- MotoFest 2026 expands beyond racing to include the new MotoFest Bike Show with manufacturer, apparel and accessory displays
- Riders can now pre-book 40-minute demo rides on more than 30 new models from Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, Kawasaki, KTM and CFMoto
- The event still hosts round three of the Star Insure New Zealand Superbike Championship at Hampton Downs Motorsport Park
Long known as a key stop on the New Zealand Superbike calendar, MotoFest is stepping into a much bigger role in 2026. No longer just about championship racing, MotoFest has officially expanded into the MotoFest Bike Show – a full-scale motorcycle festival featuring manufacturer stands, apparel and accessory displays, and for the first time, bookable demo rides on the latest new bikes.
Running from March 6–8, 2026, at Hampton Downs Motorsport Park, the event now combines high-level racing, a major bike show and hands-on riding experiences in one weekend.
A major new drawcard is the launch of the MotoFest Bike Show road test programme, with riders able to pre-book 40-minute test rides on a wide range of current models from Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, Kawasaki, KTM and CFMoto.
The online booking platform is now live, with each participating manufacturer committing at least five bikes, meaning more than 30 models will be available for road testing across the weekend.
“Each manufacturer has made at least five new bikes from their range available, so over 30 models will be available for test rides,” says MotoFest promoter Mike Marsden.
Test ride slots are limited, with priority given to ticket holders, reinforcing MotoFest’s shift toward a full festival experience rather than a race-only event.
“Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, Kawasaki, KTM and CF Moto are all signed up for the event, and will also have large static displays on site,” Marsden adds. “It’s shaping up to become the major motorcycle festival in New Zealand.”
So what bikes are going to be available for test rides? Check out the list below where you’ll also find links that will take you directly to the page to buy tickets and make a booking. With limited spots available, if there’s something you’re really keen on taking for a spin, best option would be to get in quick and secure your spot.
THE BIKES AVAILABLE FOR DEMO ARE:
CFMOTO
Demo models available:
500SR, 450MT, 800MT-X, 675NK, 675SR-R, 450SR, 800N, 450CL-C
HONDA
Demo models available:
Africa Twin, Transalp, CBR650R, CMX500 Rebel, GB350
KAWASAKI
Demo models available:
Vulcan S, KLR650, Ninja 1100SX, Ninja 500, Ninja ZX-6R
KTM
Demo models available:
390 Duke, 390SMC-R, 990 Duke, 990RC-R, 890SMT, 390 Adventure, RC390
SUZUKI
Demo models available:
GSX-S1000GX, GSX-8TT, V-Strom 800DE, V-Strom 250SX, DR-Z4SM
YAMAHA
Demo models available:
XSR900GP, MT-09Y-AMT, YZF-R7LA, Tracer 7, Ténéré 700 World Raid
While the Bike Show adds a new dimension, racing remains central to the weekend, with MotoFest also hosting round three of the Star Insure New Zealand Superbike Championship.
“New bikes, race bikes, classic bikes, custom bikes, iconic bikes, racing legends, road tests and off-road vehicle rides are going to bring the inaugural MotoFest Bike Show to life in 2026,” Marsden says.
Adding extra incentive for attendees, MotoFest is offering a $10,000 gate prize, split
across Saturday and Sunday, redeemable with participating exhibitors. You must buy your tickets before the event to qualify for the draws, which will take place at 2pm each day. Winners must be at the venue to claim the prize.
🎟 For tickets and test ride bookings, visit:
https://www.nzsuperbikeseries.co.nz/motofestbikeshow
