Classic Motor Show launches hall dedicated to motorcycles

This year’s Classic Motor Show, held from the 14th to 16th November at Birmingham’s NEC, is expanding its interest in classic motorcycles with a brand new area dedicated to bike and scooters dating from pre-war to 80s modern classics. The Pavilion, situated next to the Classic Motor Show halls, will feature classic motorcycle clubs, displays of rare and unusual bikes, a seminar area, motorcycle traders and a ‘Bikejumble’ for people looking for that elusive part.

Show Manager Andy Rouse explains: “For the past few years we have encouraged more classic motorcycle clubs to apply for the free space that we allocate at each show. As the interest in classic bikes has grown, so has the space allocated so it’s a natural progression that we dedicate an entire hall so that enthusiasts can see even more rare and amazing motorcycles along with the exquisite cars that we always feature.

“The Pavilion has a direct link into the main show halls and entrance will be included in the ticket price, giving visitors even more value for money. With 5,000 square metres to fill, we are welcoming applications from classic motorcycle and scooter clubs for space within this area and have up to 50 slots available. If successful, each club will receive a carpeted space, free of charge, along with two entry passes for the owners of each bike displayed per day and an exclusive ticket deal for its members giving them the best discount on tickets prices.”

Demand for the free space is expected to be high as this is a great opportunity for clubs to increase their membership and raise awareness of their chosen marque so clubs are advised to contact the organisers for an application form as soon as possible. Spaces have already been allocated to those clubs who have attended with impressive displays at the show such as the BSA, BSA Bantam, Vincent and Triumph Motorcycle Owners Clubs.

Bryan Price of the BSA Bantam Owners Club, said: “The expansion will particularly good for our club as our motorcycles were the vehicles that generations learnt to ride on. We have always received a very warm reception from Classic Motor Show visitors and have signed up new members because of it. Investing in a classic motorcycle is an inexpensive way of owning a classic vehicle and with a Bantam, all you need is a set of spanners, a screwdriver and a sense of adventure.” His enthusiasm was reiterated by David Measure of the Triumph Owners Motorcycle Club. David added: “This year, we are celebrating Triumph’s 60th anniversary as well as the 50th year of the Bonneville and 40th of the Trident. The new hall is a welcome progression and we are delighted to be involved in 2008.”

The organisers are keen to feature rare and unusual motorcycles as well as the well known manufacturers, and are already in talks with motorcycle teams to secure some UK premieres of some amazing bikes from the past 50 years. They are also looking for interesting characters from the motorcycling world to feature on the seminar stage with TV Motoring presenter Mike Brewer.

Classic motorcycle clubs interested in applying for free space can download an application form from classicbikesatclassicmotor.com or can contact David Alderson on 07770 626 173 or email him at classicbikes@necclassicmotorshow.com. Every application will be considered regardless of size and membership.

Traders or companies who are interested in featuring in the new Classic Bike hall should contact Paul Crooke on 0121 767 3463 while Bike Jumblers should contact Mark Woodward on 01253 407779 to reserve a pitch.

The Classic Motor Show is open from 10am until 6.30pm on Friday, 9.30am until 6.30pm on Saturday, and 9.30am until 5.30pm on Sunday. Ticket prices range from £15 when purchased in advance. For more information, the latest updates or to book tickets, visit necclassicmotorshow.com