Inclement weather failed to dampen the mood of motorcycle enthusiasts who joined media for the opening day of Moto Expo presented by Shannons Insurance at Melbourne Showgrounds.
The prestigious 2018 bikesales ‘Bike of the Year’ announcement launched proceeding with Kawasaki’s Z9 900RS Café taking the top award from the 11 category winners.
The morning’s media walk ensued, with the covers come off a range of incredible new model motorcycles. Avid motorcycle enthusiast Shannon Noll was a popular addition to the GasGas stand and helped launch the new GasGas 300.
MV Agusta presented the new and improved 2019 Turismo Veloce 800 Lusso SCS. The performance touring motorcycle boasts superbike style acceleration and is capable of going from 0 to 100km per hour in 3.2 seconds.
Event Organiser Troy Bayliss said it was a great start to the show.
“It was great to see so many new bikes launched this morning,” Bayliss said. “In addition to those that were part of the media walk, there are also new to the market bikes and products on the other stands.
“We were excited to hold the world-wide unveiling of the Savic Motorcycles C40 prototype. It is great to see a young Australian entrepreneur designing and producing a motorcycle here in Australia.
“We have a full program of entertainment and activities that kick off this afternoon with stunt shows from Showtime FMX, Jack Field and Dean Ross which we will run when we have breaks in the weather.
“With eighty per cent of Moto Expo held indoors the show is also the perfect activity for those wanting to escape the weather,” he added.
Tomorrows show feature include ‘Crumpy’s City Slide’ presented by Royal Enfield, a signature flat-track event of three-time Speedway World Champion Jason Crump.
Crumpy’s City Slide gives licenced motorcycle riders the opportunity to put their machines to the test on a purpose-built gravel flat track in the heart of the city, the event is not a race, it is a social activity for bikes of all shapes and is limited to just 200 participants.
Entry to watch Crumpy’s City Slide is included as part of all general admission tickets.
Event-goers are also invited to enjoy the City Slide bands and entertainment featuring the talented and award-winning Shaun Kirk and dynamic power blues band The Ugly Kings in the City Slide pavilion on Saturday between 6.00pm – 9.00pm. Entry is $5 and includes a ticket in the draw to win a Royal Enfield 350 Classic motorcycle.
Showcasing the latest motorcycles, scooters, ATV’S, side-by-sides and much more the 2018 Moto Expo will also give visitors the opportunity to engage with industry experts, test ride a range of Yamaha UTV and ATV’s as well as be entertained by a full program of demonstrations, stunts, and special features.
*Images courtesy of Russell Colvin
