Everything you need to know about Motorcycle Live 2021
With Motorcycle Live just around the corner, it’s time to get plotting the annual pilgrimage – here’s everything you need to know about the event
MOTORCYCLE LIVE is back for 2021, with crowds set to be welcomed back to the NEC for the first time since 2019.
With COVID-19 closing the doors of the show and pushing it into the virtual realm in 2020, this year's show looks set to be a bumper edition of the event, with bikers from across the UK pointing their satnavs to the midlands this winter.
Motorcycle Live 2021 dates and opening times
Motorcycle Live 2021 will be running from Saturday the 4th December to Sunday the 12th December. The show will swing open its doors at 9 am each day and close at 5 pm. For those wanting to ride to the event, the free to use bike park will open one hour before the opening time and close one hour after.
Motorcycle Live 2021 tickets
To get the best deal to get into this year’s show, you’re much better off booking your tickets in advance of travelling to the event. Pre-booked tickets are on sale until the 3rd December, and are priced at £19.50 for adults, £1 for children (aged six to sixteen), while entry is free for those aged five and under.
For those preferring to turn up on the day and pay at the gate, adults will pay £25 – kids prices remain the same.
To buy your tickets, head to: www.motorcyclelive.co.uk
Drive, ride, or train?
Well, the simple answer is ride, obviously! Motorcycles can always park for free at Motorcycle Live, meaning you can jump the inevitable queue of cars heading into the event and swerve the £10 car parking charge in the process – the price goes up to £12 for on the day parking.
For those looking to take the family over to the show for the day, the car will likely be the preferred mode of transport but don’t overlook the train if you are midlands based.
With direct trains from across the country routing into Birmingham, travel to the second city is easy. And it’ll allow you a little time after the event for a beer and some food either in the NEC or one of the many bars and restaurants in the city centre.
How to ride at Motorcycle Live
Motorcycle Live isn’t just about static bikes bolted onto exhibition stands. Getting on a bike and at actually riding it has been a feature of the show for years now.
2021 is no different, and at this year’s show there are multiple chances for riders, non-riders and even children to swing a leg over a two-wheeled machine.
The Test Ride Zone
The Test Ride Zone returns in 2021, giving punters the chance to try out the latest models completely free of charge. All kit and clothing is provided too, meaning those travelling by car or train can sample a bike too.
Booking is done once you get to the show and a valid motorcycle licence for the bike being ridden is required.
MCIA TryRide
TryRide is aimed at those who have travelled on a bike as a pillion but have never taken the step up to riding for themselves. The scheme will introduce participants to the brakes, gears, and low-speed handling, hopefully setting them on their way to a life on two wheels.
TryRide is open to anyone over the age of 14 and is free of charge.
EXPERIENCE ADVENTURE PRESENTED BY HONDA, ROYAL ENFIELD & TRIUMPH
The adventure experience gives riders the chance to sample some of the best adventure motorcycles on the planet, in a controlled, training environment.
Bikes available are the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin, and the Honda CRF300L. Royal Enfield will be bringing the Himalayan along for people to try out, while Triumph will have the Scrambler 1200 XC and XE, Street Scrambler, and the awesome Triumph Tiger adventure machine.
Bookings for the Experience Adventure rides are only taken on the day. A valid licence is required and a zero tolerance to alcohol is in force.
Kiddimoto Balance Bike Experience
It’s not just two-wheeled fun for the adults at Motorcycle Live, with the Kiddimoto Balance Bike Experience being a mainstay of the show (for younger riders) for some time now. Aimed at riders from one and a half to five years old, the experience gives youngsters the chance to whizz around a controlled environment and burn off some of that endless energy.
It also gives the child wranglers a chance to relax!
Youth MX Experience
For younger riders with an MX and Enduro itch to scratch, a purpose-built dirt track will be open each and every day of the show. Those aged between four and twelve will be able to get kitted out in motocross clothing, gloves and a helmet and then unleashed on a circuit designed to give a full-on motocross experience to novices and more experienced riders alike.
Places can only be booked upon arrival at the show, and they do book up quickly so you’re advised to get booked on as early as you can. Participation is subject to availability.
Visitors are encouraged to bring your own riding equipment, however equipment will remain available for those not able to bring their own.
Get your tickets for Motorcycle Live here.
Simon (AKA Toad) has been working within the motorcycle industry for more than twelve years, and a member of the motorcyclist family since birth. Growing up around British-built single and twins, it was inevitable that a life on two wheels was on the cards, from a very early age!
