| Recently, Brian Jackson and the crew
had the chance to visit the big one: The 63 rd Annual Sturgis
Motorcycle Rally in Sturgis , South Dakota . Billed as the
world's largest event, more than 500,000 riders filed onto
Main Street in this South Dakota town for some riding, partying,
and looking at some bikes that one would simply have to see
to believe! There is no doubt that this year's event even
generated more excitement as it coincided with Harley-Davidson's
100 th birthday celebration.
Other than the main attraction of so many outrageous and
beautiful bikes in one place, the number of activities and
places to ride in that part of the country is tremendous!
First of all, during the rally itself there are literally
hundreds of vendors and shops featuring just about any type
of biker accessory or apparel imaginable; however, it's not
just a shopping trip. For many rallyists this destination
represents a personal and emotional experience-it's a pilgrimage
to some and a vacation to others. In fact, we even spoke
to some newlyweds who were married there as well as some
who chose to renew their vows during the celebration! The
feelings of many rallyists at this year's event were also
just as sincere with comments ranging from "overwhelming," to "more
family oriented." One thing is certain, the entire state
comes alive during this time of year and there are literally
biker attractions and stop-overs from Rapid City to Wyoming
.
Another part of the Sturgis experience is simply the ride
to arrive. We spoke to one woman who had ridden her H-D 883
all the way from Illinois -more than 800 miles! The surrounding
country is also a motivator for many riders and with scenery
such as Mount Rushmore , Crazy Horse, Deadwood, and the Devil's
Tower to see it makes the journey all the more inviting.
While there were so many bikes there to see and talk about,
it was a bit overwhelming; however, one bike stood out and
is definitely worth telling about. Brian met with Arthur
Erwin and his restored 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA. Arthur told
Brian that he purchased the bike more than 30 years ago and
that he had just finished the restoration. This World War
II vintage Harley features a 45 cubic inch engine and a three-speed
transmission complete with a foot clutch and hand shift.
Arthur even had some period correct saddlebags that had been
used in the Greek Army! At that point, Arthur climbed aboard
the bike and it started on the first kick! Pretty cool for
a bike more than 60 years old!
Finally, it was time for Brian to get in the wind and sitting
astride a Harley-Davidson V-Rod, he and some friends headed
out to Spearfish Canyon , one of the dozens of beautiful places
to ride. Another thing is for sure: the rally continues to
grow with more vendors and more people. As one rider told us, "You
won't believe it unless you come." If you would like more information
on this year's event, or if you would like to know more about
the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, give them a visit on the web
at www.sturgismotorcyclerally.com .
So, until our next ride remember, "Keep the shiny side up and
Ride On!"
Back to Episode CRN8012
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