ABBOTSFORD IN GEAR FOR THIS WEEKEND’S MOTORCYCLE SHOW
Annual show’s stellar lineup of bikes draws enthusiasts and wannabes to Tradex Centre
Almost a half-century has passed since Easy Rider, arguably the best biker movie of all time, roared onto the silver screen, yet the film’s legendary status and mass appeal lives on today at events like this weekend’s Motorcycle Show Vancouver.
Running today through Sunday at the Tradex Exhibition Centre in Abbotsford, the show has consistently attracted riders and rider wannabes of all ages and ability.
Featuring the latest gear, live demonstrations, motorcycle giveaways, local musical entertainment, a brand new lineup of 2016 motorcycles, ATVs and scooters as well as the classics, the show once again is a family-friendly event no one should miss.
Spectators can expect to see their favourites at the show like Team Empire which is back by popular demand, She Rides Nite, running today from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. where women in attendance can enter the draw for a 2016 Kawasaki Ninja 300, the Yamaha Riding Academy which is an exclusive feature at the Vancouver show, and the grand prize giveaway — a 2016 Bonneville 800 Street Twin provided by Triumph Motorcycles and valued at $12,000. Some show highlights:
New to the show this year is Indian Motorcycle, which will introduce their new lineup which includes a middleweight cruiser, the Indian Scout ABS, the touring Indian Roadmaster and the Indian Chief Dark Horse featuring a matte black finish from end-to-end.
Honda’s show fleet will include the brand new Honda CRFL1000L Africa Twin, described as a blend of advanced technology and multi-terrain durability. Spectators will also see Honda’s two new full-sized models for 2016 — the Pioneer 1000 and 1000S.
Harley Davidson Canada will introduce its sleek Road Glide Ultra with its touring essentials and newly styled Forty-Eight, which features a bold new front end, burly Dark Custom styling, and big comfort improvements.
BMW Motorrad is debuting the 2016 S1000XR. Based on the successful S platform, the XR features great performance, agility, upright riding position and sporty adventure riding. BMW has also modified their F700GS and F800GS models for this year, with new tank covers, ignition lock covers and electroplated fairing pieces and an updated paint finish.
For 2016 Triumph has introduced the next generation of Bonneville with five exciting new motorcycles. Each model represents an evolution of the iconic Bonneville styling, all featuring an all-new Bonneville engine family.
Kawasaki promises to up the wow factor with its Ninja ZX-14R bike which features advanced electronics, an innovative frame and ultra-powerful 1,441cc inline fourcylinder engine. Not to be outclassed by the Ninja, Kawasaki’s 2016 Vulcan S ABS Cafe should excite show fans as well with its adjustable cruising features and Ninja-derived power.
Yamaha is bringing out its Y2450F model which has a modified engine and launch control system for those riders who need faster starts. And if you’re looking for the ultimate in suburban commuter comfort, check out Yamaha’s BWs 125 which has been given a stylish makeover for the new year.
The name Ducati may be synonymous with speed but in 2016, that could be challenged now that the brand has joined the cruiser world with its bike the X Diavel. Called “low-speed excitement”, the newest model maintains typical Ducati high performance and sleek style with ergonomic design and cutting-edge technology. Ducati is also featuring its new Multistrada 1200 Enduro, equipped with adapting power and suspension as well as ABS and traction control that ensures the operator can tackle any kind of terrain.
BRP is also rolling out its cruiser line with additions of the F3-T and F3 Limited models to its existing F3, F3-S Special Series vehicles in the Can-Am Spyder F3 lineup. These new models are said to be loaded with comfort and convenience features, offering greater freedom, flexibility, and extra cargo space.
Suzuki has plans to showcase its newest retro cruiser, the TU250X. This classically styled, fuel-efficient motorcycle comes with spoked wheels, a round headlight and lowslung tapered muffler.
For those looking to find a crossover bike, Victory has rolled out its 2016 Cross Country 8-Ball featuring comforts such as spacious lockable saddlebags, a sound system that can handle wind and engine rumble and a 106ci Freedom V-Twin.
KTM is bringing the new Freeride 250R to the show — a bike that reportedly bridges the gap between a full-sized enduro and trials. As its name suggests, the Freeride is supposed to give riders confidence to navigate difficult and trials-type terrain and also provide the comfort needed for all-day riding.
Finally, Italian manufacturer Piaggio is featuring its Fly 50, a light and easy-to-handle bike. Considered sleek and stylish, the Fly 50 comes with a four stroke HI-PER4 50cc engine for maximum efficiency and impressive economy. The safety features include a protective shield and rigid steel tube frame.