As we get closer to saying Good riddance to 2020, one has to wonder what the future holds for 2021 events, shows and rallys. We have spent a year of our events cancelled, rescheduled and many will be unable to survive due to COVID-19 and the shutdowns put in place.
Harley-Davidson U.S. sales have plunged in their 2nd and 3rd quarter of 2020. The steepest decline in the past 6 years. Yamaha sales are down 7.8% compared to 2019, and many dealerships are struggling to keep the doors open.
What does this mean for our industry?
International Motorcycle Shows have announced that they are taking your 39th year into a new chapter. They have announced yesterday, after 5-years in the making, Progressive® IMS Outdoors – a tour of immersive powersports events that connects your brand with riders and prospective riders of all ages that share a passion for riding 2 and 4-wheel vehicles or wish to learn. The events will offer a weekend full of interactive experiences to aid in buying decisions, exploration of new products and lifestyles, and hours of family-friendly fun.
These events will replace the long-standing series of indoor events that we have traditionally held November – February and will begin next Summer in 2021. The previously scheduled 2020-2021 indoor events have been canceled in light of concerns around COVID-19 and to pave the way for this new, exciting and groundbreaking series. We will announce the complete Tour Schedule and more details on December 4th. Until then, feel free to reach out to your Account Representative to get in on the “ground floor” of Progressive® IMS Outdoors.
Colorado Motorcycle Expo – Scott Schulz recently posted a survey to all of the Expo’s attendees and vendor updating them that as of right now, the 2021 Colorado Motorcycle Expo is a GO with certain changes to be in compliance with city, and county of Denver enforced by the Health Department.
The major changes will include:
- The number of attendees inside the building at one time will be limited to 700. This will increase to 1000 if we use more space on the lower level and 3rd floor. The good news is vendors and employees are not counted as attendees. Our plan is to stagger admission times with 2 hour blocks so the overall attendance is not significantly impacted.
- All food and beverage consumption will be confined to designated areas. This means people cannot walk around eating or drinking.
- Facial coverings will be required at all times with the exception of designated food and beverage areas.
- Isle sizes will increase and be designated for one way traffic only. Additionally, the spacing between vendors will be increased. Our plan is to spread the bike show out throughout the entire vendor areas in order to increase traffic throughout the expo and to fill the increased spaces between vendors.
- Plexiglas barriers will be required for all vendors where financial transactions take place. You can provide your own or the facility will rent these to you.
- A quick temperature scan will be included with daily vendor check in/screening.
- Proper social distancing will be expected and enforced with attendees.
- Concerts and entertainment are not allowed at the facility. Our plan is to have after hour parties that are relocated off-site for 2021.
Dayton Bike Week is scheduled for March 5-14, 2020.
Dubbed the “World’s Largest Motorcycle Event,” Daytona Bike Week is a 10-day event filled with high-octane street festivals, concerts, motorcycle races, bike shows, rallies, manufacturer showcases and much more. The event was established more than seven decades ago and has grown into a crowd of over 500,000 motorcyclists who make it an annual pilgrimage.
Whether you’re seeking custom bikes or just great camaraderie, Daytona Beach delivers an all-out experience in a legendary beach destination. While you’re here, check out all the amazing arts and culture opportunities, too!
Visit OfficialBikeWeek.com for more event information.
