PANAJI
Goa’s coastal roads echoed with the thunder of engines over the weekend with Royal Enfield's 'Motoverse', formerly 'Rider Mania' drawing hundreds of riders, enthusiasts and global brands at Vagator. The scene is set to replicate as two more big-ticket biking events are slated to be hosted in the State over the next few weeks.
After Royal Enfield’s Motoverse concluded on Sunday, the biking scene in Goa will be lit up with TVS’s MotoSoul on December 5 and 6 and the iconic India Bike Week slated for December 19-20 and is expected to draw thousands of enthusiasts pushing Goa's case to become India’s motorcycling capital.
Formerly known as 'Rider Mania' the Royal Enfield Motoverse has arguably become one of the largest gatherings of motorcyclists in Asia. It was held in Vagator, combining adventure rides, custom bike showcases, music concerts, and workshops.
This year’s edition spread over Friday, Saturday and Sunday saw participation from riders across India and abroad, with Royal Enfield unveiling new models and accessories.
The event this year, perhaps owing to past criticism, emphasized sustainability, with eco-friendly camping zones and initiatives to reduce plastic use.
Another two-wheeler company 'TVS Motors' meanwhile has lined up its own event -- MotoSoul festival -- for the first week of December. It is designed to bring together the community of riders and racing fans and will be hosted in Benaulim, featuring stunt shows, drag races, and interactive sessions with professional racers.
Last but not the least, the grandest of them all -- India Bike Week (IBW) -- will be celebrating its 10th anniversary this year and the event is tentatively fixed for December 19-20.
Touted the 'Woodstock of Biking' it attracts international brands, custom builders, and biking clubs from across the globe.
This year's edition sources said, will feature at least 300 exhibitors, including Harley-Davidson, Triumph, and Ducati, alongside Indian manufacturers. Some of its major highlights are the Great Migration Ride, where bikers travel in groups to Goa, and the Flat Track Racing Championship.
These events, a former sarpanch of Anjuna said, gives local businesses like hotels, restaurants, and shops a huge opportunity as they compete to cater to the influx of visitors.
Organizers meanwhile believe Goa’s tourism 'oomph' make it the perfect backdrop for such motorcycling events.
