This show billed as “the South’s first motorcycle show to test bikes, bargains and your skills.” This event in conjunction with an insurance company was held at the Goodwood Race Circuit in Sussex.

This magnificent estate is now better known for its horseracing, golf and of course the Goodwood Festival of speed and Revival. The Goodwood Motor Circuit was Britain’s most prestigious circuit for eighteen years from 1948-1966 and was built around the airstrip which was created as an extra airfield for the nearby Tangmere airfield by Frederick, the  9th Duke of Richmond, Lennox, Gordon and Aubigny. .

Despite a rocky start to publicising the event when there was confusion over sale of tickets, pre book only at first, it seemed the world and his wife was talking about this in the south in the last couple of weeks. Even though there was some discussion over the tagline as it seems they forgot the old Kent BMF show or even the bike shows which used to be held at Beaulieu.  

However commeth the day and it was sunny and blustery so a good run down to the course, with the upcoming festival of speed signage out it did lead to some confusion, but we eventually parked up on the track.

The turn out was impressive for a first show as I had to walk some way I did note that customs were in the minority. Though once in the show the first site was vale motorcycles with their cool racer and brand new trials bike. Also for those that liked customs Attitude Cycles, Foundry Motorcycles, Custom Chrome, Motorcycle Workshop with an eclectic mix and Outlaw Motorcycles all had a stand.

Indian, Triumph and Moto Guzzi had great stands and I have always fancied a Guzzi California so a good chance to sling a leg over.

However there had been a conscious effort in going for high level stalls, which was a shame as some friends would have spent money at normal stalls selling bike gear but there were none available.

With some relaxed music and sunshine it was great to catch up with folk and many spent the time relaxing and listening to music with a picnic. Now a picnic was a good idea as unfortunately being on the goodwood estate we were trapped with their prices £8.50 for a burger or £8.00 bacon roll and tea is steep anywhere.

So overall what was the feeling of this event, as a first attempt it was good, but there was a feeling from many that £20 entry (if not pre booked with a discount code) and a lack of big wow factor when there is a nice racetrack to play on, maybe a stunt show or moving displays would help and justify the cost. Also the food prices were just too much. Maybe they should look at how Dublin did it in March (without the rain please) to rejig another year.

I stopped off at a fast food restaurant on the way home and then had a cracking ride back through the Sussex countryside, so enjoyed the day anyway.