As we in the United States stuff ourselves with turkey and overdose on football, the 78th edition of the biggest and most important motorcycle trade fair in the world is happening in Milan, Italy. The first EICMA event was held in 1914 and this year runs from Thursday, 25 November through Sunday, 28 November. Showrunners claim that it is the most visited event in the world based on exhibitors and attendees.
After having to cancel the event in 2020, organizers went ahead with it for 2021. Strict Covid protocols are in place to ensure the safety of everyone. Vaccinations and masking are required for all participants and visitors.
It is unfortunate that some of the big manufacturers, BMW, KTM and Ducati, for example, decided not to send any of their motorcycles or representatives. Ducati will be particularly missed due to its being an iconic Italian motorcycle manufacturer. All three of these bike builders have decided to market their new wares through online presentations. Ducati, for one, has released a series of videos, several weeks apart, introducing their latest models. I have seen them all and they are very informative and even entertaining.
As for the manufacturers who are there, many of the newest items are e bikes. Based on what I see on my local bicycle trails, e bikes have a future with all age groups. At first they were seen as bikes to keep people from aging out of the sport. But now I am seeing younger riders who may want to ride more challenging routes or using them to allow less hearty riders to keep up with stronger bikers.
Harley Davidson, the biggest American motorcycle maker, showed up with its electric motorcycle, the Livewire. At one time it was seen as the future of the marque, but new leadership returned the focus to Harley's bread and butter, the big touring bikes. Harley has put its Revolution Max motor in a model called the Sportster S, while still making the traditional air cooled Sportster lineup.
Adventure bikes continue to draw interest and even MV Agusta has come out with their version of an off road motorcycle. The Big Four Japanese manufacturers are there and the Suzuki Hayabusa's return is a highlight from the Land of the Rising Sun. All of the other major Italian bike builders appeared and are showing off their latest editions. Moto Guzzi will celebrate its 100th anniversary with introduction of its V100 Mandello, a new entry into the sport touring market.
Much more information can be found at the EICMA website, www.eicma.it. The motorcycle press is covering the show in great detail of course, so your favorite cycle website can help to keep you up to date.
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