It’s no secret that finding ways to get more new riders licensed and on bikes is a central concern for the powersports industry. With young people eschewing traditional paths to motorcycle ownership, manufacturers have had to get creative in their marketing and tailor new products for this increasingly environmentally-conscious demographic.
So it is with great interest that I read the latest announcement from the upcoming Progressive International Motorcycle Show circuit: an outside-the-box initiative designed to draw more than just the tired old group of enthusiasts to the seven shows on the schedule this year (and yes, I’m including myself in the “tired old group”). It’s called Discover the Ride.
The IMS has always been a fun place for moto enthusiasts to go and bask in all things two-wheeled-goodness, but Discover the Ride is specifically designed to introduce the experience we all know and love to those who don’t currently ride. Discover the Ride will incorporate five main attractions:

An indoor riding course on power-limited electric Zero motorcycles
A kids’ zone with a closed course on electric Stacyc balance bikes
A New to 2 education area where non-riders can learn more about the world of motorcycling
Stationary motorcycles mounted to dynos that allow non-riders to familiarize themselves with using the clutch and shifting through the gears
An XDL Wheelie Experience…OK, this one is for us experienced riders, where we c...