EUROPE's number one bike show, the International Motor Cycle Show returns to Birmingham's NEC from November 5 -14. Visitors can expect to see the official World and UK launches of over 50 new models. They will include Honda's new VTE 1000 SP, Suzuki's GSXR750 and Kawasaki's ZX12-R.

The International Motor Cycle Show is the first opportunity to see the latest bikes and clothing accessories from more than 250 exhibitors.

Triumph enters one of the most hotly-contested sectors of the bike market - the 600cc category - with the world launch of the TT600, arguably the most important British-built bike for 30 years.

Other new mouth-watering models include the legendary MV Agusta, Aprilia's SL1000 - a lower spec version of their World Superbike-inspired RSV 1000 - and Ducati's up-rated 748 and 996 - sales of which are guaranteed to be boosted by World Champion Carl Fogarty's performance on the track.

Foggy fans can join Carl on Friday November 5 at the NEC to celebrate his fourth championship title.

Foggy Day offers race fans the chance to meet the champ, win exclusive prizes, including a VIP trip to next year's Brands Hatch round of the World Superbike Championship as the Ducati team's official guest.

Cruiser fans can look forward to the Millennium line-up of Harley-Davidsons and the return to the UK, after an absence of 46 years, of the famous Indian marque. Suzuki will cruise into the learner custom stakes with its new VL125 LC.

A battle of th e Titans is forecast in the retro class. Retro machines - 70s styling coupled with modern technology - have attracted a new wave of riders looking for a bike that offers exciting performance and head-turning looks. Look out for Honda's X11- a naked Blackbird-based muscle bike - and a half-faired Hornet to challenge Yamaha's Fazer and Suzuki's updated Bandit.

Scooters have made a phenomenal comeback over the past five years. Sales have more than quadrupled, driven by demand for models such as the classic Piaggio Vespa ET4 and commuter and sports scooters such as the Peugeot Speedfight. Yamaha will unveil their Slider scooter - designed to appeal to the post-BMX generation looking for a fun form of transport.

Live attractions at the show include the opportunity to test ride the latest scooters around a specially designed circuit. Expert tuition, helmets and clothing will be provided. World Trials champion Dougie Lampkin will top the list of riders competing in the Arena trials in the Thrills 'n' Spills Arena. Motorcycle sports fans will also get the chance to meet many of their favourite riders on the Action Stage. The world's top stars will be interviewed aboard their bikes and there will be numerous competitions and prize give-aways. An Off-Road Feature will include a stunning display of the latest moto-cross and trials bikes, including World Championship winning machines.

Find out more by visiting the show's website: www.motorcycle show.co.uk.

The show opens its doors on Friday November 5 and closes on Sunday 14. Opening times are 10am-6pm. Admission prices are £12 adults, £5 for 11-16s and Seniors. Accompanied children under 11 are admitted free. Admission for Foggy Day on Friday November 5 is £25 with extended opening times - 9am-7pm.

Story date: Wednesday 27 October

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.