Big bikes to roar into the capital

"The venue is in front of CentralWorld, which will attract lots of passers-by and shoppers. It will be held from May 1-3.

"The event is aimed at providing bike enthusiasts and the general public an opportunity to see all of the bikes in one place. This is the first event of its kind in Thailand," said organiser Nattapon Trinathy.

Besides big bikes, the event will also feature classic and highly modified motorcycles.

More than 100,000 viewers and sales of about Bt10 million are expected over the three-day period.

The embassies of some countries, including Italy, the UK and the US, have been invited to be on hand to promote tourism in Thailand.

Honda will have a stand that promotes its recently completed Safety Riding Centre.

Big bikes, or bikes with engines of more than 400cc, are a growing market in Thailand.

Japanese motorcycle producers, including Suzuki, Yamaha and AP Honda, have started importing them into Thailand despite high duties.

The big-bike market remains strong because premium customers still have money to spend on luxuries.

The Kingdom's overall motorcycle market shrank 17 per cent year on year in the first quarter.