If the first thing you did once Christmas was over was rush to your nearest Dainese sale to stock up on some new garments, it may be that at the forefront of your mind as the new year dawns are the many motorcycle events taking place. Here's our guide to some of the best.

Every year there are so many amazing motorcycle events to look forward to, it can be tough to choose where to go. Some boast displays of classic motors, while others promise live music and stunt displays. However, out of all there is on offer, there are a few that really stand out.

MCN Motorcycle Show

Plans for the Carol Nash MCN Motorcycle Show are already at full throttle, with the event set to take place from February 2nd to 5th 2012.

In just a few weeks time you can grab your Dainese jackets, hop on your motorcycle and head to the ExCel London, which will have been decked out like a biker's paradise.

Just a few of the attractions on display will be a showcase of some of the hottest bikes from manufacturers around the world, a live show featuring amazing stunts you should never attempt on your own set of wheels and the chance to meet some of your heroes.

In addition, you will be able to see which of the ten motorbikes to make it to the final is crowned Classic Bike of the Year.

British Superbike Championship

As spring arrives, so does one of the biggest events on the biking calendar: the MCE Insurance British Superbike Championship.

This year, you will be able to watch the elite teams do battle on the racetrack between April 6th and 9th, when Round One takes place. The Brands Hatch venue in Kent is one of the busiest circuits in Europe and a great place for bikers to test their metal on the track.

The final round will also be held here between October 12th and 14th, while you can also catch other events up to this date, including one at the iconic Silverstone Arena between September 28th and 30th.

MotoGP

MotoGP is perhaps the premium motorcycling event of the year and an incredibly thrilling occasion to be part of.

This year's British Grand Prix for biking will be held between June 15th and 17th at Silverstone and is definitely something that is not to be missed if you are a fan of the sport.

In addition to the racing, you can watch spectacular stunt shows, with 2011 seeing a display by the UK's legendary stunt rider Craig Jones. You can also watch a dazzling air spectacle, which last year featured the Parachute regiment Freefall Team, and listen to live music.

Bulldog Bash

For something completely different to everything else on the motorcycling calendar, book a ticket to the Bulldog Bash.

Although no date has been officially announced, it is traditionally held on the second weekend of August in Warwickshire and it is the ultimate combination of biking and music.

In 2011, the likes of Status Quo, Bad Manners and The Damned played, while there is also a dance tent to show off your moves. Of course, you will be able to see racing while you are here – just head for the drag strip.

With so much to look forward to, you might want to mark these dates in your diary now.