The Progressive International Motorcycle Show (IMS) tours the nation providing motorcycle enthusiasts the opportunity to engage in a fun filled experience. Riders, both young and old are given the chance to get acquainted with a wide variety of street bikes, cruisers, dirt bikes, ATVs and everything else motorcycle related your heart could possibly desire.
The Washington Convention Center served as the host for the IMS’s annual mid-Atlantic destination with the latest gear, aftermarket accessories, entertainers, seminars and most important of all, motorcycles from all major manufacturers making for great incentives to brave the winter elements and DC parking.
Manufacturers were on hand to give riders a chance to check out their new products as well as answer any questions from the thousands of attendees on hand. J&P Cycles presented the Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show with strong representation by Garwood Custom Cycles, who dare I say owned the custom bike show. It says a lot when a highly respected industry icon such as Garwood Custom Cycles joins the touring IMS showing off their products and expanding their brand further. The Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show isn’t limited to industry pros. Amateur builders and everyday riders show up and show out with their own magnificent machines. It’s like a grown-up candy store full of creative goodies full of café racers, sportbikes, cruisers, and baggers.
What about the motorcycle stunt fans you ask? Fear not, stunt fans were treated to an exhilarating exhibition from the XDL Street Jam team gracing the event. There was no shortage of wheelies, stoppies and burnouts sending the crowd into wild overdrive. As evidenced by the large crowd and energetic reactions, the stunt world is surely resurging thanks in part to those such as the XDL Street Jam, Aaron White, BRZN, and DaneBritt.
As much as the 2014 IMS has to offer, noticeably missing were components from previous years such as the grand MOTO GP section, the Pit Stop Challenge, and the always fun Strider Adventure Zone for the kiddies. As I made my rounds throughout the show, I couldn’t help comparing the experience to a dealership. I can only hope the 2015-2016 IMS tour brings back the interactive features creating an atmosphere that engaged and allowed attendees to experience what we’ve all come to expect and enjoy about the IMS.
