Saturday night in Jalan Ampang is usually full of traffic, but the 17th of December saw a different sort of traffic jam.
Thousands of bikes thronged the busy thoroughfare as the 8th Annual Kuala Lumpur Bike Week warmed up to its finale.
Held over two days, the event was not drowned out by rain.
Instead, around 30,000 bikers of all shapes and sizes braved the wet to revel in the sights and sounds of Kuala Lumpur’s chopper scene.
There was plenty to take in; more than 80 stalls selling various bike paraphernalia, bike club stalls, swap meet and food trucks.
Harley-Davidson and Victory Motorcycles spearheaded the various marques represented at the event with importers such as FS Bikes, Kustom Bike Plaza and The Big Bike Shop present as well.
The Kustom Bike Show was one of the highlights of the event with café racers, classic bikes and vintage bikes represented as well. There was no shortage of well turned out bikes competing, even a Yamaha Y15ZR fitted out with superbike wheels, Brembo brakes and Ohlins suspension. There were bobbers, cafes and trackers galore and not just on the competition floor. The bike park was filled with great looking bikes, as well.
The custom culture is well and truly booming in Malaysia. Events like KL Bike Week and Art of Speed help stoke the fire.
Launched by Deputy Tourism and Culture Minister Datuk Mas Ermieyatie Shamsudin, the 8th running marks the first time that the event has been recognised by the ministry. Event deputy director Dira Abu Zahar of Red Garage notes that even the fairer sex was well represented. Four ladies clubs, namely the Ladys of Harley, Desmodonna, Lady Bikers Malaysia and Harley Owners, Ladies were at Bike Week. One of the star attractions was the appearance of American stunt rider Christina Lee Billings. Jalan Ampang was partially closed off for her stunt show, but unfortunately, the wet road and lack of space prevented her from truly showing off her skills.
It was not only jammed outside on Jalan Ampang but the whole of The Lanai, MATIC was a jam of people, and being close to KLCC meant there were plenty of foreign visitors as well, bikers and otherwise. Centre stage was where most of the visitors congregated, to enjoy the concerts by various indie bands and a special appearance by Wings on the final night.