London bike fans’ best chance to see the all latest new models, helmets, accessories and clothing - as well as breathtaking stunts and ‘have-a-go’ sessions - is looming, with MCL25 throwing open its doors next month.
With the demise of the traditional and popular London Motorcycle Show - usually staged at ExCeL in February - all riders’ eyes will now be on MCL25 (previously Motorcycle Live) at Birmingham’s NEC, an hour and a half’s train ride from the capital.
Opening its doors from November 15 - 23, the show is claimed to be bigger and better than ever before, with all the major manufacturers showcasing their latest new machinery, alongside the rest of their ranges.
Riders itching to try out their dream machine are in luck too; the Elite Test Ride Zone will see bike makers lay on selected models for free test rides, with all safety equipment provided by AGV, Arai and RST, so that show-goers arriving by train or car won’t need to take their own kit. Product technicians will be on hand too, to ensure all the kit fits correctly and safely.
Riders will be accompanied by experienced outriders, who will be able to give expert feedback on show-goers’ riding technique, also offering the opportunity to ask questions and learn from experienced instructors. Organisers are stressing that the rides are open only to riders who have held a relevant UK licence for 12 months, and have no more than six points. The rides will be booked on a first come, first served basis, with bookings taken morning and afternoon.
Brake time
In the Learn To Ride Zone, meanwhile, new riders will be able to make their first moves on two wheels, enjoying free lessons with a professional instructor – protective clothing is all provided, too. Novices aged 14 and over - including those returning to riding - will be shown how to use the brakes, gears and to tackle slow speed handling under the guidance of expert instructors.
Younger aspiring riders will be catered for too, at the Balance Bike Park, where they will be able to enjoy motorcycle-style ‘push-along’ bicycles on a special, supervised circuit. Age range? “If they can sit on the seat and hold the handlebars, they can have a go!”, say the organisers.
At Youth Electric Motocross Experience, a purpose-built dirt track will also offer a thrilling riding experience for younger visitors. Children aged between four and twelve will be kitted out in motocross gear before being let loose on a track designed for novices and more experienced young riders, under the supervision of experienced instructors. Tyros will need to bring their own sturdy footwear - such as walking boots - that protect ankles, and there will be a £20 charge.
Other attractions that have proved hugely popular in previous years include ‘Superbike Sim’, where speed-hounds can ‘race’ each other on a challenging virtual ride around the Silverstone International Circuit, on a racing simulator used by pro racers. And all without the possibility of falling off...
At the new-for-2025 E-Ride Zone, show-goers will be able to test out a range of electric motorcycles on a special indoor track. Anyone wanting to have a go will need a full A, A1 or A2 licence; all protective clothing is provided.
Also new for 2025, the Heritage Zone, presented by the National Motorcycle Museum, will mount a celebration dedicated to the 80th Anniversary of VE Day, with 10 notable bikes from the last eight decades on display, including a World War 1 Clyno Machine Gun Sidecar & World War 2 Norton 16H. The museum’s Restoration Team will be on the stand every day, showing how they restore some of the oldest bikes in Britain.
At BMW Motorrad’s ‘Make Life A Ride’ Arena, expert riders from the firm’s Off Road Skills program will be demonstrating their skills on a range of motorcycles. In between the demos, riders will be able to speak with the crew to ask questions. The Arena will also stage chats with leading BMW racers, who will reveal their exploits on tracks around the world.
Happy birthdays
Suzuki will celebrate four decades of the GSX-R model with an anniversary display of bikes and special guests, and Motorcycle News (MCN) will be celebrating its 70th anniversary by showcasing their ‘Bikes of the Era’ models, representing seven of the most pivotal legendary models from 1955 to the present day.
At the Black Horse stage, motorcycle race legends will be entertaining show-goers with stories and inside information, while there will also be a daily quiz for motorcycle know-it-alls... At Expert Lab, Grace Webb will host sessions probing the latest technology and innovation, while at The Machine Shop, experts will give budding DIY-ers the chance to have a go at welding, sandblasting and powder coating.
Adrenaline junkies will be able to watch the Moto Action Show, teaming high-flying FMX displays with technical trials skills, while there will also be live music, an Isle of Man TT simulator and countless exhibitors with the very latest motorcycle protective clothing, tools, machinery and other treats for riders, alongside street food vendors.
Parking for those driving from London is £10 if booked in advance, while details of train deals with discounts for show-goers can be found at https://www.avantiwestcoast.co.uk/mcl2025
“With news of the recent cancellation of the long running London Motorcycle Show at ExCeL, MCL will be the only opportunity to see the latest models, for the first time under one roof,” says Finlay McAllan, Managing Director, MCIA Events Ltd.
“We’ve got over 46 manufacturers displaying their 2026 machines and a number of exclusive UK launches planned. We’re set to deliver an amazing day out and it’s not just about bikes – there’s a festival vibe, with live bands, a DJ, street food, stunt shows and riding opportunities for kids and adults alike, making it a great day out for the whole family.”
More at www.motorcyclelive.co.uk
