News, views and reviews
Our regular look at what’s happening in the off-road world, events to go to, series updates, perhaps a book or DVD or two.
Yes, it’s almost upon us – it is nearly offroader Christmas! What d’you mean ‘what’s he on about’? The Classic Dirt Bike Show, sponsored by Hagon Shocks on February 18/19, 2017, that’s what! Also known as ‘Wrighty’s’ or ‘Telford’ this classic off-road extravaganza has become ‘the’ gathering for us dirt enthusiasts. Whether you’re a trials rider, enduro fan or Mxer in solo or sidecar disciplines there’s something for everyone. The show is dead easy to find, being just off the M54 at Telford. Our shows team has been busy coordinating displays, securing autojumblers, sounding out guests, planning stage talks, along with lots of other great attractions to fill your day. There are a number of presentations taking place on stage over the two days with winners of both of CDB’S sponsored series – the Northern British Bike Series and the Classic British Scrambles series – to receive their trophies from guest of honour Roger Harvey. In addition, the popular Kia Twinshock Series will be gathering their winners together for their prize-giving on Saturday, February 18.
A main theme of the shows has been guest stars for stage and dinner duty and this year is no different in that respect. Though the show in general attracts all sorts of motorcycling stars just taking in the show, many are still racing and competing too, the difference is our named guests are expected to speak on stage and at the Classic Dinner Bash on the Saturday evening.
This popular event has this year settled on a three-speaker format with each course having its own lead in. Stepping up and singing for their suppers this year are head lad at Duke Marketing, former ISDT competitor Peter Duke; legendary photographer and latterly compere, Jack Burnicle and finally, former British 125 MX champion, Yamaha and Honda team manager Roger Harvey.
Head to the information desk at the show to enquire about availability for the dinner but be aware these places will be limited.
So, plenty going on – add in all the bikes which will represent every off-road discipline and the only thing missing is you – see you at Telford International Centre.
Arrangements for the 2017 series are almost complete. The programme is likely to contain six rounds and again, they are all AMCA clubs and include:
April 23: Bath Classic @ Yatton Keynell, near Chippenham, Wilts. June 4: Cumbria Classic @ Blencarn, near Penrith, Cumbria. July 16: Mortimer Classic @ Bennetts Hill, Theale, near Reading. August 6: North Devon (Atlantic) @ Combe Martin, North Devon. August 27: Moseley (Birmingham) MCC @ Hanbury, Worcestershire. October 1: Llanthony Classic @ Llanthony, near Abergavenny.
In 2017 there is unlikely to be a championship round at Abbeycwmhir (MidWales Classic). Mortimer Classic will, for the first time, accept Japanese solos for their championship event.