Bendigo, home to some hundred thousand and one of Victoria’s largest regional centres, is set to heat up a little early this year as Central Victoria hosts its first major Motorcycle Expo.

The 2009 Bendigo Motorcycle Expo, sponsored by Shannons, will be held at the Prince of Wales Showgrounds Exhibition Building and is hoped to become an annual event, with up to 10,000 visitors expected this year.

As you’d expect, all the major manufacturers of on and off-road motorcycles, including Yamaha, Honda, Kawasaki, Harley-Davidson, Suzuki, and Triumph are expected to take part, along with many scooter distributors.

Customised drag and racer bikes will also form popular parts of the event.

Motorcycle accessories manufacturers and distributors will be peddling their wares as well, with trade stalls showcasing products from helmets and riding wear, to parts, accessories, bike trailers and even airbrushing for your prized cruiser.

It won’t just be about the spectacle and shopping, though, with safe-riding initiatives and educational stands appearing as well, in an effort to promote Bendigo as ‘rider friendly’.

Shannons recently opened the Shannons  Regional Development Office in Bendigo – the only major representation by an enthusiast’ insurer in regional Victoria – so you can expect a strong presence from the event’s sponsor as well.

The Shannons Big Rig will be a major feature at the expo, serving as the event’s main presentation stage.