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Come Check Out IMS Long Beach – It's Like EICMA Lite

Come Check Out IMS Long Beach – It's Like EICMA Lite

We may not have epic bike shows like Intermot or EICMA to call our own in the United States (thanks Trump), but we do have the International Motorcycle Shows. And they kick-off the weekend of November 18-20 in Long Beach, California.

RideApart will be there shaking babies and kissing hands so feel free to track us down and say hello if you’re not too wrapped up in the IMS experience.

One thing that IMS does great is entertain attendees, and this year there are a handful of new attractions to go along with the tried and true entertainment of shows in the past. Here’s a look at the list of things you can check out at any IMS.

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The two new programs are the Inked Tattoo Parlor and the Metal Mulisha stunt show featuring Jimmy Fitzpatrick and the Metal Mulisha Fitz Army. Fitz has become a staple on West Coast motorcycle show scene as they jump, flip and generally put on a great freestyle show that includes all the requisite dirt bike jumping antics from knack-knacks to back flips. I've covered these guys for years and I have seen the positive influence they have on kids (Despite the rough and tumble appearance), so if you're there, go watch a show. Here's a pretty cool video of the Mulisha Fitz Army from an episode of "America's Got Talent" that may give you new respect for the Freestyle MX guys.

The Inked Tattoo Parlor is unique and interesting as on site artists will be drawing airbrushed tats on patrons who want to look the part without paying the permanent price of getting a real tattoo. The emergence of the retro scene pushed IMS organizers to revamp its IMS Vintage display and they are hinting at some surprising changes to it for the 2016-2017 season, so you know we will be there snapping pics and showing off the latest old-school cool rides from builders all across the USA.

"Our goal is to make the IMS tour as interactive and fun as possible for our attendees,” explains Tracy Harris, Senior Vice President Powersports Group, UBM. “We want to provide an unforgettable experience to all that attend one of our shows, while advancing the motorcycle industry through the showcase of new bikes, equipment and technology from many of the industry leading OEMs and exhibitors."

Here is the complete list of attractions, displays and events taking place at all the IMS Shows:

The Progressive Welcome Center- Accumulating awesome giveaways and gear at IMS is easier when you have a convenient Progressive show bag. IMS offer them free to every attendee at the Welcome Center, as well as directions to the Progressive Parlor and info on how to get your hands on more swag. In addition, Progressive customers are rewarded with a free VIP gift.

The Progressive Stage- This year, the Progressive stage will host a variety of intriguing guests, including performances from local bands, artist Makoto Endo and more. Come snag a front-row seat and experience motorcycle culture first hand.

The Progressive Parlor- The Progressive Parlor is a one-stop shop for entertainment and service. Within the Parlor, Progressive operates a collection of activities: Grab a cup of Joe, watch live motorcycle illustration, check out innovative industry products in the partner showroom, get barber or manicure services from Flo's Chop Shop, or just relax with friends at the Progressive stage while enjoying live music and industry leader interviews.

Flo's Chop Shop- Get cleaned up at Flo's Chop Shop from the best barbers, hand-picked out of Austin, Texas ("Hand-picked" barbers? – Ed). We also offer other personal tune-ups, such as boot shines, and mini-manicures, for all riders alike. During the month of November, Progressive teams up with the Movember Foundation for a second year of the Mos and Motos campaign, to help raise money and awareness for men's health. Come into Flo's Chop Shop to sign up, shave down, and learn more about "Throttle Therapy". Complimentary gifts are distributed to all Mos and Motos participants!

Flo's Coffee Grinder- A place to take a load off, grab a cup of Joe (or other hot beverage), and discuss all things motorcycle insurance, Flo's Coffee Grinder has you covered. Progressive agents are on site with free caffeine to get you revved up with the right information and to continue your journey through the International Motorcycle Show. Besides leather, how else are you covered?

The Studio- Motorcycles and art, see it come alive at The Progressive Studio. An artist will be on site to create unique motorcycle-inspired masterpieces, inspired by those who love to ride and the beautiful works of art that we call motorcycles.

The Marketplace presented by Cycle Gear- The Marketplace presented by Cycle Gear has been a focal point of the IMS tour as it serves as a one-stop shop for all of the latest motorcycle parts, accessories and equipment from many of the leading brands in the industry.

J&P Cycles Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show- Now in its eighth consecutive year, the J Cycles Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show is the largest and one of the most sought after touring custom bike competitions in the United States.

Kids Zone Presented by Allstate- Young children, aged 18 months – 5 years old, can explore life on two wheels for free. This allows kids to experience the challenge and thrill of riding a balance bike in a safe environment.

Demo Rides- Licensed riders get the chance to test ride bikes from many of the participating brands including BMW, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Indian, Slingshot, Suzuki, Victory, and Yamaha. The Demo ride program is only offered at IMS Long Beach.

The 2016-2017 Progressive IMS tour kicks off at the Long Beach Convention Center in Long Beach, CA on November 18-20. To learn more about the IMS tour, see the full tour schedule and purchase tickets, please visit: motorcycleshows.com.