With the cessation of the large-scale AMID motorcycle shows held at Kyalami, much to the disappointment of enthusiasts, it was feared that the motorcycle industry in SA would no longer have a collective public showcase, especially in light of falling sales and reduced revenue.
However, in 2024, AMID decided to start all over again, this time on a much smaller scale, and, if attendance figures are anything to go by, it has proven to be a hit with the public.
The first year, 2024, 1,600 visitors headed to Red Star Raceway to see a sprinkling of brands showing their wares. In 2025, that figure grew to 2,500, and now, with the 2026 edition of the show about to happen, all players are hoping for yet another jump in attendance, and, with the selection of brands committed to attending, it is certain that this will happen.
AMID is to be commended for realising that such a show would need three or four years to gain traction and, happily, it seems as if this is happening.
Taking place on the weekend of the 31st January and 1st February, visitors can expect to see all the major manufacturers:
BMW Motorrad, BRC Moto, Can-Am, CFMOTO, GASGAS, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Husqvarna, Kayo, Kymco, KTM, Kawasaki, Linhai, Polaris, Suzuki, Triumph, Yamaha,
and a new brand in South Africa for 2026—which we are excited for—QJMOTOR. Along with a representative selection of accessory and apparel dealers.
As in previous years, entrance is free, and the show runs from 08:30 to 16:00 on Saturday and 08:30 to 15:00 on Sunday. Sadly, it doesn’t seem as if on-track demo rides will be available – this was always a big attraction of the old Kyalami days – but who’s to say that it won’t happen in the future if attendance keeps rising and the demand justifies the expense for the manufacturers.
The motorcycle industry in SA definitely needs this showcase, so make an effort to get to Red Star Raceway on the last weekend of January to ensure that it continues into the future.
