Eureka Springs Motorcycle Rally 2022? Top 65 Best Answers

If you’re a motorcycle enthusiast who can’t wait to get on your bike and join other like-minded people, you have ample opportunity to do so. Several motorcycle rallies are held across the country each year, making it easy for enthusiasts to participate in at least one of them.

While a motorcycle rally can be viewed as a gathering of motorcycle enthusiasts of any number, some have grown to be the largest in the country. These modern motorcycle rallies not only feature bikes, but also live music, food vendors, competitions and many other types of outdoor fun. Some of them take place over a long weekend while others last for days.

Motorcycle rallies, often held in scenic locations, offer motorcyclists the opportunity to see some of the country’s most beautiful scenery and visit historic sites and attractions. Whether you’re traveling alone or with a pack of bikers, here are five of the biggest motorcycle rallies held throughout the year in the United States.

1st Daytona Bike Week

If you’re looking for fun, sun, and motorcycle action, head to Daytona Beach in mid-March. This annual event takes place an hour south of St. Augustine, Florida and features a wide variety of celebrations, including street fairs, live entertainment, and food and craft vendors.

The first Bike Week was held in 1937 but was canceled in 1942. The American Motorcycle Association canceled the event due to limited supplies of fuel and engine parts due to World War II. Bike Week resumed five years later, and now nearly 500,000 people from across the country attend the 10-day event.

2nd Laughlin River Run Motorcycle Rally

If you love motorcycles and also like to gamble, the Laughlin River Run, held in Laughlin, Nevada in late April, is the motorcycle rally for you. While not the busiest motorcycle rally, it still ranks as the largest motorcycle event in the west.

In addition to hosting the event, which has been held annually since 1983, Laughlin, located on the Colorado River, is also home to several hotels/casinos, restaurants, boutiques, a few museums and even a 34-lane bowling alley.

The motorcycle rally features many exciting events including a custom bike show, charity poker runs, the Ms. Laughlin River Run competition and free outdoor entertainment.

3rd Laconia Motorbike Week

If you are a motorcycle enthusiast who is also a fan of history, Laconia Motorcycle Week is for you. Known as the nation’s oldest motorcycle rally, Laconia Motorcycle Week has been around since 1916. The rally is held in Laconia, New Hampshire, on Lake Winnipesaukee.

The event takes place every year in mid-June and is considered the second largest motorcycle rally in the country with 400,000 participants. With bike shows, poker tournaments, charity rides, gypsy tours and live music, there’s never a dull moment in Laconia during Motorbike Week.

If you want to venture outside of the community, the area also features Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast, as well as the New Hampshire Motor Speedway at Loudon.

4th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

The tiny town of Sturgis has a small population, but the community swells to overflowing during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The annual event has been held since 1938 and brings nearly half a million people from across the country to the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Located just an hour from Mount Rushmore, Sturgis is a popular spot for bikers because of the opportunity to explore and enjoy activities alongside the rally, including visiting Custer State Park and the Crazy Horse Memorial.

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally takes place in early August and alongside street food and concerts you can also catch the poker tournament and many bike shows and racing events.

5. Bikes, Blues and BBQ

Bikes, Blues and BBQ, which is considered the largest charity motorcycle rally, has been held every year since 2000. Only 300 riders attended the first event, but the four-day event now hosts 400,000 riders from every state in the country, as well as riders from around the world.

The event takes place in Fayetteville, Arkansas, in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains. Proceeds from the charity motorcycle rally go to underserved residents of Northwest Arkansas.

The family-friendly event takes place on the last weekend of September and in addition to delicious BBQ, visitors will experience Harley-Davidson demo rides, helicopter flights, live music, poker runs and a bull riding event.

No matter what event you plan to attend, you need to make sure you are prepared. If you need riding apparel, motorcycle accessories or need to replace certain parts on your bike, you can order all that and more from Bob’s Cycle Supply. Our company is employee owned and has been providing superior customer service and the best possible prices for over 40 years.

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Red River, also called the Red River of the South, is a navigable river that originates in the high plains of eastern New Mexico, United States and flows southeast through Texas and Louisiana to a point northwest of Baton Rouge where it joins the Atchafalaya River , which flows south to Atchafalaya Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. By the mid-20th century, the Red River contributed to both the Atchafalaya and, via the Old River, to the Mississippi. However, with the construction of a flood control system on the Old River, the Red River ceased to function as a tributary of the Mississippi. The Red River drains an area of ​​about 93,000 square miles (241,000 square kilometers).

The Red River is 2,080 km long; for about half that distance it serves as the border between Texas and Oklahoma. Its principal tributaries are the North Fork of the Red, the Kiamichi, Little, Black (Ouachita), Pease, Sulfur, Wichita, and Washita rivers, and the Bodcau and Cypress bayous.

Britannica Quiz Water and its Different Forms Although water exists in three states, there is only one correct answer to the questions in this quiz. Dive in and test your water knowledge… and see if you sink or swim.

Early shipping above Natchitoches, Louisiana was hampered by a 160-mile (260 km) loglog known as the Great Raft. In the 1830s, Henry Miller Shreve created the first hookboats to clear the raft. A second log jam was cleared in 1873. Although Southwest Arkansas, about 450 miles (725 km) upriver, is considered major shipping today, ships longer than 4 feet (1.2 meters) can get as far just a few months later that year. Most traffic takes place in the lowest 56 km section of the river. Denison Dam (1944), 726 miles (1,168 km) above the river mouth, forms Lake Texoma. Many reservoirs have been built on Red River tributaries in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana as part of a flood control and river development program.

The river and its valley were the site of the Red River campaign in the American Civil War.

(Originally posted by Creeping Jennie on ​Sunday March 29, 2015 ​in Sturgis.com Blogs)

My arguments against the previous:

1. Would a child ruin your vacation somewhere else? Vegas? Hawaii? Somewhere? Doubtful.

2. You can certainly find an “adult” party, but it’s not a big nude orgy everywhere. If you don’t want to stay where children are allowed, find out about the rules for the different campsites and choose accordingly.

3. Hahahahaha! nope As long as there are places that ban children, there will be adult nude parties and the rally will not turn into mommy-and-me classes.

4. My daughter will not leave my eyes. Do not buy alcohol for girls who may be underage without looking at their ID. Moron. Better yet, stay away from places where children are allowed.

5. Seriously? How about not sticking your dick in kids? It’s all your business, buddy.

Some arguments I’ve heard for getting kids to rally:

1. “I want to get my kids excited about motorcycles and motorcycle culture.”

2. “My kids should be able to go anywhere I go.”

3. “They should make the rally family-friendly.”

4. “We have family in the Black Hills and we wanted to kill two birds with one stone.”

5. “They have a lot to see and do in the Black Hills and we think they would enjoy it.”

Arguments against the foregoing:

1. Yes! You should! Motorcycle culture is not a dirty secret to be kept from children. There are many good lessons to learn about loyalty, honor and integrity.

2. Now I don’t completely agree. There are places that children shouldn’t go and parents have to accept that.

3. Nooooooooooo. We don’t have to dumb the world down so you don’t have to get up and actually be a parent. Children need to learn that the world doesn’t revolve around them and that they need to abide by rules and regulations. Sorry if that means your precious little snowflake won’t have a magical and wonder filled childhood any second because you have to find a babysitter. We are all free to make our own choices in life, don’t encroach on my freedom.

4. I have no problem with that as long as you don’t take Junior places he shouldn’t go.

5. Yes, there is! Plan your trip around your family. There is plenty to do and see here, but be aware that there will be many places in Sturgis that your child will not be allowed to enter during the rally.

Choose your accommodation carefully. Find out what the guidelines are. Some campsites have quiet periods. Some do not allow children. Some are famous for nude parades. Some may have live music, but if alcohol laws don’t allow kids in the area where the band is playing, your child won’t be able to see the show.

Consider renting a home in Rapid City and visiting Sturgis during the day. Rapid City is centrally located in the Black Hills area. It is not far from Rapid to Mt Rushmore, Crazy Horse, The Badlands etc. There are also a number of parks and activities for children in Rapid City.

Understand it is very crowded and noisy. A lot of kids just can’t handle that kind of stimulation. No one will enjoy themselves if your child freaks out.

know your child If your children are under ten years old, highly sensitive, picky about food, have health problems, have severe allergies, tend to run away or are little brats, I would suggest you leave them at home. For heaven’s sake, if I see another baby in a stroller at another concert, I’ll go crazy.

A few caveats for those planning to take their children to the rally: choose your accommodation carefully. Find out what the guidelines are. Some campsites have quiet periods. Some do not allow children. Some are famous for nude parades. Some may have live music, but if alcohol laws don’t allow kids in the area where the band is playing, your child won’t be able to see the show. Consider renting a home in Rapid City and visiting Sturgis during the day. Rapid City is centrally located in the Black Hills area. It is not far from Rapid to Mt Rushmore, Crazy Horse, The Badlands etc. There are also a number of parks and activities for children in Rapid City. A lot of kids just can’t handle that kind of stimulation. No one will enjoy themselves if your child freaks out. Do you know your child. If your children are under ten years old, highly sensitive, picky about food, have health problems, have severe allergies, tend to run away or are little brats, I would suggest you leave them at home. For heaven’s sake, if I see another baby in a stroller at another concert, I’ll go crazy. Ultimately, think about what’s best for your child, not what you want to do, not what sounds good in the short term. Isn’t that what you should do as a parent?

One topic guaranteed to spark discussion in Sturgis circles is the issue of getting kids to rally. Personally, I see both sides of the argument. Growing up in the Black Hills area, I’ve always been led to believe that good girls don’t go to Sturgis. Bikers were dirty, they stole, cursed, drank and caused trouble. The young ladies who attended the Sturgis celebrations were no better than prostitutes, and the motorcyclists who took them there. It certainly wasn’t a place for kids in the 80’s. In fact, the Sturgis schoolchildren seemed to have a reputation for being tough and prone to bizarre behavior. Each of those urban legends we’ve all heard of, like the girl who had a frozen hot dog surgically removed or the boy who ate his own hand in an LSD-fueled episode, always hail from Sturgis. As an adult, I discovered that the kids in Sturgis always pinned the stories of urban legends to the kids in Rapid City. Strange how rumors work, isn’t it? Many rally-goers see cycling rallies as a party for adults. The usual expectation is that “anything goes” which includes booze soaked orgies, nudity, swinging, drugs and whatever. Surely that kind of experience can be found; you just have to look for it. For many others, the rally is about driving through the Black Hills and enjoying the company of other drivers. Still, some find the rally is a time to consume large amounts of alcohol, enjoy the concerts and have a good time. For all it is a time and place free from negative judgment and less restrictions and concerns than “normal” daily life. i am a lucky girl I’ve lived in two European countries and traveled a little more than average. I understand that there isn’t just one way to skin a cat and no matter which way you choose, the skin still comes from the cat. I was fortunate enough to compete in the Thunderbolt Rally in Dungog, New South Wales, Australia in May 2012. This rally was organized by Australia’s largest social motorcycle club, the American Motorcycle Club. They held the entire rally in the fairgrounds of the village of Dungog, which seemed tiny compared to Sturgis. They had vendors, competitions of various kinds, and alcohol sales. The band Rose Tattoo, a rock band very popular in the country, should provide musical entertainment. There were patched members in many clubs I had heard of and many I had never heard of, social clubs and 1% clubs alike. Only two things surprised me. The first was that they sold cotton candy, which the Aussies call Fairy Floss. hehehe! Introduce! Big, burly, leather-clad bikers eating fluffy pink swathes of cotton candy! It was quite an entertaining sight. The second thing that surprised me was the sheer number of children in attendance. There were children of all ages there, from babies to late teens. During the day the kids roamed freely and enjoyed everything the rally had to offer. As the sun went down, the children were relegated back to their parents’ tents and RVs and put to bed under the supervision of an older teenager, friend or relative who either volunteered to babysit or drew the short straw. While we drank our Bundy and Coke cans, enjoyed the camaraderie of new and old friends, and threw things on the fire, the kids went to bed. A large tent would be the location where a strip show would take place. There were signs advising that after a certain time no one under the age of 18 would be admitted. In fact, we heard the commotion from our tent. Strip shows are a regular part of bike rallies, as are *um* the young women doing favors for those paying for them. We heard tales of naughty adventures from rally-goers that were definitely not suitable for children. At first I was shocked that the presence of children at an adults only party seemed encouraged. Then I thought about it. I remembered my own mother driving me and my siblings down Main Street to see all the bikes when I was about 12. We walked during the day and left before the sun had a chance to think about setting. I can’t remember seeing anything I shouldn’t have seen. My husband is from Australia and the rally I am describing was organized by his former club of which he was national secretary. His own children took part in various Thunderbolt rallies. They grew up in the club and his eldest followed his father’s example. One of his daughters, 20 years old, competed with us in the 2010 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. My two oldest children were there too. My son was seventeen, almost eighteen, and had just graduated from high school. My daughter was fifteen. We rented an RV and all five of us stayed at the Buffalo Chip. My two children didn’t see anything they shouldn’t have seen. They stayed outside the RV in my view. They didn’t stay all week as rallying just isn’t their thing. Nobody disturbed my children and my children disturbed nobody. Before deciding to bring them I made sure they were prepared for things they might see. They’re both pretty easy-going and used to my odd sense of humor, and nothing fazed them. Would I take my youngest son who is now 11 to the Buffalo Chip? nope He’s a completely different kid and he wouldn’t be able to handle it. He doesn’t stop and everyone he sees is his friend. He’d be in trouble and it would be a hell of a job taking care of him. During the day I take him to Main Street to check out the bikes, but he doesn’t need to hang out after the sun goes to bed. Some arguments I’ve heard against bringing kids to the rally: 1. “Your kid is going to ruin my vacation! I left my kids at home for a reason!”2. “It’s an adult party and children shouldn’t see this!”3. “People who take their kids to the rally will turn it into a PG13 kids party and ruin the rally.”4. “I don’t want to go to jail for buying your daughter a beer.”5. “Great. You bring your kid and I get arrested for statutory rape and branded a pedophile. You just ruined my life because you couldn’t leave your kid at home.” (Yes, actually heard a man say that)

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is one of the top motorcycle fan destinations in the world.

In fact, the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally has been named “The World’s Largest Biker Rally” by the Guinness Book of World Records and will host thousands of bikers when the 82nd Rally takes place from August 5-14, 2022.

Whilst the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally only takes place for a few weeks each August, there is so much more to do and see than just taking part in the rally – even if you don’t have a motorcycle!

After more than 80 years, organizers’ attendance is a science, and the event’s reputation provides a roadmap to having the best time while you’re in town. Bikers can participate in various competitions, buy and sell their favorite machines, attend hundreds of music concerts, see exciting stunt shows, and play games with their clan.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

What is the history of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally?

Clarence “Pappy” Hoel bought an Indian motorcycle franchise in 1936 and soon after founded the Jackpine Gypsies MotorCycle Club. Two years later, on August 14, 1938, the club held the first Sturgis Rally. To this day, the club owns and maintains the tracks, hill climbs, and fields that host Sturgis.

The very first event of the rally was a single race called the “Black Hills Classic”. Only nine riders took part in front of a small audience. Originally a platform for racing and stunts, by 1961 Sturgis included hillclimb and motocross racing. Then intentional collisions with ship’s sides, ramp jumps and head-on collisions with cars also came into play.

In 1982, Jerry Lee Lewis was the first musician to perform at the Sturgis. Since then, concerts have become a staple of Sturgis.

When is the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally?

In 2015, the City of Sturgis announced that the rally’s start date would be the Friday before the first full week of August and finish on the second Sunday.

In 2016, the city council even passed a resolution that said the rally would start on the first Friday of August!

With the data set in stone, the city and all attendees can prepare for an event that typically attracts 500,000 people annually while generating $800 million in revenue!

Where is the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally held?

Sturgis is a small town in South Dakota. The population was measured in 2020 at 6,796 residents, making it the 16th largest city in South Dakota.

Although Sturgis is the epicenter of the rally, the entire state of South Dakota is experiencing an economic boom thanks to the hundreds of thousands of participants and all of the businesses that serve the rally.

Are helmets required in South Dakota or neighboring states?

Harley-Davidson recommends wearing a helmet at all times, but South Dakota requires motorcycle helmets for riders under the age of 18 only. After that, all helmets must be removed! Or further, it’s up to you.

Meanwhile, neighboring states have different laws. Helmets are required for drivers under the age of 18 in North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming and Montana. In Nebraska, all drivers must wear helmets. While in Iowa nobody has to wear a helmet.

What are the speed limits in South Dakota?

There are over 82,000 miles of roads in South Dakota. The interstate speed limit is 80 MPH and the minimum speed is 40 MPH. On secondary roads the speed limit is 65 MPH.

Scenic highways, on the other hand, have reduced speeds due to the many bridges, curves, and sometimes limited visibility. Speed ​​limits are lower in urban areas. For example, when cruising the city streets, the speed limit is 25 MPH. School zones and blocked intersections are 15 MPH.

When should I come and how long should I stay?

When and how long you come depends on how long you can put your life on hold to attend, how long you can afford to attend, and what you want from your trip.

There is so much to do and the fear of missing out might compel you to stay the whole time, but don’t forget to leave room for some of the rides that take you well beyond Sturgis.

How much is the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally?

Participation in the rally is free. The city charges vendors a fee for its stalls and activities, but there are no entrance fees. Almost all events are free to attend, including some of the biggest concerts of the year. Even the paid parking is only $5 per car per day.

However, participation in the rally comes at a cost. You have to pay for food, drinks and accommodation if you want to camp or rent a room or bed.

Buffalo chip pass

When you’re at the Buffalo Chip. then a full festival pass ranges from $305.00 to $365.00 depending on when you purchase your pass and how much of the rally you plan to attend.

accommodations

Sturgis hotels charge double or triple their normal rates during the motorcycle rally. So if you’re looking to save money on accommodation in Sturgis, your best bet is to find an RV or RV. week, hotel rooms can range from $300 to $400 per night or more.

If you’re camping you might want to reserve 15+ days so you can enjoy the rally and have some buffer space for extra fun. That can cost you $100 to $175 per RV.

If you have an RV, you might pay up to $650 for a 50 amp service. Some campgrounds charge an additional camper fee of $100-$175 per camper.

Renting a $2,500 home for a group might be your best bet.

gas

Bikers must also pay for gas to get to and from Sturgis. Most bikes get about 45 miles per gallon, so to make the gas bill easier, just assume you’re paying $7 for 100 miles.

Add up your ride to and from Sturgis and add how much you’ll drive while you’re there. If you tour the area, you can walk 300 miles a day. So if you drive 1,200 to and from the rally and 900 while driving, that’s $147 in gas alone ([2,100 miles ÷ 100 miles] x $7 = $147).

food and food

Expect to pay at least $15-$30 per day for food as it is mostly restaurant, bar or stall food.

Is Sturgis Motorcycle Rally family friendly?

Sturgis isn’t exactly kid-friendly, but it can be if you want it to be.

For a family-friendly version of the Rally, avoid nocturnal activities when things get wild. You should also stay away from hotels that host large numbers of participants, as rally-goers often like to party late into the night.

Even a campground with lots of motorbikes can keep you and your kids awake with late-night tours.

What should I wear to Sturgis?

Remember to bring appropriate riding gear. Otherwise, your attire will depend on the weather and you won’t know that until the rally approaches.

In any case, don’t forget the sunscreen!

What should I pack?

Be minimalist in your packaging. So you have space for souvenirs! You can even buy items of clothing you wear during the rally at the rally, further saving space. Prioritize rain gear and shower essentials.

And don’t forget your motorcycle insurance!

What is the weather like during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally?

Check the weather regularly as your travel date approaches. Some years the rally has been hot, others cold.

Knowing how to stay cool in hot weather and how to ride in cold weather can make a world of difference. However, you can always buy weather-appropriate souvenirs!

What are the best rides during Sturgis?

Come for the rally but stay for the rides. Sturgis wouldn’t be Sturgis if it weren’t surrounded by legendary streets to satisfy your zest for life!

Mount Rushmore

It’s only an hour from Sturgis to Mt Rushmore, so give yourself the time! What you’ve seen on film and in photos pales in comparison to seeing the monument in real life.

As you get closer to it during your ride, you’ll see the mountain in bits and pieces, and the excitement builds the closer you get. But even that won’t prepare you enough for what it’s like to see Mt. Rushmore in person. It’s really impressive!

Eisenbergstrasse

The Iron Mountain Road is part of the Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway, US 16A. The drive begins between Keystone and Mt. Rushmore and ends east of the Custer State Park Wildlife Loop.

You should also make time for this drive, because nothing compares to seeing America’s natural beauty in person.

Spearfish Canyon

Accessible from exits 12 or 14 off I-90, Spearfish Canyon stretches over 22 miles of scenic curves that are sure to leave a lasting impression!

Vanocker Gorge

The 17-mile Vanocker Canyon is considered one of the most exhilarating drives in the Black Hills. Twists, turns and a descent plunge five miles in.

What else is there to do at Sturgis?

While the main event is the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally itself, there is no shortage of other great things to do during the rally.

But if you’re heading to one of the biggest motorcycle rallies in the world, why not take advantage of everything that’s on offer? Here are some of the additional highlights:

Pappy Hoel campsite

Visit Pappy Hoel campsite. Open daily from 9am to 7pm. Pappy Hoel will also offer pinstripes and tattoos and sell commemorative merch.

live music

Live music is an integral part of the daily events at the Rally and can be heard throughout the Black Hills area. Concerts are also scheduled most nights in conjunction with sales and parties. There are also several charity fundraisers that take place throughout the week, raising money for many local charities.

Some of this year’s highlights are:

Snoop Dog – Saturday 6th August 2022

Bush—Sunday, August 7, 2022

Rob Zombie – Monday 8th August 2022

Travis Tritt – Wednesday 10th August 2022

Mud Puddle – Friday 12th August 2022

Past artists have included Willie Nelson & Family, REO Speedwagon, Shinedown and many more.

mayoral ride

Jack Daniels and the City of Sturgis present their annual Sturgis Mayor’s Ride. They take a drive through the Black Hills, led by Sturgis Mayor Carstensen along with the Grand Marshal of the rally. You’ll stop by Mount Rushmore and then have lunch and enjoy a presentation with Mayor Carstensen.

You’ll receive a special souvenir package that includes a limited edition decanter signed by the mayor, a challenge coin and other goodies provided by the rally’s sponsors. All proceeds benefit local emergency services.

Act fast because now is a good time for a good cause and places are limited to 150 participants!

Where should I stay during the Sturgis Bike Rally?

There are many places to stay in Sturgis, but The Legendary Sturgis Buffalo Chip® offers arguably the most authentic rally experience. The venue hosted its first party in 1982 and 40 years later it still attracts riders from all over the world.

At the Buffalo Chip you get everything from 5 stages and free pancake breakfast to a 24-hour gas station and a real zip line over the amphitheater.

It’s like someone decided to give it their all TWICE!

Stay at a campsite?

Private bus services will take you from most campsites in the area. You can even buy discounted wristbands or pay in person if needed.

When you stay at the Buffalo Chip you can reserve an EZ-Camp package (electric or non-electric). Your campsite is ready for occupancy as soon as you arrive!

How can I bring my gear to Sturgis?

Don’t want to ride with all your gear? Not!

Ship it with UPS and for a fee of $15, the Spearfish UPS Store will ship your gear to Sturgis Buffalo Chip! Just make sure you call the UPS store in advance. Call (605) 717-8771 or email [email protected] to make arrangements.

Pro tip: time yourself so you get to the rally like your gear.

It is recommended that your packages get there no later than July 31st. You can pick up your gear between 8am and 5pm.

How do I get to Sturgis with my bike?

If for some reason you don’t want to go to Sturgis, there are many ways to pre-transport your bike and gear to the Sturgis Rally in closed transport.

Just make sure to do your research in advance as some services only ship from certain regions.

Where should I park during Sturgis?

There is free parking at the east end of Buffalo Chip.

Parking is of course limited during the rally. Parking violations are therefore strictly punished. In addition, there is no parking on Main Street or its side streets between 2:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. due to street cleaning.

Make sure you take the right precautions to ensure your bike doesn’t get stolen. Another reason to bring your motorcycle insurance information with you, as a failed attempt at theft could damage your bike.

Where are the best biker bars and food?

The internet is full of lists of the best biker food spots in Sturgis. And Yelp and TripAdvisor both have lots of reviews.

The Full Throttle Saloon has a reputation for being a must for any rally entrant. The Dungeon Bar and Loud American Roadhouse also draw their fair share of visitors, while The Knuckle Saloon, Jambonz Grill & Pub, Loud American RoadHouse, and One-Eyed Jack’s Saloon have all received high marks from top review sites.

What are additional helpful resources?

The official Sturgis Rally site on Harley-Davidson.com.

Visit the official Sturgis Motorcycle Rally website for all the latest information

For changing road conditions and weather updates, call toll-free 511 or visit Safe Travel USA for miles of construction updates and images.

Find out about South Dakota motorcycling laws here.

Future Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Dates: August 4-13, 2023 (83rd Anniversary) August 2-11, 2024 (84th Anniversary) August 1-10, 2025 (85th Anniversary)

Stay protected on the go with motorcycle insurance

Wrap up

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally – also known to fans as “The Rally” – is a must for motorcycle fans. Even passionate drivers who have witnessed the legendary event first hand would agree that there is nothing quite like it.

The rally will continue to be a talked about event for years to come and with so many incredible things to see and do around Sturgis, there’s not even a second.

If you’re a fan of open roads and motorcycling, then the Sturgis Rally is a must.

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A few decades ago, the prevailing sentiment among most bikers at the Sturgis Rally could be summed up as: ride a Harley or bang it.

In fact, some past rally-goers showed outright hostility towards foreign bikes. One tradition was to drop a foreign bike from a crane and drag it down Sturgis Main Street while Harley owners roared. Another event hosted by Harley-Davidson riders featured a bonfire where foreign motorcycles were stacked, burned and melted together amid cheering crowds.

But times – and rally roads – are changing. As foreign-made bicycles have increased in both quality and popularity, more and more riders are coming to Black Hills riding something other than Harley-Davidsons. And with the advent of other American-made motorcycles like the Indian and Victory, many Harley riders’ disdain for other brands seems to be waning.

Eli Gabriella from Loveland, Colorado is an avid Harley rider whose father even owns a 1936 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead passed down from his grandfather. Harleys, he said, are practically in his blood. But he said there’s no reason to disrespect other bikers if they ride a different brand.

“The way I see it, we’re all doing the same thing and taking the same chances,” he said. “So it doesn’t matter what you want to drive,”

As sales manager for Black Hills Powersports in Rapid City, Lyle Crowser spends most of his time selling or working on Yamahas and Kawasakis, both motorcycles made in Japan. Crowser, 59, is aware that Harley-Davidson bikes tend to dominate rallying, but he’s noticed more foreign bikes and trikes on the road in recent years.

“To me, there are many bikes that are just as good, if not better than Harley-Davidsons that cost a lot less money,” he said. “But Harley-Davidson has done an incredible job of making itself an iconic brand.”

In the past, disrespect for foreign motorcycles has reached outrageous proportions.

Rod Woodruff, owner of Buffalo Chip Campground, said Japanese motorcycles were a joke 30 years ago and looked with disdain. It was a burning contempt in the truest sense of the word.

“We stacked a lot of the little Japanese bikes and then lined up a jet-powered dragster, which was a jet engine, in front of them,” he said. “It would act like a blowtorch, so all the bikes would be melted together.”

In 1993, Big Ed Beckley, riding a Harley-Davidson, jumped over a pile of overheated motorcycle parts after two ramps were set up between the piles, he said.

Woodruff said nothing like this had happened in many years. As a biker and businessman, he wants the rally to be open to all motorcyclists, not just Harley riders. “We kept getting calls from people saying, ‘I don’t have a Harley, is it safe to go down there?'” he said. “So let’s stop that.”

Robin Willert, 63, who owns and runs a bike shop specializing in Harleys in Erie, Colorado, said he has missed four rallies since 1969. He recalls that a “bike drop” was a popular activity in the 1980s.

“That was when a foreign bike was being lifted up and down with a crane,” he said. “It was chained to the back of a Harley and dragged down Main Street while people cheered on the sidewalk.”

Woodruff, himself a Harley rider, said Harley-Davidson did an incredible job weaving its brand into the fabric of American motorcycle culture, let alone Sturgis rally culture.

“I don’t know if there’s another brand or product that’s been used more as a tattoo,” he said, laughing.

The opening of an Indian Motorcycle dealership in Sturgis, where new models were launched, also broke Harley dominance in the rally.

“Indian was the first bike here, and we believe this is now our rightful place here,” said Scott Wine, CEO of Polaris Industries, which owns Indian.

Of course, other motorcycles are growing in popularity as well, but a quick look at any parking lot full of motorcycles will tell you that Harley-Davidson is still the most popular brand in Sturgis. Woodruff said he estimates about 70 percent of the motorcyclists in the rally ride Harleys.

Nick Stolpman, 34, of Fargo, said he rode a 2007 Kawasaki Vulcan to the Sturgis motorcycle rally earlier this year. For the most part, he’s enjoyed his time in the Black Hills riding with other bikers. He said that while disdain for foreign motorcycles has subsided, it hasn’t entirely gone away.

“You see signs like ‘Jap Bikes Parking Here’ at some campgrounds, so maybe there’s a little disrespect from Harley riders,” Stolpman said. “But for the most part it’s about the ride, not what you ride. “

See how the world’s biggest biker party got started!

The very first Sturgis motorcycle rally was held on August 14, 1938. The event was organized by the town’s motorcycle club called Jackpine Gypsies, who bought and developed major tracks, hill climbs and field areas on which to host the rally.

“Pappy” Hoel – Founder of the Sturgis Rally!

It was Clarence Hoel or “Pappy” who is credited with founding the event when he bought a franchise of the Indian Motorcycle Company (a manufacturer of motorcycles in North Carolina) in Sturgis in 1936. After that he organized the Jackpine Gypsies.

In its early years, the Sturgis motorcycle rally focused on racing and stunts, testing participants’ various riding skills, courage, and stunt creativity. In the 1960s, rally action expanded to include hill climbs and motocross. Spectators saw more daring maneuvers like the half-mile race, ramp jumps, head-on car crashes and hull crashes, the reasons for the huge popularity of the event today. The only time the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally did not take place was in 1942, at the height of World War II.

Today, the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally continues to garner the support and participation of participants and motorcycle enthusiasts across the United States and in some parts of the world. In 2015, a record 739,000 attended the 75th anniversary of the rally, including entire families who traveled in their motorhomes and rode the last few miles to Sturgis on their motorbikes.

Nationwide – As motorcyclists across the country enjoy the ride at the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, the Colorado Department of Transportation, the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) and local law enforcement are calling on Colorado motorcyclists and drivers to travel safe and sober during the Sturgis Rally Enforcement period from August 4th to 15th. Enforcement aims to protect motorcyclists by removing disabled drivers and passengers from the road.

To date, there have been 82 motorcycle deaths on Colorado roads in 2022, compared to 78 deaths this time last year, a 5% increase. Also this year in Colorado there were 140 deaths involving a disabled driver, up 3% from this time last year.

The rally, in its 82nd year, invites thousands of cycling enthusiasts to head to Sturgis, South Dakota. With music festivals, pub crawls, competitions and more, attendees can expect a 10-day jaunt—as long as they do it safely. The 2020 Sturgis DUI enforcement resulted in 392 arrests, providing a stark reminder to always be sober behind the wheel or on the bike.

“From 2019 to 2021, we investigated more than 1,750 accidents that resulted in injury or death that were likely caused by impaired drivers,” Col. Matthew C, Packard, Chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “These figures increase in the warmer months, with July having the highest number of accidents. We may be past the July peak, but the decision to drive under the influence of alcohol occurs 365 days a year. It is up to you to obey the law and drive sober.”

The last DUI enforcement period in the summer strike resulted in 127 arrests in 71 participating agencies. The agencies with the highest number of arrests during the enforcement period were the Colorado Springs Police Department (24), the Denver Police Department (15), and the Lakewood Police Department (10).

“With more motorcycles on the road, everyone needs to take precautions and make sure they ride and ride safely,” said Darrell Lingk, CDOT’s Office of Transportation Safety Director. “We encourage riders to have fun but be smart. Motorcyclists are already vulnerable road users; do not increase your risk by consuming alcohol or cannabis.”

During high-visibility enforcement periods, motorists may see saturation patrols along with sobriety checkpoints and additional law enforcement officers on duty. For local law enforcement schedules, visit https://www.codot.gov/safety/traffic-safety-reporting-portal.

For local law enforcement and agency schedules, see codot.gov/safety/traffic-safety-reporting-portal. For annual data on Colorado disabled driving accidents and fatalities, see codot.gov/safety/traffic-safety/crash-data-management/fatal-crash-data. For trends in driving impairment lawsuits, drug toxicology results and other driving impairment data, visit the Colorado Driving Under the Influence Dashboard at ors.colorado.gov/ors-dui.

ABOUT THE HEAT IS ON

The CDOT Highway Safety Office provides resources to Colorado law enforcement agencies for enforcement, education, and awareness campaigns among disabled drivers. The ‘Heat Is On’ campaign runs throughout the year, with 16 specific enforcement periods for drivers with restricted vision, centered around national holidays and major public events. Enforcement periods may include sobriety checkpoints, saturation patrols, and additional on-duty law enforcement agencies dedicated to enforcing driving bans. Visit HeatIsOnColorado.com for more details about the campaign, including ban enforcement plans, arrests and safety tips. For more information on DUI laws in Colorado, visit NoDUIColorado.org. Visit codot.gov/safety to learn more about CDOT’s commitment to keeping Colorado’s roads safe, including enforcement goals for impaired driving, arrest dates and safety information.

STURGIS, S.D. (KELO) – Bikes line the streets of western KELOLAND as the 82nd Sturgis Motorcycle Rally begins. Hundreds of thousands of people will stream through the city during the 10-day rally.

From parades and live music to thousands of motorcycles cruising through downtown, today is the official opening day of the 82nd Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

You’ll find rally first-timers like Jon Granberg.

“This is my first rally at Sturgis. I came here from the Seattle area. Me and my brother-in-law drove about 1,400 miles to get here and spent a few days on the road. And it’s absolutely amazing to be here,” Grandberg said.

And you’ll find veteran rally-goers like Tom Foreid, who has been a regular at the big event for 15 years.

“I just really enjoy people. I mean I love the bikes, obviously it’s a lot of fun and the concerts are good. But I like the people of the Midwest and that’s what I really enjoy about this city and really about the area,” Foreid said.

One difference Foreid is noticing this year is the heat.

“It’s the warmest thing I’ve experienced in rallying, the days I’ve been here. I haven’t been to the whole rally every year, but at least five days and that’s warm, yesterday it was a hundred degrees,” said Foreid.

By drinking water and staying hydrated, these motorcyclists manage to enjoy opening day regardless of the weather.

“I’ve got water, I’ve got sunscreen and shirts on and things like that. The shutdown was a bit of an issue, but we managed. You just have to be careful with it,” Granberg said.

Monument Health is urging everyone to keep cool in the hot temperatures during the Sturgis Rally. By staying hydrated and sitting in the shade, you can avoid overheating or an even worse situation.

Annual motorcycle rally in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, USA

Black Bike Week, also known as Atlantic Beach Bikefest[2] and Black Bikers Week[1], is an annual motorcycle rally in the Myrtle Beach, South Carolina area that takes place over the Memorial Day weekend. Described by Jeffrey Gettleman as a “one-of-a-kind event” and “an exhibitionist’s paradise,” Black Bike Week is “all about the riding, styling and profiling,” according to Mayor Irene Armstrong of Atlantic Beach, South Carolina. [5]

It is the largest African American motorcycle rally in the United States.[6] Participation was variously stated as 350,000,[1] 375,000[6] and up to 400,000.[3][5] It ranks as the third or fourth largest motorcycle rally in the United States.[1] About 10-15 percent of motorcycle riders in the US are women,[7][8] while at major African American motorcycle rallies, such as Black Bike Week or the National Bikers Roundup, women make up almost half of the participants.[9]

From 1940 to 2008, Myrtle Beach also hosted a predominantly white motorcycle rally called Harley-Davidson Week, also known as the Carolina Harley-Davidson Dealer’s Association (CHDDA) Spring Rally. The two rallies have usually been run back-to-back, and due to unequal city policies such as different traffic rules and increased policing during Black Bike Week, both charges have been filed by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and individual rally participants, and the city government has filed suit and local businesses facing racial discrimination for differential treatment versus the black rally.[12] In 2002, Black Bike Week had 375,000 visitors, compared to 200,000 at Harley-Davidson Week the same year.

The city of Myrtle Beach used new ordinances to force the 2009 and 2010 motorcycle events, both black and white, out of the city, where they were welcomed by other communities and businesses, and bikers still came despite official efforts to discourage them.[ 3] After the 2010 motorcycle events, the South Carolina Supreme Court overturned the City of Myrtle Beach ordinance requiring all motorcyclists to wear helmets and four other ordinances.[13]

“Black Bike Week” may also refer to a side event of the Daytona Beach Bike Week motorcycle rally in Daytona Beach, Florida, held two months earlier in March. Like the South Carolina event, the Daytona rally has its roots in racial segregation, when blacks created their own side event after being excluded from the main white festival.[14][15]

Red and black Hayabusas in traffic at Black Bike Week Festival 2008

origin [edit]

Riders in traffic at Black Bike Week 2008

In the 1960s and 1970s many black motorcyclists visited Atlantic Beach, South Carolina, some rode Harley-Davidsons but also many Japanese Hondas, Kawasakis, Suzukis and Yamahas, which differentiated them from the white events along with racing as riders who did the Harley-Davidsons preferred.[3] During segregation, Atlantic Beach was the only beach in the South that allowed blacks.[5]

The Black Bike Week rally, originally called the Atlantic Beach Memorial Day BikeFest, was founded in Atlantic Beach in 1980 by the motorcycle club Flaming Knight Riders.[1][4] The first rally attracted about 100 participants.[3] Although one reason the Flaming Knight Riders worked with the City of Atlantic Beach to create the event was to raise money for the city, it was not actually licensed by Atlantic Beach and the city did not benefit financially . Instead, bikers have tended to congregate in Myrtle Beach rather than Atlantic Beach over the years.[3] In 1982, the Flaming Knight Riders were renamed the Carolina Knight Riders Motorcycle Club.[4]

By the 1990s, the event had grown to cover the entire Myrtle Beach or Grand Strand area.[5] In 2002, Atlantic Beach hired a public relations firm “to bring Atlantic Beach to the attention of the rest of the country, its uniqueness as a mostly black-sand beach city, and its potential as a vacation spot.” This was part of a larger effort to promote the motorcycle rally by the Bike Week Task Force, a group of Grand Strand area business owners and officials.[16]

The predominantly white rally dates back to May 1940 when a group of Harley-Davidson dealers formed the Piedmont Harley-Davidson Dealers Association, which became the Carolina Harley-Davidson Dealers Association as South Carolina dealers joined. The group’s first event was a trip to Ocean Drive in Myrtle Beach and included a drag race and a dirt track race and other celebrations. In the years that followed, the rally took place in Cherry Grove, Jacksonville and Wilmington, North Carolina before returning to Myrtle Beach. The 2009 event was held in New Bern, North Carolina, and the 2010 rally is scheduled for the same location, two weeks before Memorial Day weekend.

Atlantic Beach Bikefest Events[ edit ]

The city of Atlantic Beach hosted a street festival titled The Atlantic Beach Bikefest hosted by NDA Game Entertainment during Memorial Day Black Bike Week weekend.

Custom motorcycle manufacturers, parts suppliers and motorcycle dealers provide a focal point for activities during Bikefest, displaying their wares and using motorcycle stunt shows or other entertainment to attract crowds. The coming together and networking of motorcycle clubs[18] is also a big part of the activity, described by some participants as “an event that needs to be recognised”, where “clubs came out to represent their colors” and “mostly just for fun.”[19]

Previous efforts to centrally organize Bikefest events have failed, with activities remaining largely spontaneous.[5] Cruises and street parties thrive as people dance, hug, kiss, and hop on strangers’ bikes in the streets.[5] Vendors sold groceries, T-shirts, mix CDs, and offered wheelie rides on custom-made motorcycles.[20] Live entertainment includes nightly gospel and other music, as well as daily motorcycle stunt shows.[21]

Attendance at the 2010 Atlantic Beach Bikefest events appears to have increased from 2009, with a greater variety of entertainment, goods and services on offer. Atlantic Beach Town manager William Booker said that there are more families with children and that “we’ve got a lot more vendors this year, including more people selling bike parts and upgrades, which we’re really working on, more.” to get from it. People are literally putting their bikes to work these days, which hasn’t happened often in the past.”[20]

On December 1, 2014, a task force approved a 23-mile loop to allow for better traffic flow following problems at the 2014 event. During certain hours of Memorial Day weekend in 2015, Ocean Boulevard south of 29th Avenue North would be southbound only, allowing traffic on and off the street only at designated points, and the loop would be on Kings Highway, Harrelson Boulevard which becomes George Bishop Parkway, Waccamaw Boulevard which parallels US 501, Carolina Bays Parkway, Grissom Parkway, US 17 Bypass and 29th Avenue North.

Police said the loop worked while some bikers struggled to deal with the confusion and some felt unwelcome, describing the measures as an “overreaction”. The loop was used again in 2016,[27] and the same route was planned for 2017.[28] Some, feeling abused, wanted to boycott Myrtle Beach in 2017, while the city of Myrtle Beach responded that Bike Week was “not an organized event” and needed additional measures to make it safe.[29]

As of 2017, the event is called The Black Pearl Cultural Heritage and Bike Festival.[30]

For 2020, the Atlantic Beach Bikefest has been postponed and permanently canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[31]

On March 2, 2021, it was announced that the Atlantic Beach Bikefest was canceled for the second year in a row, according to city manager Benjamin Quattlebaum Jr. The decision to cancel the event was made during the City Council meeting on March 1, 2021. although there was the option of holding an event either on Labor Day or sometime later in the year depending on the effectiveness of the vaccines.[32][33]

On March 7, 2022, the City Council voted not to allow open carry during events. City documents indicated that the festival would resume in May 2022.[34]

Allegations of racial bias[edit]

Traffic holdup at Black Bike Week 2007

In 2003, a group of black motorcyclists and the South Carolina NAACP group sued the city of Myrtle Beach and several local businesses for alleged discrimination. The city has been accused of abusing traffic police and using excessive force against black motorcyclists by police. Many companies closed their doors or reduced hours during Black Bike Week, and 28 of them, including Red Lobster and Denny’s, were named in the lawsuit. A Baltimore, Maryland police officer who also rides a motorbike told the New York Times, “I saw it myself. When the white bikers come to Myrtle Beach, the city rolls out the red carpet. When the black riders come, they roll it right.” City officials said the much younger crowd and nearly double attendance at Black Bike Week justified the city’s different response to the two events.

In a May 25, 2003 New York Times article, Jeffrey Gettleman reported that a pattern was emerging in which black social and party events grew in size and then collapsed and quickly closed, particularly in the southern United States. Examples include Freaknik in Atlanta, Georgia, Spring Break in Biloxi, Mississippi, and various festivals in New Orleans, Louisiana, and Virginia Beach, Virginia.[5] Myrtle Beach Mayor Mark McBride said in 2003 that Black Bike Week crowds were “bigger and louder” despite that year’s white Harley rally recorded eight motorcycle traffic fatalities, while black’s Memorial Day rally three motorcycle fatalities were recorded.

In 2008, the NAACP issued a press release claiming success in resolving every state discrimination lawsuit it had filed in Myrtle Beach for complaints made during the 1999-2003 Bike Weeks against the city of Myrtle Beach and restaurants including Damon’s Oceanfront and Barefoot Landing. , J. Edward’s Great Ribs and Greg Norman’s Australian Grill, and the Yachtsman Resort Hotel.[35][36] In a settlement with the city, the police agreed to use the same traffic pattern on the city’s main boulevard for Black Bike Week as for Harley Bike Week.[35]

From 2005 to 2008, the NAACP conducted “Operation Bike Week Justice,” which operated a complaints hotline and teams monitored police treatment of African Americans and local business response, as well as monitoring traffic patterns at Friendly’s Ice Cream Corporation and Myrtle Beach Friends Boulevard LLC were sued by the NAACP in 2008 for allegedly shutting down their indoor operations and providing substandard field service during Black Bike Weeks from 2000-2005.

According to an NAACP lawsuit, the Yachtsman Resort Hotel required Black Bike Week guests to sign a Rule 34 guest agreement, prepay their hotel bill, and provide photo identification.[12] The hotel agreed to settle the case[12][38] and in addition to a $1.2 million payment, the hotel agreed to provide future rebates and policy changes, including annual anti-discrimination training for employees.[38] The settlement did not oblige the hotel to admit discrimination.[38]

In 2010, the NAACP issued a press release stating that it would continue to monitor police and local businesses for possible discrimination.[39]

On February 27, 2018, the NAACP and others sued the city of Myrtle Beach, alleging that its police officers treated African Americans differently and harshly.[40] On December 2, 2020, the NAACP suit went to court.[41] A jury ruled on December 10 that while the acts were “racially motivated,” they likely would have been the same had race not been a factor.[42]

Myrtle Beach Ban

Bicycle week 2008

In 2008, the Myrtle Beach City Council announced that it would no longer host motorcycle rallies,[2] and on September 23, 2008 approved a series of ordinances restricting motorcycle rallies. Fifteen laws were passed restricting muffler noise, requiring helmets within city limits, limiting parking to two bicycles per space, restricting loitering in parking lots, and more.[2] Despite this, the number of visitors to Black Bike Week 2009 fell only slightly. Vendors, hotels, biker groups and promoters attempted to plan events for Black Bike Week 2010 despite the Myrtle Beach government ban.

In anticipation of the 2010 Harley Bike Week rally, a local Harley-Davidson dealer said events for their Bike Week event would continue, but on a reduced schedule of just 5 days, May 11-16, during the Myrtle Beach Bike Week, LLC website says a full-length rally would be held May 7-16. Both sources say there would be no vendors within Myrtle Beach city limits during Harley Bike Week, and both encouraged attendees to boycott the city and patronize the out-of-city communities and businesses that supported Harley Bike Week. [43]

The Myrtle Beach Convention Center had stopped trying to find a replacement for the Carolina Harley-Davidson Dealers Association, which had relocated to Hard Rock Park.[44] The reason the Carolina Harley-Davidson Dealers Association event was moved to New Bern in 2009 was because Myrtle Beach “passed all these stupid laws, they said we ruined their May, so we talked about it and decided complying with them,” said Gene Lummus, past president of the association.[11]

Another planned rally, a Harley Owners Group gathering, would be held May 18-22, 2010 in North Myrtle Beach, approximately 15 miles (24 km) offshore from Myrtle Beach.

Helmet law abolished

On June 8, 2010, the South Carolina Supreme Court vacated a City of Myrtle Beach ordinance requiring all motorcyclists to wear helmets on the grounds that state law requiring helmets only for riders under the age of 21 was not enforced a city ordinance can be rescinded. 46] The court unanimously ruled that, in addition to the primacy of state law, the local ordinance caused undue confusion for motorists and that the city itself had invalidated its helmet ordinance and some other ordinances suppressing motorcycle rallies in a later amendment. The ruling went into effect immediately and required that pending subpoenas be dismissed, the records of those accused under the ordinance erased and any fines collected returned.[47]

The state Supreme Court on February 3, 2010 heard arguments in a lawsuit brought by two classes of plaintiffs seeking to overturn the ordinance.[46][48][49][50] One group of plaintiffs consisted of 49 motorcyclists who were subpoenaed for not wearing helmets in Myrtle Beach.[48] The second plaintiff was Business Owners Organized to Save Tourism (BOOST) along with South Carolina State Representative Thad Viers.[48] BOOST’s mission includes ending “the practice of ‘selective tourism,’ in which government agencies and/or organizations welcome some individual and group tourists but discourage others.”[51] Viers, a Republican representing Myrtle Beach, said: “There are certain things that cities can do and making their own traffic rules is not one of them. I believe the law and the constitution are on our side.”[48]

During the February hearing, Judge Don Beatty told Myrtle Beach attorney Mike Battle, “I realize the subject is tight here, but don’t pretend we don’t know what’s going on. We read. We all know why the city,” passed the ordinances[49][50] and questioned whether the intention of the law was not to promote safety but to restrict motorcycle rallies.[48] Judge Costa Pleicones told Viers that the city’s interest in regulating noise, obscene behavior and harassment is legitimate.[50]

In defense of the ordinance, the city’s court filings argued on six key counts, including that its helmet law is constitutional and does not conflict with state traffic regulations.[48] Myrtle Beach Attorney Mike Battle also argued that because state law is not silent on whether adults are required to wear helmets, and only themselves, cities have the freedom to make their own laws regarding those over the age of 21 applies to drivers under 21. Battle also argued that the benefits of the Helmet Act outweighed the inconveniences.[50]

The ruling sparked speculation that motorcyclists would return to Myrtle Beach in larger numbers. Some motorcycle rally participants immediately booked rooms for the next year, while others vowed never to return to Myrtle Beach, preferring instead to do business outside the city limits.[52]

The Myrtle Beach City Council is relaxing the noise ordinance

Months after Tom McGrath filed a lawsuit on behalf of business owners and residents challenging the city’s noise ordinance to prevent motorcycle rallies, the Myrtle Beach City Council raised the noise limit. Motor vehicles were limited to levels of 89 decibels while the engine was idling, but now motor vehicles can operate up to 99 decibels, closer to national standards.[53]

Filming 2014[edit]

During the 2014 Atlantic Beach Bikefest, three people were killed and one injured in gunfire at the Bermuda Sands Motel in Myrtle Beach about 15 miles from the rally.[54] Police said they usually see motorcycle accidents and minor offenses during the rally, but that violence was uncommon.[54]

Following the incidents, South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley said on April 30 that I will be speaking to Atlantic Beach’s elected officials.” Haley, who was in Conway to speak on hurricane safety, stressed that the incidents did not affect the state as The day before, Atlantic Beach Mayor Jake Evans said the event would not be canceled;[55] pointing out that the vast majority of bikers are good people, Chief Warren Gall of the Myrtle Beach Police Department believed however, that the shooting was connected to the rally.[56]

At a summit held September 22-23, attended by local officials and police from different areas, Haley said that while she still opposes the event, “they can continue to host Bikefest if they follow our rules follow.”[57]

See also[edit]

Urban Beach Week, including Memorial Day weekend.

Notes [edit]