The most popular event on the Bay of Plenty Motorcycle Club’s calendar – Summercross – is back for its 53rd year.

The event ran smoothly last year, with all riders having a blast, and although numbers are lower in 2025, there are still some top riders taking part.

Bay of Plenty Motorcycle Club president Symon Hall expects plenty of excitement despite the reduced field.

“They are a bit light, but I honestly feel like that’s just the sign of the times and people are struggling. The last few major events have been low on numbers and bike sales, from what I have been told, are down. I think people are just feeling the pinch.

“Our preparation for Summercross is just carrying on as normal and it’s going really well. The track is looking good and we’ve made some real changes to it this year.”

The adjustments to the track include more passing areas, a new split lane and a new roller section, making for plenty of excitement.

“They’ll bring the racing together. The split lane is exciting, and we’re excited to see that go through. It’s had a couple of practice days on it to see if it runs well, but we’re excited to see racing on it.

“Come gate drop time, I’m super excited to see how things eventuate and who will be crowned Summercross champions of 2025.”

Maximus Purvis, Josiah Natske and Mitch Rees will all be in attendance.

“Maximus is the defending MX1champion and Josiah finished second last year, so those two will be competitive, and there’s about 10 riders who could win the MX2 grade,” said Hall.

“There are some really good juniors coming through as well.”

Hall is confident there will be a strong crowd across the two days of racing.

“We’ve still got all the main brands coming, like Kawasaki, Honda, Yamaha. They are the big names of motocross. It’s just that some of the fields are a bit light. People will still see some fantastic racing.”

Smaller fields could lead to more competitive racing on what should be a fast track.

“You have to be in it to win it.”

Some talented Eastern Bay riders will also be on show. As for the weather, Hall said it was looking favourable.

“We will be going ahead rain, hail or shine. It’s been a lot of work getting it ready and a lot of costs, so it will go ahead no matter what.”

Spectators will also be able to win a Honda CRF 50R just by purchasing a ticket on Sunday morning.

It will be drawn during the lunch break that day.

Hall is thankful for all the support shown by sponsors, volunteers and the committee.

“Without their help something like this simply wouldn’t go ahead.

“We’re super grateful for their continued assistance,” he said.

The adults race on Sunday, December 28 and the juniors race on Monday, December 29.