Euro Moto 2013

Making a good thing bigger and better

In 2011, Jim Boltz and Garrett Johnson saw a distinct void of European manufacturers on the national motorcycle show circuit. As lovers of all motorcycles and with a passion for euro brands, they formed Mototainment and put together the first European motorcycle show ever to be held in the Pacific Northwest.

Above: BMW's F800GT. A sensible touring mount for someone who doesn't require a lot of power.

Euro Moto 2012 utilized the upstairs floor of the Lynnwood Convention Center and brought together a dozen bike manufacturers as well as a number of aftermarket accessory and apparel brands. By Sunday morning there was already talk about doubling the size of the event in 2013 and Mototainment had a hit on their hands.

That talk will now be reality March 2nd and 3rd when Euro Moto 2013 opens its doors, this time utilizing the entire Lynnwood Convention Center facility.

The upstairs and downstairs floors will feature bike brands and accessory makers in the main halls. Favorites like Triumph, Ducati, BMW, KTM, Aprilia and Moto Guzzi will all be on display as well as smaller brands including Sherco, GasGas, Husaberg and Husqvarna. There are rumors circulating about the North American debut of a new model from one of the above-mentioned manufacturers. That was tossed around last year and indeed Aprilia made that a reality presenting a new model Touno, so yes, we're holding our breath.

Above: Aprilia's 2012 Tuono RV4 in Sulit Yellow made its North American debut during Euro Moto 2012. 

The accessories vendors will go beyond just euro-specific brands and include brands that are most popular among riders of European bikes. Along with returning names like Touratech, Shuberth and AltRider, you can also be on the lookout for product displays by Klime, Gerbing, Bell, Avon, Cardo, Optimate and MotorX, to name a few.

Rain or shine, bring your riding gear because there will be demo rides leaving from the parking area each hour or so. Come ride an assortment of Aprilia, Moto Guzzi and Triumph models.

Where there was one seminar room last year, there will be four this year featuring continuous presentations lasting 20-60 minutes each.

Some years ago Honda developed a smart trainer; a simulator for motorcyclists. The device has moved ahead and Ride West BMW will have the latest version at their booth. Take a virtual ride and see how you stack up as a rider.

Sorely missing last year was a beer garden, but this year it's Smarty Pants to the rescue as they will operate a beer and wine concession throughout the event.

Above: The latest generation smart trainer. Come ride it!

Want your money back when it’s all said and done? Hold on to your ticket stub after the show as it will be redeemable for face value at a number of participating dealers during the month of March. Details about that will be provided once inside.

Mototainment is living up to its name, making a good thing bigger and better - see you at the show!

Get more details at their website: http://euromoto-northwest.com

SR!/Winter 2013