AutoTrader partners with SA’s biggest bike festival

By Farzana Chaumoo

In support of motorcycle growth in South Africa, AutoTrader has stepped on board as the title sponsor to the South Africa Bike Festival. This will be the third year the show is running.

The AutoTrader South Africa Bike Festival will also host an industry-first conference. This will cover many of the challenges and opportunities facing the growing market.

AutoTrader’s motorcycle portal has recorded over 1,7 million visits in the past year, making it the most-visited motorcycle related publication in the country. Aside from this, eNaTIS data recorded over 11,7 million licensed vehicles on South African roads in October 2017. From that figure, 3% (357 743) of these were recorded as being motorcycles, motor tricycles or quadricycles. 

AutoTrader CEO George Mienie said, “We are delighted to be involved with an event of this nature and scale, which we believe will provide further growth to the industry and to our bikes platform. We are seeing the sector change from a hobbyist-dominated pursuit to a serious focus on viable transport solutions, particularly in our South African environment where traffic congestion continues to rise.”

Lachlan Harris, Director of AMID (Association of Motorcycle Importers & Distributors) will be working with Clarion Events and AutoTrader to improve awareness of motorcycling in SA and grow industry opportunities. “Some of the biggest challenges to the growth of the industry are perceptions around the cost and safety of motorcycling” said Harris. “The truth is, with essential rider training, the right protective rider gear and the choice of a suitable model, motorcycles can provide independence and mobility to many communities.” In their efforts to make biking more affordable in SA, manufacturers have been and will be launching a variety of mid-range 300-500cc bikes between 2017/2018.

The premiere motorcycle trade event will run for a third consecutive year at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit between 25-27 May 2018. The event blends exhibitions with the newest biking trends and appearances from the world’s top brands with racing, parades, and the best of biking lifestyle. The three-day festival incorporates dealers, riders and enthusiasts from all around the country.