Bayliss Vermuelen and Whincup team up

A host of motorcycle identities will be appearing at the Gold Coast Motorcycle Expo.

Special guests at the Australian Motorcycle Expo will include Troy Bayliss, Chris Vermuelen, and V8 Supercar racer and keen dirt biker, Jamie Whincup.

Troy Bayliss

Three-time World Superbike Champion Troy Bayliss will be a special guest at the inaugural Australian Motorcycle Expo Gold Coast from February 20-22. One of the modern era’s most dominant road racers, the celebrated Australian talent recently announced his retirement from the 1000cc class where he recorded an incredible 52 victories, including a perfect double win at his last ever round.

Bayliss will be on hand to meet with fans and sign autographs in his first public appearance at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Chris Vermeulen

Suzuki  MotoGP star Chris Vermeulen   – winner of the 2007 French Grand Prix, multiple GP podium finisher and former World Supersport champion – will be on hand to meet with visitors on opening day, Friday February 20. Vermeulen will appear at the Suzuki exhibit from 6.00pm-6.45pm, signing autographs and posing for photos with fans.

The 26-year-old was a special guest at the Melbourne event in 2007, where his personable and down-to-earth approach proved a massive hit with all ages. Australian Motorcycle Expo Event Manager Mark Petersen was excited to welcome Vermeulen to the first ever Gold Coast event. "We’re thrilled to confirm Chris Vermeulen’s appearance at the Australian Motorcycle Expo Gold Coast," said Petersen. "He is one of the world’s most talented and talked about racers and an incredible ambassador for the sport." "Chris’ approachable attitude and willingness to spend time with his fans is admirable – we’re sure that Gold Coast visitors will enjoy getting to know him.".

Other special guests at the event will include motocross and supercross star Matt Moss (Suzuki), road racer Robbie Bugden (Suzuki) and the world’s top two freestyle PWC stars, Ross Champion and Pierre Maixent.

Jamie Whincup

V8 Supercar Champion Jamie Whincup will his indulge his passion for two wheels when he visits the inaugural Australian Motorcycle Expo Gold Coast on Saturday February 21. The Gold Coast-based 26-year-old is a keen dirt bike enthusiast and relishes the chance to hit well-worn trails in the hinterland when his busy schedule allows. The three-time Bathurst 1000 winner now utilises his dirt bike as a key part of his fitness training routine. A long-time KTM rider, he will be presented with a brand new 2009 450 EXC on the QBE Stage at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre at midday (12pm) on Saturday.

He will then be available to meet with fans to sign autographs, pose for photos and chat about his passion for dirt bike riding. Whincup said he was looking forward to catching up with local fans and talking two wheels.

"I’m looking forward to being a part of the event, I’ve always loved motorcycles and I’ve ridden KTM dirt bikes for a number of years," said Whincup. "Fitness is a big part of motorsport so I take any chance I can get to hit the dirt and raise the heart rate – its also a great way to keep my reflexes sharp. "Come on down and say hello, check out my new 450 EXC plus all the other awesome bikes on display!"

In its first year the Gold Coast event is shaping up to be jam-packed full of features. As well as a host of celebrity appearances, visitors can also check out the very latest motorcycle, scooter, ATV and PWC models to hit the market, plus custom choppers and a range of  demonstrations from top FMX, mini bike, trials and freestyle PWC riders.

Tickets to the Australian Motorcycle Expo, Australian Scooter Festival and Australian Personal WaterCraft Show are inclusive of all event features and shows. Children and seniors are just $13, adults are $17 and the family pass offers exceptional value at just $44 (2 adults and a 2 children). Doors to the event open at 10.00am each day, Friday February 20 through to Sunday February 22. For further event information, visit www.australianmotorcycleexpo.com.au.