Last June, more than 50,000 riders traveled to upstate New York for the Twentieth Annual Americade Rally held on the beautiful banks of Lake George. This multi-brand rally had everything that a bike enthusiast could want such as a parade, plenty of vendors, poker runs, and even royalty! That’s right: even a King and Queen of Americade! Ride On’s own Brian Jackson caught up with Americade Founder and Director, Bill Dutcher, who described the success of this event as “a pleasure and amazement.” Bill went on to say that what he had always envisioned was “a multi-brand rally that was quiet, civilized, and friendly,” and from what we have seen here, his vision has been fulfilled.

There were several worthwhile causes held at the event such as “Kiss a Pig for Literacy.” In fact, last year’s Queen of Americade even participated in the event and helped to raise more than $2,500! We also had an opportunity to speak with this year’s royalty, Bob Martin and Sue Giambrone. Bob said that becoming King or Queen of Americade was based on a two-step process: (1) riding ability and appearance, and (2) an interview in which the contestants are judged on speaking ability and composure. Sue said that she had only been riding for three years so her ascent to the “throne” was a rapid rise indeed! Oh and by the way, the King and Queen weren’t the only royalty in attendance because we even caught a glimpse of Santa Claus while we were there!

There were a variety of bikes there including touring bikes, sport bikes, cruisers, customs, and trikes, and their owners participated in riding on some of the most scenic roads that the U.S. has to offer. Bill Dutcher told us that the roads in this part of the country were old logging trails that were paved so they twist and turn through the mountains.

Also, while we were there, we witnessed an awesome demonstration given by BMW Motorcycles concerning their Anti-Lock Brake System—once you see how these sure-stopping bikes perform under the worst of conditions (on a prepared surface mixed with wet straw and detergent), an ABS system may be an option you would like to consider when purchasing your next motorcycle. There were also a number of vendors and manufacturers who brought plenty of “tools and toys” for everyone to see, and by the way, did we mention that there were some really cool bikes there?

Brian first spoke with Jay Seiler who told us a touching story about his touring bike with a “Space Program” motif. Jay said that in 1989 they met a child who had cancer, and during their visit the child told them that he had wanted to beat cancer and become an astronaut. So, through the help of the motorcycle community in South Florida, they became involved with the Children’s Cancer Caring Center connected with Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, and through their united efforts they created this motorcycle in honor of that child for the courage that he demonstrated in helping other children. Jay also added that for the last thirteen years that they have been riding this bike to benefit the Astronaut Memorial Foundation, as well as the Challenger Space Science Learning Centers.

Brian also found Marc Miller and his awesome 1999 Yamaha Road Star Silverado. This 1600 cc beast sports custom paint including some “fake” bullet holes that show that this bad boy could not even be stopped by “fake” speeding bullets! It truly was a sweet ride and one that definitely turns some heads! Thanks Marc for sharing your cruiser with us.
Well that’s about it for our trip to upstate New York and Americade. We had a great time while we were here and if you are interested in learning about next year’s event then give them a look on the web at www.tourexpo.com. Remember, until our next visit, “Keep the shiny side up and Ride On!”

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