There's nothing like winter in the desert -- beautiful, clear sunny skies and mild temperatures make for beautiful riding conditions. Living in the southwestern portion of the country are hordes of motorcycle riders, along with some of the top motorcycle builders and parts manufacturers anywhere, all anchored in the greater Phoenix area. What could be better than taking the day and riding to the Arizona Motorcycle Expo? Once there, you and your buddies can spend the day checking out some of the coolest bikes, components, and accessories.
The three-day show, sponsored by Drag Specialties, Russ Brown, and Bourget's of Arizona, billed as the Southwest's largest motorcycle expo, took place December 12-14. In its final year at its current location, Phoenix's Civic Plaza, the expo drew a crowd in excess of 12,000, who gladly paid the $8 entry fee. This year's expo was so successful, that arrangements for next year's show have already been set for November 12-14, 2004 at its new location. The bigger and better version of the expo will take place at the Arizona State Fairgrounds, which will allow for more vendors, larger crowds, and free bike parking.
The list of vendors reads as a veritable who's who in the custom bike industry. Innovators and industry leaders, such as Paul Yaffe Originals, Jim Nasi Customs, Bourget's of Arizona, Chica Customs, Vegas City Choppers, Elite Customs, Titan Motorcycle, and Carefree Custom Cycles, were among many of the more than 100 exhibitors showing off their wares.
Although there were various types of motorcycles and ATVs on display at the expo, the vast majority were American V-twins, along with related components serving the Harley aftermarket. And if sand is your game, you could have wandered over to the other side of the Civic Plaza and checked out the latest sandrails and related toys on display at the Arizona Sand Expo -- all for the same eight bucks. For more information on next year's event, check out www.azmotorcycleexpo.com.