A world-first bike launch saw eyes focus firmly on Sydney today as the 2011 Sydney Motorcycle & Scooter Show opened its doors to thousands of visitors.

Covers came off show-stopping bikes from a full range of motorcycle manufacturers, with many flown in from their release in Milan just a fortnight ago.

Dean Benstead’s 02 Pursuit, a university design project, was launched to crowds fascinated by its use of a chamber of compressed air, similar to a scuba tank, as an alternative energy source to fuel and electricity.

“It’s about what the bike represents; it’s not about performance engineering but about stretching my capabilities as a designer and imagining what the future might hold for sustainable motorcycle design,” said Benstead, a 21-year-old student.

“The years I spent as a child riding dirt bikes inspired this design, a motocross bike based around the Engineair engine.

“Developing the working prototype involved balancing many design elements to get the bike functional and show-ready, but also meet budget, functionality, tight timelines and skill requirements.”

The 02 Pursuit is just one of over 1000 motorcycles that fill the 15,000sqm floor space at the show, including many express freighted from their release in Milan just a fortnight ago.

Ducati’s brand new 1199 Panigale stole the sportsbike headlines, as did the unveiling of Suzuki’s 2012 model GSX-R1000 and Honda’s CBR1000RR.

Sydney’s inclement weather hasn’t deterred showgoers, who packed the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre in their thousands today.

The event closes at 8pm tonight and re-opens on Saturday and Sunday at 9am.

120 exhibitors are showcasing the latest bike products and accessories to suit riders of all ages.

A family-friendly show of freestyle motocross, street bike stunts and trials riding is included in ticket prices.

A number of special guests will visit the show throughout the weekend, including Suzuki’s triple Superbike champion Shawn Giles, BMW’s Superbike champion Glenn Allerton, Yamaha’s Supercross and motocross champion Jay Marmont, and off-road stars Toby Price and Ben Grabham.

Tickets (available pre-purchase at motorcycleshow.com.au or at the gate):
Adults: $20
Seniors: $14
Children (5-15 years): $14
Children (Under 5 years): Free
Family: (2 adults and 2 children) $48


Opening Hours:
Friday, 25 November 10.00am-8.00pm
Saturday, 26 November 9.00am-6.00pm
Sunday, 27 November 9.00am-5.00pm