THERE are ambitious developments afoot at Classic Bike Shows and there’s no better example than the Carole Nash Great Scottish Bike Show. With a move to a new venue confirmed and star names such as Giacomo Agostini set to attend, the event is expected to make its mark in a big way this summer…

In an industry where growth has proved difficult in recent years, Classic Bike Shows, the organiser of some of the UK’s largest classic events, is bucking the trend with an expansion into Scotland’s premier events venue, the Royal Highland Centre near Edinburgh, for a weekend celebration of all that is best about motorcycling. A wealth of dealers, manufacturers and traders will come together under one roof on August 9-10 to offer visitors the chance to access the best and latest machines and motorcycle accessories.

Exhibition manager Nick Mowbray said: “Our move to a facility as impressive as the Royal Highland Centre signals our intention to make the Great Scottish Bike Show the most complete biking weekend in the north of Britain. We’re scaling new heights here at Classic Bike Shows with our ever-expanding portfolio and we look forward to proving what we here all know; motorcycling in the UK is very much alive and well.”

With much to attract enthusiasts across all makes, models and eras of motorcycling, one of motorcycle racing’s most successful names will add a touch of star quality to proceedings. Giacomo Agostini, the 15-times world champion, will be the event’s special guest of honour, talking with showgoers and presenting awards to the owners of the machines selected as the best on display.

With 122 career victories, Agostini holds the record for Grand Prix race wins with fellow Italian legend Valentino Rossi the only other man to have surpassed the 100 mark. Accompanying ‘Ago’ at the event will be Alex George, a three times Isle of Man TT race winner who’s sure to be popular in his native Scotland.

The action doesn’t just take place inside either, with stunt displays from the irreverent Purple Helmets alongside competitive racing in the form of Scottish Supermoto and Moped Mayhem.

Mowbray added: “We can’t wait to take a summer visit up to Edinburgh, and we’re especially jealous of those visitors who’ll be taking the opportunity to make the trip on their favourite ride. From parts, spares and accessories through to the chance to meet a racing hero and witness exhilarating live action, the Carole Nash Great Scottish Bike Show has something for every motorcycle enthusiast. And with all of that for a bargain £6 when you buy your ticket in advance… it’s a weekend not to be missed.”