Dirt Rider Expo: Nov26-30

Britain’s biggest dirt bike show begins today at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire.

If you’re considering trying the dirt or are intrigued by supermotos, the event, which runs until Sunday, November 30, is the best place to see all the new machines and kit, as well as some of the biggest names in the off-road world.

Yamaha’s two-wheel drive 2-Trac WR450F is making its UK debut as the star of the show (read our first test in MCN, December 3). Other bikes making their debut include CCM’s 404, (which was dubbed the best CCM ever in MCN road tests) Husqvarna’s new SM450R supermoto racer and Sherco’s 4.5I, the Spanish firm’s first fuel-injected enduro machine.

KTM will unveil the monster 660SMC supermoto as part of their 2004 range and GasGas will display its EC Enduros plus a 450cc quad never seen before in the UK. MCN’s long term off-road bikes will also be there, including Kawasaki’s new KX250F, Yamaha’s TT600 and KTM’s new 450SX.

It’s also your chance to see the brand new sport of mini-bike freestyle. British 125cc MX champion Stephen Sword will be up against stars including Carl Nunn on a purpose-built, scaled down supercross track. And trials star Steve Colley heads up a speed trials competition.

Plus the show is packed with over 110 stalls in a massive retail zone. Find bargains and kit from brands like Alpinestars, Fox, On Fire and Scott. And the best of the 2004 ranges will be modelled live by the sexy Dirt Rider Expo girls.

The MCN-backed Dirt Rider Expo takes place at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire from 10am-6pm Thursday November 27-Saturday November 29, and from 10am-5pm on Sunday November 30. Tickets are available in advance by calling 0870-730-0961. Adults cost £11.50, children (5-16) and OAPS are £5.50 and a £1 booking fee applies. These tickets give you express entry into the show.

On the door adults cost £12.50 and children (5-16)/OAPs cost £6.50. Under-5s are free. The live action arena costs £2 for each individual.

All vistors get a complimentary show guide and free on site parking as part of their entrance fee. Stoneleigh Park is just off the A46 south of Coventry. Watch out for the yellow AA ‘Dirt Rider Expo’ signs. The National Agriculture Centre (NAC) has recently been renamed Stoneleigh Park which means there’s a mixture of signs listing either of the names.

Are you planning a trip to the Dirt Rider Expo? Have you already got buys in mind? Talk to with other MCN off-road fans by posting on the Off Road message board. Follow the link on the right.