BIKERS IN QUEEN MARY’S BACKYARD
Hangin’ in there at the Progressive Motorcycle Show in Long Beach

In “Then Came Bronson”, the driver told biker Bronson, “man, I wish I was you.” Bronson offered words of comfort in reply: “Hang in there.” At the Long Beach Convention Center, bikers and drivers from all over convene to hang at the biggest two-wheeled show in town. The Progressive International Motorcycle Shows makes its third stop in a nationwide tour into the Long Beach Convention Center. Southern California is the place to see the newest model sportbikes, dirt bikes, cruisers, scooters, customs, ATVs, aftermarket parts and accessories under one roof. Here are some scenes from the press preview by LA Car biker Robert M. Shoji. Pictures by Robert M. Shoji HOT WIRE—Long Beach, CA—Bike manufacturers showcase their North American lineups, as well as the latest in aftermarket parts and accessories, at the third stop of the Progressive International Motorcycle Shows Tour in Long Beach, California. “We are excited to return to Southern California, as part of the 12-city Progressive International Motorcycle ShowsTour,” said Tracy Harris, Senior Vice President, Powersports Group. “Every level of riding enthusiast can find something here—we have all latest new model releases from manufacturers, an even better custom bike show, a wide-variety of products to try and buy, as well as a full schedule of interactive learning and entertainment options.” Features and appearances include: Demo Rides – Licensed motorcyclists who bring their own riding gear (including a helmet) can test ride the new bikes from BRP|Can-AM, Indian, Kawasaki, Harley Davidson, Star, and Victory on Saturday and Sunday, during daylight hours. These manufacturer-hosted demo rides will offer consumers the chance to hop on the latest models and take one out for a ride.

J&P Cycles Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Competition – Returning to the series for a fourth year, the world’s largest motorcycle builder competition will showcase elite-level, custom motorcycle creations vying for a cash purse prize and a chance to compete in the United States Championship finale. This competition will feature five classes including Freestyle, Modified Harley-Davidson, Modified Street, Retro Mod and Performance Custom. School of Rock – New on tour this year, Progressive and the School of Rock are teaming up to bring attendees the mix of music and motorcycles. All-star performers and graduates from the School of Rock will take center-stage with live performances throughout the weekend. ‘Race America’ Slot Bike Track — A handcrafted, motorcycle race across America’s most iconic landscapes, where you can challenge fellow bikers to a head-to-head race and win the chance to play the SurPRIZE Machine. XDL Stunt Show – The XDL Street Jam is a competition-themed demonstration of motorcycle skill performed by athletes from the XDL Championship Series. The XDL Street Jam will also feature audience interaction, motorcycle trivia challenges and some free SWAG. Vintage Club Displays – Motorcycle enthusiasts are invited to look into the past, with this display showcasing retro bikes, courtesy of local vintage motorcycle clubs. Ultimate Powersports Giveaways – Attendees will have the chance to win one of five grand prizes that include Suzuki and Triumph motorcycles and Yamaha watercrafts. Winners will be announced at the conclusion of the tour in March of 2014. Celebrity Appearances — On Saturday is the AMA Pro Superbike Panel featuring Scott Russell, Josh Hayes, Josh Herrin, Chris Ulrich and Jason Pridmore. Also X-Games Gold Medal Winner and WMX Champion Ashley Fiolek will also be in attendance to meet with fans and sign autographs. Free Motorcycle Parking and Gear Check – Free motorcycle parking will be available for all riders who ride their motorcycles to the show. In addition, riders will be invited to check helmets, jackets and other gear at the show’s main entrance to free their hands and enjoy the new show experience. The Southern California Motorcycle Show will be open to the public through Sunday, December 8th at the Long Beach Convention Center. Show hours are Saturday, from 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday, from 10:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission to the event is $15 adults $6 for children 6-11. Children 5 and under are admitted free. On Family Day, Sunday, December 8, all children 12 and under are free when accompanied by a paying adult. For more information, call 800-331-5706 or visit motorcycleshows.com.