Getting revved up at 2015 Motorcycle Show
Annual exhibition has something to kick-start the Easy Rider in both men and women
The 2015 Motorcycle Show puts the kickstand up Friday through Sunday at Tradex in Abbotsford.
Featuring the latest rides from the world’s top manufacturers, vintage bike displays, an abundance of industry exhibitors, and shows by some of the most talented stunt and trials riders in North America, the three-day show has something for every two-wheeled enthusiast.
Those new to the sport can learn basic techniques during daily interactive training seminars, youngsters can learn to ride at the free Yamaha Riding Academy for Kids, and riders of all skill levels can check out the Team Empire stunt riders and demonstrations by the Canadian Pacific Trials Association.
The show kicks off Friday with SHE Rides night, celebrating female riders of all ages, skill levels and riding styles. Women get in for half price after 5 p.m. and can enter for a chance to win a brand new motorcycle.
But it’s the new bikes that most showgoers come for. Here’s a look at three must-sees: Deeley Harley-Davidson is bringing the Project LiveWire Experience Tour to Vancouver.
Project LiveWire is the first Harley with an electric motor, but this model stays true to their classic look, sound and feel. As Harley says, “think electric guitar — not electric car.” Not only will they have a model on display for riders to explore up close, but they’re also bringing their Jumpstart Demo — a riding simulator that doesn’t require any experience or a motorcycle licence. The prototype will be in the Vancouver area for one weekend only.
Then there’s the brand new Polaris Slingshot, unlike anything else at the show.
It’s a three-wheeled, street legal, SxS motorcycle with an open-air cockpit and low-set chassis, giving both the driver and the passenger an incredible riding experience. Combining its futuristic-roadster look with the five-speed manual transmission, four-cylinder engine, ABS, electronic stability control, and media console which includes an LCD screen, back up camera, Bluetooth-integration and six-speaker audio system, the Slingshot fuses the comforts and control of a sports car with the multi-sensory rush of a traditional motorcycle.
Honda achieved one milestone in 2014 with the production of its 300-millionth motorcycle, and will have another in 2015 with the Gold Wing, celebrating its 40th anniversary as one of the most iconic touring machines on the market. Over the years, Honda has moulded this bike into the epitome of comfort and style, positioning it as the standard-setter in the industry, and is celebrating the milestone with a special 40th Anniversary Edition of the Gold Wing, as well as unique 40th Anniversary emblems on all 2015 Gold Wing models.