An Afternoon at the Motorcycle Show
If I’m going to a trade show it’s typically something business-related. Recently my husband and I went to the International Motorcycle Show here in NYC because a friend of ours was exhibiting his custom built bike at the show. Brian’s hobby is building custom bikes that are great to ride and have the high-end look and feel of much more expensive bikes.
His goal is to become the go-to guy for great riding bikes that look high-end but cost less than comparable big-builder bikes. He has amassed 3 barns full of cycle parts and has established an online business selling them. Brian is a true entrepreneur with good marketing savvy.
I couldn’t resist sitting on his bike. It was a beauty and has won awards at smaller shows. The only time I ever rode a motorcycle I was a passenger and I remember burning my leg on the exhaust. But it was a fun ride.
Walking the rest of the show revealed a very wide range of options for bikers, with prices ranging from less than $10,000 to over $50,000, at least what I saw. Bikers and would-be bikers of all ages were kicking the tires and trying the seat. Pre-teens and seniors alike were enjoying jumping on and off everything in the showroom. As would be expected, there were lots of riding and biking “accessories” on exhibit as well.
Here’s one of the exotic bikes we saw.
While I didn’t go to the show for business, I did meet a few people who were clearly in need of some marketing help. I left my card and will follow-up.
What I didn’t see was a company that offered bikes for rent, in the same way you can rent or lease a car. Seems like that would be a good option for those who don’t want to make the investment in a bike, but want to ride now and then. That’s an especially attractive option in this economy. Sooner or later someone will latch onto the idea.
For help with branding, revenue generating strategies or just helping you make a critical business decision, I’m always eager to support and guide you. Be in touch anytime.
