With current MX1 world motocross superstar, Tommy Searle, making an appearance on dirt day (Weds 27 November) alongside accomplished MX rider Chris “Stalker” Walker, fans were treated to not just the sight of historic machinery but also the chance to hear about the benefits of off-road riding in days gone by and now.

“People just don’t realise how cheap it is and how much fun can be had”, said Walker – an alumni of Kawasaki’s Team Green motocross programme - as he sat alongside another former Kawasaki youth rider, Tommy Searle.

“For not much money you can get an off-road bike and all you need is the kit and a trailer and you can go racing. You could get a bike and have a full season of racing for a fraction of the cost of being involved in something like Superstock….and have miles more fun!”

Tommy Searle endorsed the view commenting that his practice track is due to be completed very soon and he is as excited as ever to try the new jumps for the first time.

“I can’t describe it; the feeling when you hit a new jump for the first time ever, it’s a real thrill and something people of all skills levels can share as one of the great experiences in off-road riding”.

The five machines on display next to the Kawasaki race truck in hall three comprise three 125cc machines of various vintages from 1978 to 2008, a twin shock KX250 from 1979 plus the “Daddy of them all”, the fearsome KX500, a fire breathing monster from 2001 ridden at the recent Farleigh Castle MX Des Nations by Ryan Hunt.

“Motorcycle Live is visited by such a huge number of people interested in two wheel sport it was only natural for us to concentrate a large part of our efforts to highlight 40 years of KX here”, commented Kawasaki Marketing Manager, Mark Spiller.

“Chris, Tommy and our own Technical Manager, the former Grand Prix MX mechanic, Richard Metcalfe, kept the crowd laughing with their off road anecdotes. This combined with the reception for the display machines on the racing stand in Hall 3 has been a fitting highlight in our celebration activities.”