Where to go
October 13-15, Brands Hatch, Fawkham, Kent
The ‘Showdown’ format (where only the top six riders fight it out for the title over the last three rounds) may be controversial but, like it or loathe it, it usually makes for committed racing all the way to the last lap of the last race. Reigning champion, Shakey Byrne, went into the Showdown phase ahead of Leon Haslam and Josh Brookes, with Jake Dixon, Peter Hickman and Jason O’halloran all in with a shout. The final Brands Hatch round is a triple header — three Superbike races. As well as the Superbikes, there are Superstock 1000 and 600 and Supersport championships to tie up, one-make action with the Ducati Tri-options cup and the KTM RC cup, and upcoming young racers trying to make their mark in the Hel Motostar Championship, fought out on 250cc Moto3 bikes. britishsuperbike.com
Classic Bike Live October 28-29, East of England Showground, Peterborough, Cambs
Plenty to see and do all weekend, with trade stands, club stands, celebrities (guest of honour is TT hero John Mcguinness) and hundreds of bikes, many being started and run. Got a classic? Why not bring it along for a chance to win ‘Best in Show’? Looking for a project? There’ll be lots of bikes and parts available. Tickets £9 in advance, kids go free. classicbikelive.co.uk
International Dirt Bike Show October 26-29, Stoneleigh, Kenilworth, Warwickshire
If classics aren’t your thing, how about a dirty weekend? Actually, it’s not very dirty at all. The Dirt Bike Show takes place at the National Agricultural Exhibition Centre and, for all things off-road, it’s the place to be. See all the latest bikes, kit and accessories as well as demonstrations, stunt shows, minibike racing and France v Germany at Motoball (very silly – check out the video on the website). Tickets £13 in advance, £16 on the door, family tickets from £30. Go on the opening day though, and you get in for just £8) and it’s also free for kids under 10). dirtbikeshow.co.uk
Motorcycle Live November 18-26, NEC, Birmingham
The biggest show of the year. All the major manufacturers will be showing off 2018’s new models, with specials, classics, dirt bikes, race bikes, kit, test rides, stunt shows and celebs. Tickets from £19.50. motorcyclelive.co.uk
Santa’s On A Bike December 2, various start points and destinations
Not one event but various separate charity rideouts held on the same day, focusing on children’s charities and hospices — now in its 13th year. santasonabike.org.uk
Southern Classic Off-road Show December 2, Kempton Park, Middlesex
Classic off-road and racing bikes on show, alongside the regular autojumble and trade stands. Tickets £10 for adults, under-12s free. kemptonparkautojumble.co.uk
Boxing Day Cold Turkey meet December 26, Ace Café, Stonebridge, London
Avoid the Christmas misery with a rideout. No big deal, just get away from the leftover sprouts. Everyone welcome from 10am until 4pm. acecafeevents.com
Unwanted MCC New Year’s Eve party December 31, The Rockbar, Burton-on-trent
Rock disco, beer, more beer. Entry £6. Free camping (or crash out in the clubhouse - might be warmer!), free parking. unwantedmcc.co.uk
Brass Monkey Run January 7, Victoria pub, Coalville, Leics
Meet up at this friendly boozer, freeze your things off on a scenic ride round rural Leicestershire, then back to the pub for tea and bacon butties. vicbikerspub.co.uk