South Africa’s motorcycle expos in 2025 promise diverse experiences for bikers and enthusiasts alike. From free-entry events showcasing the latest models to thrilling freestyle motocross competitions, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a quick look at the standout events:
- Red Star Raceway Motorcycle Expo (Jan 25–26): Free admission, major brand launches (Honda, BMW, Yamaha), and rider safety sessions.
- TrackFest by BMW Motorrad (Canceled): Originally planned for Aug 9–10 with test rides and family-friendly attractions, but it was canceled.
- King of the Whip (Nov 29): Freestyle motocross competition in Johannesburg featuring top local and international talent.
- Mpumalanga Regional Events: Dual-sport festivals and adventure gatherings throughout the year.
- 1,000 Bike Show (Sept 5–7): Classic motorcycle showcase at Greenstone Shopping Centre.
These events cater to a variety of interests, from vintage enthusiasts to adrenaline seekers. Whether you’re into test rides, safety training, or stunning stunts, 2025’s lineup has it covered.
Quick Comparison:
| Event | Date | Entry Cost | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red Star Raceway Expo | Jan 25–26 | Free | Brand launches, safety sessions |
| TrackFest (BMW Motorrad) | Canceled | N/A | Planned test rides, family activities |
| King of the Whip | Nov 29 | R300 (~$16.50) | Freestyle motocross, international riders |
| Mpumalanga Regional Events | Various | Varies | Dual-sport festivals, adventure rides |
| 1,000 Bike Show | Sept 5–7 | TBD via Quicket | Classic motorcycle showcase |
Mark your calendar and plan ahead for an unforgettable year of motorcycle events!
South Africa Motorcycle Expos 2025 Comparison Guide
South Africa’s Amid Motorcycle show 2025
1. Red Star Raceway Motorcycle Expo, Delmas
The 2025 AMID Motorcycle Expo made its way back to Red Star Raceway in Delmas, South Africa, on January 25–26, 2025. Running from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Saturday and wrapping up at 3:00 PM on Sunday, the event welcomed visitors with free admission. It was a perfect mix of exciting model launches and hands-on safety sessions.
This year’s lineup featured some of the biggest names in the industry. Honda unveiled the CB1000 Hornet SP, BMW Sandton showcased the R 1300 GS Adventure, and Yamaha introduced the XSR 900 GP. Emerging brands also made their mark, with CF Moto presenting the MT 450 and Kayo bringing their latest offerings.
One of the standout attractions was the Suzuki Rider Safety Day, designed for riders of all experience levels. Participants had the chance to sharpen their skills on a controlled track. Beginners could get a feel for the basics on a "rolling road" using a Gixxer 250 or test out scooters in a safe, guided environment. Meanwhile, the South African Motorcycle Racing Academy (SAMRA) brought the thrill of racing to life with 8-lap demo races. These races featured young riders, aged 6 to 14, competing on a fleet of 58 Honda NSF 100 motorcycles – a program that has been nurturing youth talent for 16 years.
The expo wasn’t just about bikes. Gear vendors displayed helmets and riding apparel from leading brands, alongside professional maintenance services to keep riders road-ready.
"The Suzuki Rider Safety Day allows riders of any skill level to come and improve their skills in the safe and controlled environment of the track."
– Brian Cheyne, Freelance Motorcycle Journalist, ZA Bikers
2. TrackFest Powered by BMW Motorrad, Red Star Raceway
TrackFest 2025 was planned to take place on August 9–10, 2025, at Red Star Raceway in Delmas, running daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Unfortunately, BMW Group South Africa announced on July 11, 2025, that the event would not go ahead.
The festival was set to be a standout occasion for the motorcycle community, designed to go beyond BMW ownership and invite riders of all brands to join. BMW Motorrad envisioned a dynamic event that combined test rides of their latest models with a variety of lifestyle attractions. These included a Rider Gear and Lifestyle section, gourmet food trucks, an entertainment zone for all ages, and live performances by popular local artists like Rubber Duc and Majozi. However, this ambitious plan never came to life due to the cancellation.
Even though the event didn’t happen, the concept showcased BMW Motorrad’s commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive space for riders of all skill levels and motorcycle brands.
3. King of the Whip Freestyle Motocross Event, Johannesburg
On November 29, 2025, Montecasino in Fourways, Johannesburg, came alive with the King of the Whip freestyle motocross event. Running from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM, the event attracted thousands of fans eager to watch 30 riders – 21 local talents and 9 international stars from countries like the US, Australia, Belgium, Japan, Spain, France, and Uganda – battle it out for glory.
The competition featured two main categories: Best Whip and FMX Best Trick, which included both standard and inverted tricks. Riders were judged on their style, amplitude, and trick variation. American rider Wyatt Fontenot emerged victorious, claiming the overall title. Meanwhile, Pat Bowden from Australia dominated the Best Trick categories with jaw-dropping stunts like the Christ Air Stage Dive and the Rowedova Backflip to one-hander lander. Adding to the event’s milestones, Vicki Golden from the USA made history as the first female competitor.
Volkswagen Amarok headlined as the title sponsor, joined by big names like Monster Energy, Yamaha, Garmin, Motul, GoPro, Fox Racing, and PlayTSOGO. Fans were treated to premium experiences, including the Monster Energy VVIP Sky Deck, which offered unparalleled views of the action. Attendees could also participate in a Pit Walk at 2:30 PM to meet the riders, while VIP and VVIP ticket holders enjoyed early access at 1:00 PM for exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities.
"I can confidently say that King of the Whip has grown into one of the world’s premier freestyle motocross events."
– Ryan van der Spuy, Event Organiser
The finals were an unforgettable spectacle, taking place under the night sky with dazzling pyrotechnics and a Monster Energy Rig Riot – a laser and light show that transformed Montecasino’s iconic façade. Tickets started at R300 (around $16.50), with options ranging from General Standing to the luxurious VVIP Monster Energy Sky Deck. The event boasted a prize pool of R250,000 (approximately $13,750).
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4. Regional Motorcycle and Dual-Sport Festivals in Mpumalanga
Mpumalanga has cemented its reputation as a hotspot for motorcycle enthusiasts in South Africa, with Red Star Raceway in Delmas hosting a lineup of festivals throughout 2025. Beyond these major expos, the region also brings dual-sport festivals into the mix, offering a well-rounded experience for riders.
These regional events go beyond just showcasing bikes. They feature exclusive product displays and interactive track sessions, creating a dynamic environment for attendees. From thrilling bike launches to hands-on rider experiences, these festivals cater to a wide spectrum of motorcycle fans.
For adventure seekers, BMW Motorrad has planned several weekend events across Mpumalanga in 2025. Highlights include the "One Night, Limitless Adventure" event in Amersfoort on July 26–27, and the larger "Community, Adventure" weekend scheduled for October 24–26. These gatherings promise a mix of camaraderie and exploration, making them a must-attend for dual-sport enthusiasts.
Adding to the excitement, accessory importers will display the latest in riding gear. HJC helmets, along with other brands, will showcase protective equipment, apparel, and technical accessories. As RideFast noted, "The Accessory and clothing importers are going to be out in force on the day.".
To top it off, additional track sessions are planned throughout the year, ensuring that riders of all motorcycle brands have plenty of opportunities to hit the track and immerse themselves in Mpumalanga’s vibrant motorcycle scene.
5. New Local Motorcycle Events in 2025
The year 2025 brought a variety of exciting, localized motorcycle events that added new dimensions to South Africa’s biking scene.
The 1,000 Bike Show made its comeback from September 5–7 at the Greenstone Shopping Centre’s underground parking area. Known for being South Africa’s largest classic bike showcase, this year’s event expanded its Thumper Concours competition. This contest focuses on single-cylinder, air-cooled motorcycles over 400cc, manufactured between 1970 and 2000. Event organizer Lawrence Atkinson expected 25–30 entries, a slight increase from 23 in 2024. Among the highlights was a rare 1980 Yamaha XT500, which had impressively covered 140,000 kilometers, including journeys across South America and from Europe to Johannesburg.
In the North West Province, the Potch Motorcycle Expo took place on June 16 at the Christa Galli Venue in Potchefstroom. This event blended classic and modern motorcycles with live music and food stalls, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Admission was budget-friendly at R30 per person (around $1.65), R10 (approximately $0.55) for children under 13, and free for motorcyclists who parked inside. Past expos have featured an impressive variety of bikes, from brand-new models to vintage machines nearly 90 years old.
Gear vendors also played a significant role in these events, with prominent importers like Bikewise (offering Arai helmets), Motul, AXOR, HJC, Mass Sports Leathers, Givi, and Oxford setting up shop. Some vendors even provided specialized services, such as professional helmet cleaning and maintenance, adding a practical touch to the festivities.
These local gatherings showcased not just motorcycles but also the vibrant community and culture that surrounds them.
Event Comparison Table
Here’s a quick breakdown of the standout features for each expo. Use this table to compare entry fees, track access, brand variety, and family-friendly offerings as you map out your 2025 plans.
The Red Star Raceway Motorcycle Expo is completely free and showcases over 10 major brands, including Honda, Suzuki, KTM, GasGas, Husqvarna, Kawasaki, Yamaha, CFMOTO, Kayo, and BMW Sandton. Highlights include the Suzuki Safety Day and accessory vendors like HJC helmets, though there’s no track access available.
TrackFest Powered by BMW Motorrad is all about the track experience. General admission is R350 (about $19), while the Track Rider Pass costs R1,500 (around $82) and requires a valid rider’s license. Kids under 12 can enter free of charge.
The 1,000 Bike Show is a celebration of vintage motorcycles, focusing on models that are 25 years or older. Tickets are sold on Quicket, but pricing for 2025 hasn’t been announced yet.
At the Potch Motorcycle Expo, happening on June 16, entry is budget-friendly at R30 ($1.65) per person, with a discounted rate of R10 ($0.55) for kids under 13. Motorcyclists parking inside can attend for free.
| Event | Entry Cost | Track Access | Number of Brands | Family Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red Star Raceway Motorcycle Expo | Free | No | 10+ major brands | Suzuki Safety Day, food vendors |
| TrackFest (BMW Motorrad) | R350 general / R1,500 track rider (~$19/$82) | Yes (demo rides, track sessions) | Focus on BMW Motorrad | Free entry for kids under 12 |
| 1,000 Bike Show | Via Quicket (price not specified) | No (static display/concours) | Classic motorcycles (25+ years) | Details vary by event |
| Potch Motorcycle Expo | R30 (~$1.65), R10 for kids (~$0.55) | No | Not specified | Details vary by event |
| Regional Mpumalanga Events | Details vary by event | Details vary by event | Local/regional focus | Details vary by event |
Conclusion
South Africa’s 2025 motorcycle expo lineup has something for every type of rider. Whether you’re drawn to the free-entry excitement at the Red Star Raceway Expo, the adrenaline-filled track sessions at BMW Motorrad’s TrackFest, or the nostalgia of vintage bikes at the 1,000 Bike Show, there’s an event to match your passion.
Beyond the bike displays, the calendar offers a variety of experiences. The King of the Whip brings heart-pounding freestyle motocross action to Johannesburg, while regional events in Mpumalanga provide adventure and dual-sport riders the chance to explore breathtaking routes. From the Suzuki Rider Safety Day to youth racing showcases hosted by SAMRA, these expos combine education, entertainment, and hands-on activities. You’ll also find exclusive product unveilings and interactive track experiences to keep the excitement going.
Make sure to double-check event details, including operating hours and ticket information, as these can vary. For instance, tickets for the 1,000 Bike Show can be purchased through Quicket. Planning ahead ensures you won’t miss any of these incredible events.
Stay informed with the latest updates on motorcycle expos, travel tips, and automotive news by visiting ImotoNews South Africa at imotonews.co.za. For specific event inquiries or real-time coverage, connect via WhatsApp.
Mark your calendars and gear up for an unforgettable 2025 motorcycle season!
FAQs
Why was the 2025 BMW Motorrad TrackFest canceled?
It’s unclear why the 2025 BMW Motorrad TrackFest was canceled, as no official explanation has been provided. The event had generated considerable anticipation among enthusiasts, but for now, the reason remains a mystery. Keep an eye out for updates from BMW Motorrad regarding any announcements or future plans.
What can you look forward to at the King of the Whip event?
Get ready for an evening of pure excitement at Montecasino, where freestyle motocross stunts will take center stage, showcasing both South Africa’s finest riders and international stars. The event’s main attractions? The thrilling Best Whip and Best Trick contests, where competitors will go head-to-head for an impressive grand prize of $13,000 (R250,000).
Arrive early to make the most of the experience – enjoy exclusive meet-and-greets with the riders and take advantage of VIP perks like premium grandstand seating, drink vouchers, and access to a private bar. As the night unfolds, prepare for a jaw-dropping show filled with big-air tricks, dazzling pyrotechnics, and an atmosphere buzzing with energy. Whether you’re a die-hard motocross enthusiast or just looking for a high-octane evening out, this event promises to deliver an unforgettable experience!
Is there an entry fee for the Red Star Raceway Motorcycle Expo in January 2025?
At the moment, details about entry fees for the Red Star Raceway Motorcycle Expo, scheduled for January 25-26, 2025, haven’t been released. For the most accurate information, consider reaching out to the event organizers or checking closer to the event date for updates.
