

Discounted tickets for the Capital’s largest celebration of two wheels are available online until the 16th February, costing £22 for adults and £20 for seniors. Children under four go free, while those under 15 can secure tickets for just £2.50. Bike parking is free. More information can be found at www.mcnmotorcycleshow.com.

For more London Motorcycle Show News check out our dedicated page London Motorcycle Show News

or head to the official London Motorcycle Show website London Motorcycle Show

Motorcycle Enthusiasts Gear Up For Show This Weekend At Eikon Centre

Tomorrow (Saturday, February 4) motorbike enthusiasts are set to descend on the Eikon Exhibition Centre in Lisburn for the inaugural Motorcycle Plus Show.

Organised by 360 Events, the motorbike extravaganza is set to welcome racing and road bike fans from across Northern Ireland, Ireland and the UK.

Planned as a curtain raiser for the start of the motorcycling season for the year ahead the show will attract fans of both on and off road competitions as well as bike enthusiasts across the country.

Thousands of people are expected to attend the return of the annual bike festival hosted by former rider and commentator Gareth Keys.

“I’m delighted to come on board with 360 Events to host this year’s Motorcycle Plus Show. I’m looking forward to welcoming all our riders and motorcycle professionals for the Q&A Sessions and Meet & Greets.

“The show is a fantastic way to kick off the new season and a great opportunity to catch up with fellow riders and enthusiasts.”

Among the exhibitors and teams attending the show is Grahame Hanna who will be showing off his North West 200 and Ulster Superbike winning IFS Yamahas, Team JMcC Roofing who will have a number of machines on display, Revival Racing MCC with a display of race machines, Irish Drag Racing with their specialist bikes and cars and much more.

Whilst on the rider front the show announced big names such as BSB Superstock Champion and North West 200 winner, Richard Cooper as well as multiple TT winner, and Ulster Grand Prix superstock lap record holder, Dean Harrison will be over from England for the event, along with former World Grand Prix 250 winner, North West 200 and Daytona winner Jeremy McWilliams, and British Superbike Championship rider, Korie McGreavey and Irish motorsport icon Ivor Greenwood who will be taking to the stage for the talks and available for meet and greets.

Throughout the weekend Mental Health Motorbike, the UK charity focused on creating meaningful opportunities to grow the well-being of the Motorbike community and reducing the number of bikers in the UK committing suicide will also be on site to speak to the community.

Other attractions at the show include Faye Ho from FHO, a true trailblazer in motorcycle racing and nine-year-old Irish Minibike 90cc Championship winner, Joel ‘The Rocket’ Haire and the world-renowned motorcycle film producer Colin James along with interviewer Toni Connor who will record interviews with riders, teams, personalities, traders, young budding racers and fans.

“I’m a bit nervous about going to the show because I’m going to be on stage but I’m excited to see my teammates and hopefully see Steve Leicster for the first time,” said Joel.

Filling in for the “Plus” element of the show will be displays such as F1 star Grand Prix driver Heikki Kovalainan’s famous Dallara Nissan World Formula car, one of Ireland’s fastest racing cars.

This year’s show is sponsored by AB&C Insurance and supported by Hurst Yamaha, Hurst BMW and Crossan Motorcycles.

Organisers have also pledged to support local charities such as Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council’s Mayoral charity, Helping Hand for the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children,   the Atlas Women’s Centre in Lisburn and St John Ambulance service.

Kenny Gardner from 360 Events said: “The Motorcycle Plus Show is a great meeting place in the winter to plan your summer months ahead.

“We believe that after four years’ absence the public are ready for a winter Motorcycle Show once again to ‘launch’ their year in the great pastimes of motorcycling & motorsport, whether racing, touring or just enjoying riding bikes.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone throughout the weekend. Having been on site for the last two days during setup, I’m excited to open the doors on Saturday.”

There will be a free Minibus service from Lisburn railway station to the Motorcycle Plus Show on both days of the weekend, leaving every hour on the hour and returning every half hour.

The Motorcycle Plus Show will take place at Eikon Centre in Lisburn on February 4-5, 2023. For tickets go to motorcycleplusshow.co.uk

Tickets are also available to purchase at the doors on the days of the event.

AB&C Insurance Named As 2023 NI Motorcycle Plus Show Sponsor

The 2023 NI Motorcycle Plus Show, hosted by 360 Events, is proud to announce AB&C Insurance as the new headline sponsor for the upcoming February extravaganza.

This is a first for the long established, family-owned, local company, as they put their support behind the return of the weekend show at the Eikon Centre on February 4 and 5.

Planned as a curtain raiser for the start of the motorcycling season for the year ahead the show will attract fans of both on and off road competitions as well as bike enthusiasts across the country.

Attractions at this year’s show will include everything from trade stands with motorcycle and rider equipment and merchandise as well as talks with guest speakers, Q&As, meet and greets, vintage vehicles and much more.

Kenny Gardner of 360 Events said: “We’re delighted to be welcoming BSB Superstock Champion and North West 200 winner, Richard Cooper as well as multiple TT winner, and Ulster Grand Prix superstock lap record holder, Dean Harrison who will be over from England for the event, along with former World Grand Prix 250 winner, North West 200 and Daytona winner Jeremy McWilliams, and British Superbike Championship rider, Korie McGreavey who are also set to appear at the show.

“Former road racer turned commentator Gareth Keys has also been confirmed as the host and compere for the event who will be organising interviews, question and answer sessions and making sure all attendees know what is happening throughout the two days.”

Sponsor AB&C Insurance is a welcome addition to the show lineup with over 50 years of experience in the general insurance sector with decades serving insurance for motor and motorcycle customers.

AB&C Insurance associate director Amy Logan, believes the partnership with the NI Motorcycle show is highly complementary.

She said: “We are delighted to put our name to this remarkable event and look forward to being on site across the two days to speak to existing and hopefully new customers.

“We look forward to working closely with 360 Events to ensure the two days are maximised in every way possible and that those attending the Eikon Centre will have a fabulous day out.

“We have provided insurance products to the motor industry for years, but we very much want to concentrate on the motorcycle market and association with the show is a major part of our strategy in 2023.”

AB&C Insurance will also be on hand representing their five branches in Belfast, Lisburn, Banbridge, Lurgan and Dungannon throughout the weekend offering single and multi-bike policies, with breakdown, legal and key cover available. Staff will also be able to advise attendees on a range of other insurance services including home, commercial and travel insurance products, with quality insurers and highly competitive rates.

For young drivers, AB&C Insurance is renowned for its innovative telematics product, Lollybox, that helps to drive down the cost of insurance.

Speaking of the sponsorship Kenny added: “On behalf of the 360 Events team we are absolutely delighted to have AB&C Insurance on board this year. Many of our team have personal experience with the guys at AB&C over many years and for us it is a perfect fit.”

The Motorcycle Plus Show will take place at Eikon Centre in Lisburn on February 4-5, 2023.

All online bookings will be entered into a free raffle to win prizes such as a small motorbike, discounted ferry bookings and other prizes.

More details on the prizes will be confirmed but there are vouchers to the value of £1000, £300, £100, 4 ball golf voucher, and money off ferry travel vouchers to be had from Hursts, Crossan’s, Norman Watt Motorcycles, Edenmore Golf Club and Nutt Travel.

For tickets go to motorcycleplusshow.co.uk

For more info head to www.motorcycleplusshow.co.uk

Classic Dirt Bike Show Hosts Four Decades Of Stunning Bikes

An eclectic mix of title-winning bikes covering four decades will be displayed at The Classic Dirt Bike Show sponsored by Hagon Shocks on February 11-12.

Representing the 1950s is Jeff Smith’s 1953 BSA Gold Star on which he won the 1955 Scottish Six Days Trial. The machine is very easily recognisable – the BSA factory competition department drilled hundreds of different sized holes in it, giving the bike its name: Smith’s Woodpecker Goldie. Jeff won the 1954 Victory Trial on this bike in a rigid format before changing to swinging arm mode in mid-1954, after which he won many trade-supported nationals in 1955.

The 1960s is represented by another famous BSA on which Scott Ellis, the Studley Midlands engineer, somewhat surprisingly won the 1965 British Experts Trial in one of the hardest ever UK trials events. Battered by snow and bitterly cold winds, Scott beat Sammy Miller by two points – 64 to 66 – in a winter Birmingham MCC thriller. Scott’s machine was highly modified, not having the usual engine cradle, having oil in the frame and a special light alloy cylinder. The cream of Britain’s trials riders had to play second fiddle to the 24-year-old who secured his triumph at the infamous and previously unconquered Bongham Alley sections in Wales. Tackling the bike’s reconstruction is the experienced Colin Dommett. It’s been stripped entirely since 1971 and will be displayed for the first time ever at next month’s show at Telford International Centre, which Colin and Scott both plan to attend.

In the 1970s, ‘Magical’ Mick Andrews was truly the Monarch of the Glen, winning the Scottish Six Days on five occasions. French super-enthusiast, Olivier Barjon, will take Mick’s famous ‘cantilever’ 1974 Scottish winning Yamaha to the show. It was the first time that a cantilever or monoshock machine had won a major event. Mick hasn’t seen the bike for 39 years and will attend the show for a nostalgic look at his old steed, which has been impounded in the French Yamaha importer Sonauto’s headquarters for most of that time. Mick won the 1974 event, beating trials supremo Malcolm Rathmell into second place.

In the 1980s, Telford guest Dave Thorpe was the king, winning the Motocross World Title three times in 1984, 86 and 89. He also took eight British Championships and the World Veterans crown. All his world titles were on a Honda machine, and two of them are still in the UK so Dave hopes to secure the 1986 bike to display at the show. Dave’s first two titles were gained in dramatic fashion at the Wohlen circuit in Switzerland each time from Belgian superstar Andrew Malherbe. For the title chase in 1989, the much-missed Eric Geboers was forced to play second fiddle to the powerful Brit. Since retirement, Dave has secured major success as the UK team manager for the 1994 Motocross Nations, guiding the British team to its first success for decades. These days, Dave works in an ambassadorial/promotional role for Honda, while also running Honda’s off-road training at all levels. He also still finds time to run the Honda factory’s World Motocross team. Thorpe’s career highs and lows will be revealed to visitors as commentator John McCrink quizzes the motocross star when they take to the stage at Telford.

For further details about the Classic Dirt Bike Show sponsored by Hagon Shocks, and to save £2.50 on discounted advance tickets, please visit www.classicdirtbikeshow.co.uk

For more Classic Bike Shows News check out our Shows dedicated page Classic Bike Shows News

or head to the Classic Bike Shows website www.classicdirtbikeshow.co.uk

Rotary Racing Royalty At The Bristol Classic Bike Show

HASLAM, Nation, Crighton; names known to all race fans, names synonymous with a golden age of racing, and names set to entertain on stage in just a few weeks.

The trio are among the star guests at the upcoming Bristol Classic Bike Show, set for February 25-26 at the Royal Bath and West Showground in Shepton Mallet, and if you want to hear what they have to say – as well as enjoy hundreds of other attractions at the show – then get your skates on to enjoy a special ticket discount price.

‘Rocket Ron’ Haslam is one of Britain’s most successful racers, winning two world titles, four British Championships and having raced in over 100 grands prix. He’s an Isle of Man TT race winner, claimed a record six Macau GP wins and has beaten the best in the world, names including Gardner, Sarron and Mamola. He’s also been a team mate to Freddie Spencer and Keven Schwantz to name just two.

Trevor Nation will forever be associated with the stunning John Player Special RCW588 Norton racing machines. Starting out in 1978, Nation soon made a mark and the following year won for the first time. A proper TT winner in the proddie class on both a 750cc and 1000cc machines, he also guested at three grands prix. He certainly earned his seat on the factory Norton team, getting their first win at Cadwell Park in 1988 on the development bike the RC588 – beating the likes of Whitham, Foggy, Spray and Morrison in the process.

‘Mr Rotary’, the legendary tuner, designer, and uber engineer Brian Crighton, will be joining Haslam and Nation on stage to talk all things rotary and of course, the bikes and the men who rode them. Crighton, a three-time British champ himself, was a service engineer at Norton in 1984 and a year later was promoted to R&D. It was there he spotted there was a real potential in the company’s 588cc air-cooled rotary. Determined to prove his point, and defying the management’s conventional approach, he worked in his free time from the caretaker’s shed… the rest, as they say, is racing history.

Nigel Hole, commercial director of the show’s organiser Mortons Media, said:
‘We’re absolutely delighted to have two legendary racers, one incredible engineer and four rotary machines live on stage to entertain our guests throughout the weekend. Bristol is always a highlight in our events calendar, but this year we are even more excited to bring something extra (John Player) special to the show!’

The union of the Norton bikes and the men who rode them – watched by thousands in person and millions on terrestrial TV – will enthuse both racing fans and motorcycle enthusiasts, and adds to a show which already has a great foundation with excellent autojumble stands, some of the UK’s best privately-owned classic motorcycles and a host of owners’ clubs to give it a real community feel.

The event also offers one of the earliest chances of the year for visitors to stock up on classic parts, spares, accessories and riding gear for the season ahead. It’s a popular date on the motorcycling event calendar, attended by more than 16,000 like-minded enthusiasts every year.

Discounted advance tickets are on sale for the show, with a one-day adult pass costing just £14.50. Tickets will also be available on the gate at £17 – youngsters aged 15 and under get free admission. Free parking is available on site.

For more information visit bristolclassicbikeshow.com 

A Brace Of James Bond Bikes To Shake & Stir You At Silverstone Auctions

A brace of James Bond bikes to shake & stir you at Silverstone auctions February 18th London Motorbike Show.

2022 Triumph Tiger 900 Bond Edition 888cc
The next Silverstone Auctions Motorcycle sale includes two bikes with links to James Bond – a 2022 Triumph Tiger and a 2020 Triumph ‘Bond Edition’ 1200 XS Scrambler 130/250. If you are a bike enthusiast who loves the world of secret agent James Bond 007, then attending this sale is a must.

The 2022 Triumph Tiger bike is number 146 of 250 Triumph Tiger 900 ‘Bond Editions’ with only six delivery miles on the clock. It is estimated to sell for £23,000 to £25,000.

It was created to celebrate Triumph’s partnership with the Bond franchise and limited to only 250 bikes worldwide. It featured extensively in the most recent Bond film “No Time To Die”.

The bike is based on the market-leading Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro. This delivery-mileage example comes complete with its original book pack, two keys and optional off-road tyres. It shows only six (6) recorded miles and is UK-registered with a V5C.

Rowan Huntley of Silverstone Auctions, comments:”If this is not a future classic, we don’t know what is.”

2020 Triumph ‘Bond Edition’ 1200 XS Scrambler 130/250
Manufactured to celebrate the release of ‘No Time to Die’ it has a guide price of £20,000 – £25,000 and has just 78 miles and is in ‘as new’ condition.

A one owner Triumph 1200 XS Scrambler – Bond Edition 130/250 – it was manufactured to celebrate the release of ‘No Time to Die’.

Supplied by Bridge Motorcycles, Exeter in September 2020 it comes in the distinctive 007 paint scheme with blacked-out finishes, including black anodized rear and high-level front mudguard, black forks, engine badges with gold accents, black powder-coated swingarm and sprocket cover, plus black anodized grab rail, sump guard and infills.

It has a leather seat with embroidered logo. Bond TFT instrument start-up screen. Supplied with the ‘Bond’ handover pack and Certificate of Authenticity signed by Nick Bloor, CEO of Triumph Motorcycles. A true collector’s item for Triumph and Bond fans alike.

The registration number shown in the images has been retained and ‘BC 70 TVZ’ has now been issued.

More information about these two motorcycles along with over 120 or so other motorcycles that will be coming up for sale with Silverstone Auctions at the MCN London Motorcycle Show Sale on the 18th February can be found on their website www.silverstoneauctions.com. Here you can also find details of how to get a free valuation or submit your bike for sale.

More auction news can be found on our dedicated page here: Motorcycle Auction News

For more information on Silverstone Auctions head to the official website: silverstoneauctions.com/

Gareth Keys Confirmed As Host Of Motorcycle Plus Show

Former road racer and voice of so many races, Gareth Keys, has been confirmed as host and compere of the Motorcycle Plus Show at Eikon Centre, Lisburn on February 4-5. 

The packed weekend of all things motorcycling will see Gareth organising interviews, question and answer sessions and making sure all attendees know what is happening throughout the two days.

Kenny Gardner, from organisers, 360 Events, said they were delighted to welcome Gareth to the Motorcycle Plus Show.

“Not only was Gareth a renowned racer in his own right, but he has also become a commentator that we can rely on for in-depth knowledge of racing,” he said. “To have him host is an honour, and we know that he will help make sure it will be an experience for everyone.”

The Lisburn man said he was delighted to be part of the show that brings all aspects of biking up close and accessible.

“I’m super excited for this year’s Motorcycle Plus Show at the Eikon Centre, even more excited to be a part of it,” Gareth explained. “I have been going to motorcycle shows like this since I was a child.

“I was always amazed by the range of bikes and how easy it was to meet my heroes and motorbikes that I would only ever see on TV.”

He said that he feels this will be an enjoyable weekend for everyone who will be at the Eikon Centre.

“For the first year of 360 Events running the show, I have been tasked with scheduling riders for interviews, Q&A sessions and basically having as much fun as we can,” he explained.

“Some of our sports celebrities have kindly agreed to be involved and are just as excited as we are. “I can’t wait to see you all to kick off the season just like we used to, and finally get some bikes back in February for 2023.”

Kenny Gardner explained the Motorcycle Plus Show has been specifically designed for motorsports enthusiasts.

“Primarily, we will be using the show to showcase all forms of motorsport and motorcycling, if it has an engine and wheels, we intend it to be there,” he said. “Attractions will also include rider appearances, interviews, Q&A sessions, and not just established stars, but also up and coming riders from on and off-road disciplines who will become household names in the future.

“As an innovation, there will be advice from experts on securing and keeping sponsors, Social Media use and lifestyle advice which will be useful for young competitors from all disciplines.

“This is in line with our stated aim of helping to establish a Motorsport Academy for all forms of motorsport to make sure our rising stars get the best advice and guidance possible on their career path.

“Race Teams will be there with their 2023 line-ups, both on and off road, 2023 street bike models, accessories, gear, and lots more so plenty for everyone to see and do.

“Governing bodies will be in attendance with advice and guidance on their various Championships, how to start racing and competing, and of course officiating and marshalling, as well as various Clubs promoting their own events, alongside trade and dealer stands.”

Gareth said that the return of the event with 360 Events helps make sure that the sport kicks off the season in style, and with massive benefits for all attending.

“The motorcycle show that was always held at the beginning of every year really set the tone for all two wheeled championships,” he explained. “I never knew really how significant the show really was to the racers until I became one myself.

“Everyone at the show from the big dealers to the smaller clubs would make a huge difference in my racing career, if it was with sponsorship or advice on even what the best helmet was to wear or tips like what the best line to take at what corner.”

Gareth became a commentator after his racing career was cut short.

“My road racing career was unfortunately brought to a premature end at a race in Armoy where I unfortunately had a nasty crash and broke my leg badly,” he explained. “I’ve had worse crashes, but this was just a deal breaker for me.

“At this stage, I was already dabbling in commentary at some supermoto events, but I would quickly find myself commentating at most road race/short circuit events and love every minute of it.

“It allows me to give something back to our sport, much like the Motorcycle Plus show will do.”

Previously the show was held for a number of years under different guises starting with the Enkalon Club in the Antrim Forum and finally with Nutt Promotions in the Eikon Centre in 2019.

The Motorcycle Plus Show will take place at Eikon Centre in Lisburn on February 4-5, 2023. For tickets go to www.motorcycleplusshow.co.uk

All online bookings will be entered into a free raffle to win prizes such as a small motorbike, discounted ferry bookings and other prizes.

More details on the prizes will be confirmed but there are vouchers to the value of £1000, £300, £100, 4 ball golf voucher, and money off ferry travel vouchers to be had from Hursts, Crossan’s, Norman Watt Motorcycles, Edenmore Golf Club and Nutt Travel.

“These are exciting times and another great reason to purchase tickets for yourself and your biking friends and be in with a chance of picking up some excellent prizes,” Kenny concluded.

Revamped Devitt Insurance MCN London Motorcycle Show Heads To The Capital

The ever-popular Devitt Insurance MCN London Motorcycle Show returns to the ExCeL Centre next month with a fresh new look.

Alongside new title sponsor Devitt Insurance and the world’s biggest manufacturers, the 2023 Show will feature a brand new live-action show when they launch the first indoor Supersprint.

London’s Docklands will once again come alive with the sound of two wheels on February 17-19 when the Devitt Insurance MCN London Motorcycle Show descends on the Capital. The annual biking extravaganza has long held a special place in the heart of UK bikers, marking one of the first events of the new year.

The tens of thousands of fans who attend the three-day event will be treated to a fresh new look for 2023, with the show undergoing a significant revamp. The first is the warm welcome of new title sponsor Devitt Insurance, who will be bringing along a host of unique machinery to showcase to visitors, including the innovative CAKE electric bike, Flat Track British Championship-winning machine and a land speed record bike.

Tom Warsop Marketing Director of Devitt Insurance said: “We’ve been a part of the London Motorcycle Show for many years, and it’s always been a firm favourite in the motorcycle calendar for us. We’re delighted to now be the title sponsor of the Devitt Insurance MCN London Motorcycle Show, joining a fantastic list of exhibitors on our doorstep in East London. The new Supersprint is going to be a great spectacle with bikes blasting down the centre of the hall, and we’ll be running a couple of our own bikes down there too!”

Free live action has always been at the heart of the family-friendly London Show, and for this year, visitors will be able to get closer than ever before in the world’s only indoor Supersprint. This unique new event will see an incredible array of bikes, from iconic classics and the latest 2023 machines to genuine Grand Prix bikes, speed down the strip in an explosion of noise. Leading the way will be Isle of Man TT heroes Peter Hickmanand John McGuinness, alongside a host of famous faces to be announced.

One of the major highlights of the Devitt Insurance MCN London Motorcycle Show is always the vast array of new metal on display. Many of the world’s leading manufacturers are going to be in attendance, already confirmed to be exhibiting are BMW, Ducati, Harley Davidson, Kawasaki, Yamaha, Suzuki, KTM, Kymco Motorcycles, Indian, Norton, Motorcycles, Royal Enfield, Sur-Ron, Triumph and Norton.

These manufacturers will be bringing some of the hottest new machines that visitors will be able to get up close and personal with. Already confirmed to be on display will be the revolutionary new electric Kawasaki Ninja EV, the luxurious Norton V4SV, Suzuki’s new V-Strom 800DE and the Triumph Street Triple Moto2 machine.

If all of that was not enough, visitors will be able to see a host of livery unveilings from some of the leading British Superbike teams, secure a slice of history in the Silverstone Auction, which will see over 100 bikes going under the hammer, be inspired for adventure with talks in the all-new Adventure Travel Zone, or grab a bargain from one of the many retailers.

Discounted tickets for the Capital’s largest celebration of two wheels are available online now, costing £22 for adults and £20 for seniors. Children under four go free, while those aged under 15 can secure tickets for just £2.50. Bike parking is free. More information can be found at www.mcnmotorcycleshow.com.

For more London Motorcycle Show News check out our dedicated page London Motorcycle Show News

or head to the official London Motorcycle Show website London Motorcycle Show

Goodwood Revival to honour Carroll Shelby

Today – 11 January 2023 – on what would have been Carroll Shelby’s 100th birthday, Goodwood is delighted to announce that the legendary American driver, car manufacturer and entrepreneur will be celebrated at this year’s Goodwood Revival, over the weekend of 8-10 September 2023.

The centenary of Shelby’s birth will be honoured with one of Goodwood’s signature tributes, comprising cars that were not only raced, but also designed and developed by the 1959 Le Mans winner. Running across the weekend, the celebration will include the likes of the MG-TC in which Shelby competed for the very first time, in 1952.

Shelby’s impact on motor racing can be seen each and every year at the Revival, and 2023 will be no different, as an assortment of Cobras – the Anglo-American sports cars for which he is best known – are set to take to the track in the all-star Royal Automobile Club TT Celebration. Meanwhile, the Whitsun Trophy will host a number of examples of the Ford GT40, whose design Shelby played such an integral part in refining.

As Goodwood celebrates 75 years of the Motor Circuit, and 25 years of the Revival, it’s a chance to reflect on the motorsport legends who have joined us over the years. Carroll Shelby is no exception, having raced at Goodwood during the Circuit’s heyday in arguably one of the most important and dramatic races in the annals of British motorsport: the 1959 RAC Tourist Trophy. This race saw him share the winning DBR1/300 with his co-drivers Jack Fairman and Stirling Moss – the latter a late addition after his own car was eliminated in a spectacular fire during a routine pit stop. Earlier in the season, Shelby had won Le Mans, sharing the same DBR1 with Roy Salvadori, and victory in the Tourist Trophy secured the World Championship for Aston Martin.

Once racing returned to Goodwood with the institution of the Revival, Shelby wasn’t far behind, attending the third iteration of the event in 2000 where he ran a Shelby Daytona Coupe driven by American IndyCar champion and F1 driver Danny Sullivan.

In what is a momentous year for Goodwood, we are very much looking forward to celebrating Carroll Shelby as an iconic figure, whose legacy is keenly felt at Goodwood and in the wider motorsport world.

Goodwood held a very special place in my grandfather’s heart,” said Aaron Shelby, board member of Carroll Shelby International. “He competed there as a driver in an Aston Martin and returned to race at the Circuit with the Shelby American team cars during the 1960s. Carroll attended the Goodwood Revival with his Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe, and as a Word War II aviator he especially admired the vintage warbird exhibit. We’re honoured that the Duke of Richmond and his team have chosen to honour the 100thanniversary of Carroll’s birthday this year. We look forward to a marvellous weekend at the Goodwood Revival.

The Duke of Richmond said: “It’s such a privilege to be celebrating Carroll Shelby at the Goodwood Revival this year. He was a good friend and I remember when Carroll first came to the Revival back in 2000 – having raced and famously won at Goodwood in the 1959 TT – bringing with him his infectious personality and competitive spirit. It will be wonderful to see those glorious cars that Carroll raced and designed in action at Goodwood once again over the weekend.”

Taking place across the weekend, the Shelby tribute will join the full race schedule for the Goodwood Revival, Friday 8 – Sunday 10 September.

For more Goodwood Festival of Speed and Goodwood Revival check out our Shows dedicated page Goodwood Festival of Speed and Goodwood Revival Show News

or head to official Goodwood Festival of Speed and Goodwood Revival website https://www.goodwood.com/motorsport/