A great success
By TMX Archives on 12th Dec 07
THE Dirt Bike Show, which was staged later in the year than normal due to the larger NEC bike showtaking over its traditional date, proved to be a major success last week when staged at Stoneleigh Park and was a welcome end of season shot-in-the-arm for the off-road trade. It was a very positively-charged show with a great atmosphere and we are happy to print the official press release from The Dirt Bike Show organisers. Over 21,000 people visited the 2007 Dirt Bike Show, 10% up on the previous year, and one of the best-attended in the history of the four-day event.
There was certainly plenty to see, with 17 bike and quad manufacturers, including Adly, AJP, Aprilia, Beta, BMW, Can-Am, CCM, Honda, Husaberg, Husqvarna, Kawasaki, KTM, Sherco, Scorpa, Suzuki, TM and Yamaha. On top of that, visitors could browse their way around the latest gear on 100 clothing and accessory display stands, then pick up a bargain or that must-have bit kit on one of the 50 retail specialists.
Plenty of sporting celebrities were in evidence too – on Thursday, Billy MacKenzie was presented with a brand new Kawasaki ZX-6R road bike as a reward for his efforts in MX1 and on the Friday Stefan Everts made a flying visit. Many road racers learned their craft on dirt bikes. Former World Superbike champ Troy Corser and British Superbike riders Chris Walker and Cal Crutchlow called in for a look around.
For many people, the Live Arena is the highlight of the Show and this year was no exception. Steve Colley returned with a new act and gave a simultaneous commentary over a radio microphone while performing his unique stunts. The pro-celebrity minibike racing lived up to expectations, with MX riders of the calibre of Carl Nunn and James Cottrill battling it out with MiniBike Champions Trevor Scott and Jonny Groves. Not forgetting the MiniBike FMX riders Arron, Dan and Joe performing flippin' amazing tricks, including in-line back-flips
Free attractions included the high-energy fashion show on the Live Stage, quad rides for children, a climbing wall and regular displays by the UK's number one bike trials rider Danny Butler
"We've had a great show,” commented Paul de Lusignan of Suzuki GB. "The Dirt Bike Show has proved the best place to launch our new fuel-injected four-stroke to the core market of serious dirt bike riders and we're already looking forward to next year.”
Rock Star energy drink chose the Dirt Bike Show to launch to the UK off-road market and provided awelcome boost for Show-goers and exhibitors alike.
"The success of this year's Show has proved to be a welcome morale-booster for the trade at the end of a tough year and means that the industry can move forward into 2008 in a positive mind-set,” stated Show Co-ordinator Joanne Watson of Promoto.
Dates for the 2008 Dirt Bike Show are currently being finalised, but it is expected to run at Stoneleigh Park next November. Full details and dates just as soon as they are available.
