Dirt Bike Show - 2009 |
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 The annual Dirt Bike show kicked off its tenth year with a spectacular first day at Stoneleigh Park Warwickshire. Staff at Inter-bike spent the day amongst thousands of fans of off-road sport walking around modern well lit and laid out displays spread over a massive three halls.Certainly anybody that remembers the very humble beginnings of this show years ago in the docks at Bristol, will have to agree the show has moved up from first to sixth gear in every respect. Despite this, the ethos of catering to those who prefer soft surfaces to tarmac has continued. Although only KTM and Husqvarana importers chose direct support with their full 2010 ranges and on display, the Japanese manufacturers supported dealers and race teams who parked their ‘works’ trucks in the main Hall 2. Sherco chose the show to launch their latest trials iron the ST2 9 with the help of a delightful X Factor contestant singing, while making trials riding gear look very desirable. On the same stage those with masochistic tendencies tried their physical and mental strength to the full by holding two motocross tyres at arms length as long as they could stand the pain! These competitions to win goody bags were followed at regular intervals by energetic fashions displays of all the latest colourful motocross clothing. For those tempted into retail therapy as result of this, Hall 3 had numerous dealers selling not only the latest, but some of this years clothing and equipment at bargain prices. Tools, equipment and leisure clothing was also for sale along with the odd adventure trip. Despite the many screens showing some action, there was also a stage in Hall 1with extreme pedal cycle action taking place, while outside there was a kick-start trials arena. Just so the road bike fan did not feel left out , the front of the main entrance saw the Vertical Trix stunt bike which trains riders to wheelie in complete safety. Amongst the many visitors could be found stars from both the present and past. Sammy Miller once invincible in trials was there to see how trials bikes have progressed. TT winner Mick Grant who now rides classic trials was there along with scrambles ace Roger Harvey who now looks after Motocross for Honda Europe, trials legend Malcolm Rathmell – this list could go on and would include many of today’s top riders! The show is on for another three days at Stoneleigh (until the 8th) and our advice on today’s showing is get along and check it out. Full information on times and location can be found on www.dirtbikeshow.co.uk Article by Ian Kerr
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