Each week motorcycle rally’s seem to rise as the temperatures and if you attend one the smiles are contagious!
I wanted to bring your attention to the first ever tri-state H.O.G. rally which occurs July 24-27th in Spokane Valley, Washington.
No doubt you’ve seen on TV documentaries, rumor or cameo showcases in the media where a rally is deemed a magical place. It’s hard not to notice the spectacle of all things chrome and leather symbolizing the culture of Harley-Davidson. Motorcycle rally’s are an American icon and you can’t mistake the looks, the sound and the feel of a H.O.G rally!
Some of you will undoubtedly try and tell me that there is no new blood coming to the H.O.G. rally’s. That they’ve become nothing more than the equivalent of a state fair. Conventional, cliche, and common. And then I always seem to get an email or two reciting the Sturgis Rally statistic… the average age of a Sturgis attendee is about 52 and the only young people there are usually brought in as staff. So, take your eyes off of the bartender from Raleigh trying to earn college tuition for the year with the pronounced cleavage and take notice of all the AARP people behind her.
My advice is if you don’t have fun at rallies then, give up! Don’t go because whining is so 1999.
Like many of you, however, I enjoy motorcycle rallies. It’s that simple. The people, the energy, the passion, the spirit, the vendors and, of course, the motorcycles. It’s a great opportunity to have real conversations with other enthusiasts. And, I’m a sucker for information, for your story. I want to hear everybody’s story.
It’s tough to narrow down a list of things that I like about a motorcycle rally, but after the most important—wind in the face journey—here are a few:
People Watching—The cast of characters you see at motorcycle rallies are unlike people you’ll see at any other type of event, bar none. And the funny thing about it is this – they’re not just hardcore bikers. I’ve seen kids to grandparents, from plumbers and bus drivers to attorneys and Wall Street traders. From long hair and long beards to clean cut and clean shaven. From party-crazed to people that could be your next door neighbors.
What’s New—Rally’s are the place to find some of the newest bike products and gear. This is where manufacturers and distributors launch new merchandise, show off their stuff and try to start a buzz with their best customers. In addition you’re likely to get wind of a special place to take your bike for a “once-in-a-lifetime” journey, whether it’s a major ride or a side trip. And you’ll know it’s worth experiencing the ride for yourself because the people at rallies live for this stuff.
Showcase—Motorcycle rally’s are the ultimate place to showoff your bike. This is why many of us spend every free hour riding, cleaning, fine tuning or just staring at our motorcycle. Whether you ride the newest model or decades-old legend, rallies are where like-minded folks can talk about their rides and showoff the latest accessories.
Downtime Fun On The Road—Concerts featuring rock and country bands that I care about. Regional food and refreshments from the best local hangouts. Bike shows and parades. Biker gear and apparel from national and independent brands.
Passion—Riders who show up at a motorcycle rally are passionate about their bikes. It’s easy to sit down and talk for hours, sharing stories about the sights you’ve seen, the terrain you’ve covered, and the roads you’ve traveled.
What’s your favorite part of a motorcycle rally?
See you in Spokane Valley!
Photo courtesy of H.O.G.
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