Motorcycle Rallies: 10 Tips for First-Timers

Home » Motorcycle Rallies: 10 Tips for First-Timers

Is this the year you’re finally going? Have you heard all the stories, enjoyed all the photos, researched and planned how to make your trip to Daytona, Arizona Bike Week or Sturgis as much fun as possible? Any big bike rally has so much going on it can be easy to get overwhelmed. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of any rally.

  1. Make travel plans early. If you’re shipping a motorcycle, make arrangements well in advance. Call your motorcycle shipping company well ahead of time so you’ll know how long you’ll be without your bike pre- and post-rally.
  2. Make a game plan for the week ahead of time. One of the big complaints you’ll hear from new attendees is that they missed one of the big events or signature rides.  All the big rallies have websites that list the entertainment and events. Sketch out a rough list of who you really want to see and where you want to be. You can always change your mind, but you won’t miss anything accidentally.
  3. Find a place to stay. The rally websites will have a list of hotels, campgrounds and private homes available for rent. You may want to read reviews to see if your choice will be a quiet place to crash or a non-stop party!
  4. Get there early for concerts. Good seats (or standing room) at big shows will go fast. Stake out your spot early to get the best view.
  5. Get a tune-up. You don’t want to spend any time tracking down a mechanic or a part when there is partying to be done.
  6. Ask other riders for tips. If you can’t travel with an experienced rally-er, join the event’s Facebook page and get the inside scoop. People are usually happy to help.
  7. Don’t drink and ride. Nothing will spoil the fun faster than spending the week in the county jail, or worse, hurting yourself or someone else.
  8. Cash is king. Take as much cash as you’re comfortable carrying. ATMs can run out of money, and you’ll likely pay a good fee for using them.
  9. Don’t forget your camera. Rallies have so much going on that you’ll definitely want to share the experience with friends. Stories and pictures can last a lifetime.
  10. Be safe. Make sure to park your bike in well-lit, busy areas, and use a fork lock or other locking systems.  Like it or not, thieves can be at any rally. And of course, never store the bike’s registration with the bike – keep it in your wallet.

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