The iconic India Bike Week (IBW) is gearing up for a major revamp in its 12th edition. Slated for 2025, the festival is bidding farewell to its traditional home in Goa and heading to the picturesque hill station of Panchgani in Maharashtra. Organizers promise this move marks a fresh chapter, bringing cooler climes, winding roads, and a host of new experiences to the biking community.
A New Scenic Backdrop for Adventure
The shift to Panchgani is the headline change for IBW 2025. The organizers highlight the advantages of the new location, emphasizing the cooler weather and scenic surroundings perfect for riding enthusiasts. While specific attendance figures remain undisclosed, a strong turnout is anticipated. The core of the event remains its impressive lineup of motorcycle brands, with major manufacturers like KTM, Triumph, Hero, Bajaj Pulsar, Aprilia, and Harley-Davidson confirming their presence.
This year, the festival is consciously expanding its appeal. A significant focus is on making IBW a more family-friendly event, with dedicated activities and tracks designed for children, ensuring it's a destination for all.
Thrills, Builds, and Musical Beats
The action on the ground will be more diverse than ever. The new terrain allows for exciting activities like hill climbs and mud trails. A major attraction will be the Endurance Stunt Show by renowned rider Pol Tarres, powered by Gulf Syntrac, alongside a popular Wheelie Experience. For those looking to get hands-on with the machines, the event will feature what is touted as the country's largest Test Ride Arena, showcasing premium bikes across segments.
Racing purists can look forward to FMSCI-backed formats including hill climbs and flat-track racing. The custom culture gets a spotlight with the IBW Bike Build Off by Jameson Ginger Ale, where three shortlisted builders will each receive Rs 1.5 lakh and a Harley-Davidson X440 to create unique machines, with the grand reveal at the event.
Beyond Biking: Entertainment and Community
Music and storytelling will run parallel to the roaring engines. The festival stage will host performances by artists like King, Karan Kanchan, Sugga Honey, and Antariksh. The Big Trip platform, presented by Gulf Syntrac, returns in an expanded format, featuring travellers and storytellers from across the globe, with an expo to help plan future adventures.
New interactive elements include the Skoda Kodiaq All-Wheel Drive Track for off-road driving experiences. Visitors will also have opportunities to engage with overlanders, racers, and builders, witness new motorcycle launches, and try experiences like the Pulsar Stunt School.
A key success for IBW has been its growing national reach. Initiatives like Chai Pakoda rides and WhatsApp communities in over 30 cities continue to engage riders from Tier-2 and Tier-3 towns, who now form a substantial part of the festival's audience. The move to Panchgani seems poised to write an exciting new trail in the history of India's premier motorcycle celebration.
