The 2018 AutoTrader South Africa Bike Festival powered by Discovery Channel took over the historic Kyalami Gand Prix Circuit from 25 to 27 May. Motorcycle fans in their thousands attended the festival to experience the massive variety on offer.
Festival goers had the opportunity to view, test, ride and buy from some of the biggest manufacturers in the industry that were exhibiting and showcasing their vast array of bikes and accessories. A number of other spectacles on offer made for a day out well spent.
The likes of KTM, Husqvarna, Yamaha, Honda, Suzuki, Indian Motorcycle, Zontes, Ducati, Harley Davidson and more featured their best of the best, not only for viewing pleasure but for circuit test rides as well. Kyalami was alive with the sounds of motorcycles all weekend long – a sight and sound we just can’t get enough of.
The fourth round of the 2018 SuperGP Champions Trophy was a highlight to see on track during the weekend. Despite crashing his bike in the final race of the weekend, Clint Seller remounted to finish in 4th place and take the overall for the weekend ahead of Michael White and Morne Geldenhuis.
In the Super600 class it was Blaze Baker who dominated the field to take the weekend’s win.
As the sun set over the Kyalami Circuit, Monster Energy took to the main straight (on Friday and Saturday night) for their Flight Night Freestyle Motocross demos. Riders Scotty Billett, Dallan Goldman, Alastair Sayer and Australia’s Brayden Davies showcased their high flying stunts while fireworks and pyrotechnics lit up the night sky.
Stunt riding had the masses in awe throughout the weekend. The Le Riche brothers made good use of the paddock parking area to setup their impressive Trials Bike obstacle course and, as always, put on an entertaining performance that had the crowds screaming for more.
Stunt & Wheelie Champion, France’s Julien Welsch was back by popular demand, and for good reason. His skills on a bike are unbelievable and a sight that has to be witnessed n the flesh.
Other festival highlights included the Monster Energy and Stoos Customs Harley Davidson bike build and giveaway. Brad Binder’s Moto2 factory KTM racing machine on display at the KTM pit garage. Meeting the Indian Motorcycle Vixens in the flesh. RocoMamas Custom, Retro, Classic and Vintage championship, and the Sunday RAMBO Blanket charity Run.
In between all this action there was an abundance of food stalls, a beer garden and a selection of local bands performing for all to enjoy. All in all, another brilliant weekend put on by SA’s premier motorcycle, music and lifestyle festival.
Photos by Rich Sutherland and Eric Palmer.