THE COMMUNITY IS GROWING! ALMOST 19% MORE RIDERS WILL BE TRAVELLING QUEBEC ROADS THIS SUMMER
Montreal, February 18, 2019 – The passion for motorbikes is as strong as ever. Following the implementation of new Highway Safety Code rules last year, the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec has seen an increase of nearly 19 per cent in the number of learners’ licences (Class 6A) issued. Over a five-year period, this represents a 6.6 per cent increase in learners’ licences. Several thousand new bike enthusiasts are already looking forward to heading out for adventure as soon as the weather improves. For these new and seasoned riders, the Montreal Motorcycle Show, presented by La Capitale General Insurance, is the perfect opportunity to plan and prepare for an exciting and safe season.
“This is great news for all riders. Interest in the sport is growing and this will drive the industry to keep innovating in terms of safety, comfort and pleasure,” explained Bianca Kennedy, Manager of the Montreal Motorcycle Show.
The Quebec government used to require learners to be accompanied by experienced riders on their own bikes. According to Stéphane Guertin, Marketing Manager for Tecnic, the rule change should have a positive impact on road safety. “In fact, some were ignoring the rule. Others waited until the 11-month learning phase was over, which meant they delayed applying all the knowledge and skills acquired during the driving course. Now this knowledge will be fresh in their memories and can be more readily applied, allowing new riders to rapidly gain experience.
“We’ve noticed a more diverse clientele in our schools across the province,” said Mr. Guertin. “People who register more spontaneously and an increase in the number of women and young people. It’s hard to evaluate the recent data, but it will be interesting to see how the market changes in the short to medium term.”
The season revs up at the Motorcycle Show
Here are the attractions you won’t want to miss:
A demonstration unit will allow visitors to test Honda’s flagship Gold Wing, which offers a seven-speed DCT transmission and the ultimate in motorcycle luxury. The unit has been specially designed to highlight the benefits and ease of using Honda’s advanced dual clutch transmission. Whether you shift manually with the handlebar buttons or use the fully automatic mode, the DCT offers the efficiency of a manual gearbox with the advantage of smooth gear shifting performance (up and down). This will be the perfect opportunity to try it out!
The Show is also bringing back several always popular attractions, including the She Rides night on Friday, February 22. In addition to ½ price admission for women after 5 pm, ladies also have a chance to win a Kawasaki Versys-X 300. The Yamaha Riding Academy is always a hit with kids 6 to 12 years old, and all ages will enjoy the Trials Demos featuring four-time Canadian trials champion Jordan Szoke and his family. Be sure to stop by Hangar 17, produced in collaboration with ONELAND. Even larger and more varied this year, it brings together motorcycle builders, artists and riders who share a passion for everything two-wheels and the open road.
All the major brands, new products, destinations, accessories and innovative technology under one roof. Be there!
February 22 to 24, at the Palais des congrès de Montréal (1001 Place Jean-Paul-Riopelle)
Friday, February 22: noon to 10 p.m.
Saturday, February 23: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Sunday, February 24: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission (taxes included)
Adults (15 and over): $16.50
Seniors (65 and over) and students (upon presentation of a valid student card): $13.50
Juniors (6-14): $11
Children (under 6): Free when accompanied by an adult
Family pass (two adults and two juniors): $40
Friday after 5 p.m. (women only): $8.25
Buy your tickets at a dealership and save $3 per ticket (adult admission only).
Information: montrealmotorcycleshow.ca
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Media relations
Julie Gagnon, 514-713-4381 – julie@juliegagnon.ca
Isabelle Fafard, 514-865-8157 – isabelle.fafard@180deux.ca