ORLANDO, Fla. – The excitement and anticipation surrounding the 2014 American International Motorcycle Expo (AIMExpo) continued to build today by surpassing the landmark 500-exhibitor mark heading into the opening day of the October 16-19 show. Port Orange-based custom motorcycle chain maker Insane Chains became the 500th exhibitor and was one of several companies to sign up in person to be a participant at AIMExpo inside the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC).
The milestone achievement for AIMExpo is the latest highlight in what has been an exceptional year of growth since the inaugural event one year ago. The support from the greater powersports industry has resulted in a 40-percent increase in pre-event dealer registration and the addition of more than 100 new exhibitors that translates to a 50-percent larger floor space inside the OCCC. The expansion is highlighted by the inclusion of eight original equipment manufacturers (OEM), each of who will provide global and North American debuts at the show.
“It has been a memorable year since AIMExpo became a reality last October and it’s incredible to see how far the event has come as we head into the second show,” said Larry Little, Vice President and General Manager of the Marketplace Events Motorcycle Group. “We have made it a point to give the industry an effective and efficient platform to improve the business of motorcycling, something it never had before, and following the success of the inaugural event we have seen an outpouring of support from more exhibitors, dealers and manufacturers. As a result, we have a physically larger show with even more products to introduce to the North American marketplace.”
AIMExpo’s newest OEM participants – Ducati, Kawasaki and Zero Motorcycles – are each making their presence felt with some of the most anticipated announcements coming out of the event by introducing exciting new 2015 models. Additionally, returning manufacturers Erik Buell Racing, KYMCO, Massimo, Yamaha and Suzuki are doing the same, making AIMExpo home to the most significant new model announcements for the upcoming year.
Another new addition attendees can look forward to in 2014 is the inclusion of Orlando Harley-Davidson on the exhibitor floor, showcasing the latest models from the iconic brand. After checking out the 2015 lineup, attendees can head to AIMExpo Outdoors! and put them to the test at the Harley-Davidson Demo Fleet. The dedicated outdoor space of AIMExpo is the only one of its kind at a North American powersports trade show and will feature the opportunity to test both on and off-road products from participating manufacturers.
Road racing legend Kevin Schwantz and television personality Cristy Lee will help kick off the 2014 AIMExpo on Thursday morning. Schwantz, the 1993 500cc World Champion, has been recognized for his on-track achievements and contributions to motorcycling by being named AIMExpo Champion while Lee is the event’s official spokesperson and is best known for her co-hosting role on Velocity Network’s All Girls Garage. The duo will make special appearances, take part in meet and greets, autograph sessions and be active participants in all festivities surrounding AIMExpo. Additionally, actor and enthusiast Perry King will be on hand as well, serving as the emcee of the AMA Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Friday night.
The innovative and groundbreaking platform of AIMExpo brings the trade, media and consumer segments of the greater powersports marketplace together under one roof, at one time, in a grand celebration of motorcycling in North America. The largest gathering of aftermarket companies in the country will showcase the latest products coming to the marketplace at the 2014 AIMExpo. The show commences on Thursday, October 16, at 10 a.m. ET with a pair of trade days before opening up to consumers on Saturday, October 18, at 9 a.m. ET.
Stay tuned to the AIMExpoUSA.com website and download the AIMExpo mobile app to keep up to date with the news and activities at the show. Additionally, be sure to visit AIMExpo’s social media pages. “Like” the American International Motorcycle Expo on Facebook by visiting the AIMExpo page, and “Follow” on Twitter:@AIMExpo. To receive monthly updates from AIMExpo about new features, free giveaways, interactive opportunities and new product developments, click here to subscribe to our monthly newsletter.
