December 10, 2010 Cypress Ca - MotoGP Rookie of the Year and Team Yamaha Factory MotoGP pilot Ben Spies is scheduled to make a special fan appearance at the Long Beach Progressive Insurance International Motorcycle Show next Friday, December 17^th.

Fresh off a spectacular first test session on the Factory Yamaha M1, Ben will be in the Yamaha booth from 6:00-7:30 PM Friday evening signing autographs and he’s anxious to see his Southern California friends and fans once again.

Ben will also be presented a very special one-of-a kind Yamaha WR450F designed by renowned bike builder and former Yamaha AMA 250cc Road Race champion Roland Sands.

“Normally I stay in Texas during the entire month of December to be with my family,” said Spies, “but I wanted to come out to say a special thanks to my California fans for the tremendous support they’ve given me this year!”

Consumers may also get an up close look at the new line up of 2011 Yamaha motorcycles and ATV’s at the Long Beach Show including the new Stryker from Star Motorcycles, the new FZ-8, and the all new “Adventure Touring” Super Tenere. Demo rides will also be available to those holding a valid operators license on a first-come-first-served basis.

See the Yamaha Motorcycle Demo & Display Schedule for more IMS information.