Kapiti bike festival aims to keep riders Shiny Side Up

Media Release

Wellington region
21 February 2018

Kapiti bike festival aims to keep riders Shiny Side Up

Motorcyclists from around the Wellington region will have a chance to gain riding skills and hear from international experts when the “Shiny Side Up” motorbike festival hits the Kapiti Coast on Sunday.

Named after a global saying that means taking care and staying safe, “Shiny Side Up” is a joint initiative between ACC’s Ride Forever safety programme and the NZ Transport Agency which has grown into a nationwide Big Day Out for motorcycle enthusiasts since it was first held in 2016.

Shiny Side Up’s Kapiti festival includes presentations from well-known motorcycling personalities; riding skills displays; mechanic workshops, and stunt demonstrations. There will be lots to enjoy but the day will have a strong underlying safety message, says ACC’s Motorcycle Programme Manager Dave Keilty.

“Fourteen motorcyclists – including two pillions – have already lost their lives this year, which shows how critical it is that riders heed safety messages, and events like Shiny Side Up are a way to get those messages across,” says Dave Keilty.
“We want people to enjoy themselves, but to leave the event better riders than when they arrived.”

Among the highlights will also be a workshop with US-based suspension expert Dave Moss, who has an avid YouTube following across the world, and presentations from Kevin Williams of UK motorcycle organisation Survival Skills; riding gear expert Brittany Morrow, and Grand Prix road racing legend Randy Mamola.

“It’s a real coup to have Kevin Williams here,” says Dave Keilty. “His understanding of the psychology of being seen, and why motorcyclists are often overlooked, is hugely respected by riders worldwide. I know a lot of people are eager to hear him speak.

”Hopefully hearing from experts like Kevin, and just checking out Shiny Side Up, will motivate some riders to sign up for a Ride Forever course; it’s a great way to gain the skills and knowledge so you are able to make better choices out on the road.

“We also offer an advanced rider coaching programme, the only one of its kind that’s nationally available, and its heavily subsidized for those taking part.”

Shiny Side Up starts at 10.00am at Southwards Car Museum, Paraparaumu and runs until around 4.00pm. For more details go to shinysideup.co.nz

ENDS

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