Wow, what a weekend! Yep, that’s another huge tick for the annual NZ Motorcycle Show, continuing to impress with the class of bikes on display, as well as the awesome environment put on by the organisers, event staff, volunteers, competitors, and trade staff alike. Being surrounded by machines both new and old in one massive event is special in itself, but also being able to freely talk to people in the industry, that speaks volumes about the atmosphere that is the country’s biggest motorcycle specific show.
Almost all of the big name manufacturers had their bikes on display, and there were a few very notable bikes unveiled in front of the public eye for the first time here. Indian Motorcycles highly anticipated FTR 1200 impressed spectators with its brute-muscle presence, detailed with LED’s and TFT, we’re looking forward to spending some more time with this bike! Even Australia hasn’t seen it in person yet, so it was cool to see the bike first.
Suzuki’s new GSX-S 1000 Katana looked good in all black, even with all the controversy it has been creating among riders and the general public. Yes, it is a rekindling of the old Katana from the 80’s, but based on new technology, new geometry, and not solely to impress fans of the original bike. In person, the lines of the bike work well together, it definitely stands out from the crowd with the Katana-esque headlight surround. In the eyes of newer motorcycle enthusiasts that maybe aren’t so familiar with the original Katana, I think this bike will renew the iconic model branding.
Royal Enfield proudly uncovered their new 650 Twins, the Continental GT, and the Interceptor, both receiving praise from onlookers. With a reinvigorated marketing plan from the company executives, both bikes are built to very high standards, and are very appealing to their intended customer base. The Continental GT with a cleaner, newer look including a silver over black paint shceme, café-styled tail section, and lower handlebars, would suit a younger generation of rider. The Interceptor on the other hand, more classic in design with polished silver wheels and paint, higher ‘bars, and a cross-stitched seat might be more inviting to a discerning rider, and wouldn’t look out of place at all on say, the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride.
As well as the new models, several of the older bikes on display as part of the private feature hall were equally impressive – if not even more so! Obvious stand-outs included a stunning race-replica Ducati Desmosedici RR, in Marlboro colours. Another Ducati that appealed to the judges was a super clean blue and silver Desmo 900 Super Sport, the owner receiving four gold ribbons for their efforts. Every manner of ‘classic’ bike was in attendance, which was awesome to be a part of. We’re already looking forward to seeing what the country’s home DIY mechanics can finish in the next 12 calendar months for the 2019 showcase!
For a full review on the show, check out the upcoming feature article in Bike Rider Magazine. See you all again at the next one!
