What’s Upcoming for Bikers in 2025: IBW & MotoSoul Guide

The calendar year 2025 is not ending with a whimper; it is ending with the roar of thousands of engines echoing against the cliffs of Vagator. For the Indian motorcycling community, December has traditionally been the month of the "Great Migration"—a time when riders from Kashmir to Kanyakumari strap on their luggage, gear up, and point their headlights toward the sunny state of Goa.

However, December 2025 is different. It isn't just about one event anymore. The fourth quarter is shaping up to be a biker’s dream season with two massive, world-class festivals scheduled back-to-back: TVS MotoSoul 5.0 and the legendary India Bike Week (IBW). With Royal Enfield’s MotoVerse having already set the tone in November, the anticipation for these final two events is at an all-time high.

Whether you are a seasoned tourer, a track-day junkie, or someone looking to sell your old bike to upgrade to the latest 2026 models, this guide covers everything you need to know. We will deep dive into the schedules, the highly anticipated upcoming bike launches, and how to survive the wildest weeks in Indian motorcycling history.

The Golden Quarter: Why This December is Historic

For years, bikers had to choose between events or make multiple trips. This year, the scheduling is nothing short of tactical genius. The proximity of dates allows for an extended "Biker’s Fortnight." It represents a maturation of the Indian market. Manufacturers are no longer just selling commuters; they are selling a lifestyle. The events are distinct: MotoSoul focuses on brand loyalty and technical prowess, while IBW is a melting pot of every brand, subculture, and custom builder in the country.

If you have been waiting for the right time to buy a performance motorcycle, the used bike market usually sees a flood of listings in January as riders upgrade after these festivals. But before we get to buying and selling, let's look at the parties.

Event 1: TVS MotoSoul 5.0 – The Innovation Hub

Dates: December 5-6, 2025
Location: Hilltop, Vagator, Goa
Theme: 'All Out Motorcycling'

TVS MotoSoul will kick off the festival season. Now in its fifth edition, MotoSoul has evolved from a simple customer engagement program into a serious festival of speed and culture. While it is a TVS-exclusive event, the sheer quality of entertainment and education draws riders of all brands.

The Atmosphere: "All Out Motorcycling"

The theme for 2025 is "All Out Motorcycling," and TVS interprets this by turning the venue into an amusement park for petrolheads. Unlike typical auto shows where you stand behind a barricade, MotoSoul is immersive.

• Dirt Track Racing: Watch the Apache series bikes tear up the mud. It is visceral, loud, and dirty.
• Gymkhana & Obstacle Courses: A test of precision riding. This is where the agility of the TVS chassis really shines.
• Stunt Wars & The Globe of Death: High-octane entertainment that keeps the adrenaline pumping even when you aren't riding.

The "Soul" of MotoSoul: Education

What truly sets this festival apart is the focus on learning. TVS is committed to making Indian riders better and safer. Attendees can access:

• Tech Seminars: Learn the physics of cornering or suspension tuning from race engineers.
• Customization Workshops: Understand the art of metal shaping and painting from master builders.
• Racing Insights: Panel discussions with TVS Racing champions who have conquered the Dakar and national championships.

The Big Launch: TVS Apache RTX 300

This is the moment industry insiders are waiting for. TVS is expected to unveil the Apache RTX 300, their first dedicated Adventure Tourer. Why is this a big deal? Because TVS has mastered the track (Apache RR310) and the city (Ronin), but they have been missing from the ADV segment.

Expected Specs:

In addition to the RTX 300, TVS will showcase a Pre-production RTSX Supermoto. This concept, first teased at the Auto Expo in Jan 2025, is for the hooligan rider—lightweight, high torque, and sticky tyres. If launched, it creates a new segment in India.

Event 2: India Bike Week (IBW) 2025 – The Carnival

Dates: December 12-13, 2025
Location: Vagator, Goa
Vibe: The Great Migration

If MotoSoul is a precision strike, India Bike Week is a carpet bombing of energy. Back for its 12th edition, IBW is the largest motorcycle festival in Asia. From its humble beginnings in 2013 with 5,000 riders, it now hosts over 20,000 enthusiasts. It is loud, dusty, chaotic, and absolutely beautiful.

The Custom Culture: Jameson Build Off

Customization is the heart of IBW. The highlight for 2025 is the Jameson IBW Build Off. This isn't just about slapping on a new paint job; it's about engineering art.

Three of India’s top builders have been selected to modify the Harley-Davidson X440. With a budget of ?1.5 Lakh, they have to transform this roadster into something unique. The stakes? The winner flies to the Adventure Bike Rider Festival in the UK in June 2026. This competition pushes the boundaries of what Indian custom builders can do, and the X440 serves as a fantastic, metal-heavy canvas.

Racing: Harley-Davidson Flat Track

Flat track racing is gaining massive popularity in India, largely thanks to events like this. Rajputana Customs has built special, race-prepped 440X machines for this event. It is fully FMSCI-sanctioned, meaning real racers, real rules, and a massive prize purse of ?10 Lakh. Watching these heavy bikes slide sideways through the dirt is a spectacle you cannot miss.

Major Launch: Brixton Crossfire 500 Storr

IBW 2025 will serve as the launchpad for Brixton Motorcycles in India. Their headline act is the Crossfire 500 Storr.

The "Storr" name comes from a rock formation in Scotland, and the bike looks the part—rugged, utilitarian, and unique. It features a 486cc twin-cylinder engine producing 47 PS and 43 Nm.

Market Impact: Priced around ?5.9 Lakh (estimated), it sits in a competitive spot. It challenges the Honda NX500 on specs and the Benelli TRK 502 on size. If Brixton gets the service network right, this could be the surprise hit of 2026. It gives buyers an option who want something more exclusive than a Himalayan but less common than a Japanese tourer.

The Orange Brigade: KTM 390 SMC R

KTM loves IBW. Last year they teased the Adventure; this year, rumors are strong for the KTM 390 SMC R. This is a Supermoto based on the new 390 platform. It’s tall, light, and aggressive. For the Indian market, which is filled with potholes and traffic, a Supermoto is actually the perfect weapon. This launch signifies that KTM is ready to bring its niche global portfolio to Indian shores.

Music & Lifestyle

It wouldn't be IBW without the music. The lineup includes Divine, Brodha V, and OAFF. The fusion of hip-hop and electronic music perfectly matches the high-energy vibe of the festival. Beyond music, there are Moto-Art exhibits, vintage bike displays, and the famous "Big Trip" tent where overlanders share stories of riding across continents.

The "Biker’s Fortnight": What to do Dec 7-11?

So, MotoSoul ends on the 6th, and IBW starts on the 12th. You have 5 days in paradise. Instead of flying back and forth, most riders are planning a "workation" or a riding holiday. Here is a suggested itinerary for the gap week:

• Sunday, Dec 7: Recovery & Bike Care. After two days of MotoSoul, your bike needs love. Visit the local wash centers in Mapusa or Anjuna. Lube your chain, check your tyre pressure.
• Monday, Dec 8: The South Goa Run. Ride away from the Vagator crowd towards Cola Beach or Cabo de Rama. The roads are twisty, the traffic is less, and the views are stunning.
• Tuesday, Dec 9: The Chorla Ghat Loop. If you crave corners, ride up the Chorla Ghat towards Belgaum and back. It is one of the best riding roads in Western India.
• Wednesday, Dec 10: Cafe Hopping. Explore the biker-friendly cafes like Royal Enfield Garage Cafe or Moto Cafe to meet other riders who have arrived early for IBW.
• Thursday, Dec 11: Gear Upgrade. Visit the pop-up stalls that often open a day early around the IBW venue. It’s a great time to buy mesh jackets or gloves before the main crowd arrives.

Impact on the Indian Motorcycling Industry

Why do these festivals matter? They are accelerators for the industry. They bring together the unorganized sector (custom builders, accessory makers) and the corporate giants (TVS, KTM, Harley).

For the consumer, this drives innovation. The feedback brands get at these festivals is instantaneous. If a rider sits on the new Apache RTX 300 and complains about the seat height, engineers take note.

Furthermore, these events stimulate the used bike economy. Many riders attend these festivals, fall in love with a new launch (like the Brixton), and decide to sell their current motorcycles immediately. This creates a fantastic opportunity for buyers in January and February. If you are looking to buy, keep an eye on Wait4Ads Bikes Section post-December. If you are looking to sell to fund your new Brixton, listing your bike in November/December is crucial to get the cash ready.

Preparation Guide: Ride to Goa

Riding to Goa in December is a rite of passage, but it requires preparation. The highways (NH48 from Mumbai/Pune or the route from Bangalore) will be packed.

1. Machine Check

Ensure your bike is serviced 2 weeks before the trip. Do not service it the day before; you need time to test if anything is loose. Check tyres, brake pads, and chain sprocket health.

2. Document Check

Goa police are strict during festival season. Ensure you have valid Insurance, PUC, RC, and Driving License. Keep digital copies, but carry physical copies too.

3. Gear Up

Goa is hot and humid, even in December. Leather gear looks cool but can cause dehydration. Opt for high-quality Mesh Jackets and riding pants. Hydration packs (Camelbaks) are life-savers on the highway.

4. Sell Before You Buy

If you are planning to book a bike at the festival, ensure you have your finances sorted. If you have an idle bike in the garage, list it on Wait4Ads now. Listing it with a title like "Ready for Touring" can attract buyers looking for a ride to Goa.

Frequently Asked Questions (Extended)

Q1: Is it worth attending if I ride a scooter?
Absolutely. The motorcycling community is inclusive. Whether you ride a Jupiter or a Goldwing, the passion is the same. Plus, events like MotoSoul have specific events for scooter agility.

Q2: What is the ticket pricing breakdown?
IBW: Day Pass ~?2199 | Weekend Pass ~?2999 | Platinum (VIP) ~?8000.
MotoSoul: Day Pass ~?900 | Weekend Pass ~?1800.
Tip: Look for "Early Bird" offers on their official sites.

Q3: Can I camp at the venue?
IBW usually has a dedicated camping ground called "IBW Camp site." It offers tents and basic amenities. It is a great way to save money on expensive December hotels and stay close to the party.

Q4: Will there be test rides for the Brixton Storr?
Yes, Brixton will likely have a test track setup. However, queues can run into hours. Reach the manufacturer stalls as soon as the gates open (usually 11 AM) to book your slot.

Q5: How do I transport my bike if I don't want to ride all the way?
Several logistics companies run "Bike Transport to IBW" services from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. They truck your bike to Goa, you fly in, ride for 2 days, and fly back.

Conclusion

The upcoming weeks in Goa are going to define the trajectory of biking in 2026. From the rugged utility of the Brixton Crossfire 500 Storr to the technological leap of the TVS Apache RTX 300, the hardware on display is impressive. But beyond the metal, it is the spirit of the community that makes these events special.

It is a celebration of freedom, engineering, and friendship. So, check your tyre pressures, polish your helmet visor, and get ready for the ride of the year. And remember, if you need to clear garage space for these new beauties, the smartest move is to visit Wait4Ads and find a new home for your current ride.

Ride Safe, Ride Hard, and See You in Vagator!