Groundhog, shmoundhog...it's not rodents on a cloudy day that gets North Bay motorcyclists excited, it's warmer temperatures and longer days, and an itch that yearns to be scratched.
Yup, its that time of year...motorcycle shows appear and local dealers get ready for the onslaught of owners that neglected to fix their bikes in the fall, and now have waited till the last minute to get it done...at the same time as thousands of others remember they need service also.
Jody Pearce, a 30 year employee of North Bay Cycle says he expects adventure-touring bikes, ones that will go off-road as well as on smooth pavement, to be a hot item this year but has also noticed the sale of luxury bikes is strong.
Pearce says bike shows, like the Motorcycle Show in Toronto this weekend, create a buzz to kick of the riding season.
"Everyone is excited because we had such an extended season last year. We had customers that showed up Christmas Eve on their bikes and they were excited. I hope we have a good spring, the weather really dictates our success. When the sun comes out and it gets a little bit warmer everyone gets excited"
El Nino is expected to bring a warmer than normal spring for our area says Environment Canada.
A Honda demo ride is booked for Saturday May 21st at North Bay Cycle.
Dan Carlson, owner of Carlson Sports, says his 4th annual Heart and Stroke fundraiser, which attracted over 40 riders last summer, is on tap for Saturday May 28th. He'll also host a Yamaha demo day, but the date isn't nailed down.
Sales of bikes are already strong he says, and has a theory.
"The weather has been so poor for snowmobiling and it started so late, it's almost like, if people are going to spend their money they are turning towards motorcycles, especially with the days getting longer and the motorcycle show coming up. Inquiries are crazy."
Meanwhile, the Toronto Motorcycle Show, presented by Dalton Timmis Insurance, takes place at the Enercare Centre, Exhibition Place, starting tomorrow (Friday) until Sunday.
It's the 29th edition of the Show and showcases the industry’s biggest brands, their newest models, and the latest technical innovations for motorcycles, ATVs, side-by-sides and scooters, along with riding gear, accessories and travel destinations.
In additional to the more than 500 bikes on display, there are thrilling stunt shows, beginner riding lessons for children, a special night for female riders, and two big draws for new motorcycles.
With women being drawn into the sport in greater numbers, this year the "She Rides Nite" features half-price admission for ladies after 5 p.m. Friday, and industry experts will be on hand to provide information and advice specific to the needs of the female rider.
Team Empire Freestyle Stunt Team features American freestyle riders Nick “Apex” Brocha and Ernie "EDub" Vigil, who travel the world showcasing their motorcycle stunt-riding prowess before live audiences. They have built a large online following, where their popular chase adventure videos have totaled over 100 million YouTube hits.
See an example here: Motorcycle vs Car drift battle
