Manchester National Bike Show

Simon (Chimes), Drew, Garf & Sue (Precious Metal), Steve & Julie (SteveG), Stu & Lainey (Stuey), and a mate of Simon's, Andrew, made it to what was, by all accounts, an excellent and greatly improved show this year.  Unfortunately, Clive & Kit didn't make it as they had both come down with feverish colds that kept them abed for a few days.

Although originally described as a smaller and less attractive event than the annual NEC one, given the decline of the NEC in recent years, the disenchantment of many manufacturers over the NEC venue, and hence their greater commitment to regional shows, it was hardly surprising that the Manchester event proved to be so good, and much more extensive.  It was also a great boost for a few of the Ferrets to get together so early in the new year.

One of the highlights of the events was being able to slag off the new Triumph Tiger, in front of Stu - who had recently placed his own order for one!  Sure they were only joking mate J

It was interesting that the local Honda dealer's stand, Hunts, was well attended by both Hunts' staff and what seemed to be possibly Honda UK people.  A great deal of interest was shown over possible improvements to the Blackbird, expressed by Chimes, after his asking if a new one was on the horizon.  Maybe this means something, but then, maybe not!

The Williams BMW stand stood out head and shoulders above the rest, with a very good selection of bikes.  In fact, the number of bikes on display was far greater than previous years, and there wasn't the usual stands selling cheap leathers, and the like, that you've never heard of.

Wonderfully, there was a full stand of beautiful Benelli machines, often overlooked in the Italian exotica sector.  Mind you, a great deal of drooling was done over the Ducati 1098.

Anyway, here are just a few shots taken by Simon, that give at least an inkling of how good the day was.....

Photographs courtesy of Chimes

Page Updated

28/06/2008 23:54