Legendary motorcycle rallies: Must-see, do and ride

Every year, the Foremost^® Team experiences the country's most legendary motorcycle rallies. If you're planning a trip to one of these stellar biker events, here are a few tips we've put together to help you make the most of your adventure.

Bike Week in Daytona

Daytona Beach, FL | March

Don't Miss: Burning Bike. Taking place at the Fast Lane Campground in DeLand, FL, this unique event features stunt shows, live music and the pièce de résistance: a 30-foot wooden motorcycle that's lit on fire at the end of the day. Talk about a biker bonfire!

Must-Ride: Ormond Scenic Loop (aka The Loop). Over 20 miles of smooth twists and turns along the ocean and Tomoka River, shaded by a pristine live oak canopy.

Pro-Tip: Bustling with spring breakers and bike enthusiasts, Daytona Beach is BUSY! Be patient. If you're planning to leave the Main Street scene, work in extra time for heavy traffic.

Rolling Thunder Run

Washington, D.C. | May (Memorial Day Weekend)

Don't Miss: Obviously, the Run itself is a must-do, but there are many other moving, meaningful events. We recommend the wreath-laying ceremonies that take place throughout the National Mall and at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Must-Ride: The Run. You begin in the Pentagon parking lot and ride though the Mall. It's an honor to ride in respect and support of all who serve in the military, and it's an experience you'll never forget.

Pro-Tip: Bring plenty of food and water to the Run, and prepare for a long day. Bikers begin to gather at the Pentagon at 7 a.m., and the Run begins at noon. Depending on how early you arrive, you may not finish the ride until 5 p.m. You'll be exhausted, but it's absolutely worth it.

Americade

Lake George, NY | June

Don't Miss: The Ride for Kids. It's a charity ride that begins with a parade-like kickoff and leads to an hour-long lakeside cruise, including a police escort and a delicious BBQ lunch. Most importantly, this event raises funds for cancer research!

Must-Ride: Americade offers a variety of guided rides with stunning destinations. We recommend the New York and Vermont Covered Bridge Ride, the Diamond Tour, and the Adventurer Ride through the Adirondack Mountains.

Pro-Tip: Spend some time in the Expo area. There are tons of great vendors, stunt shows and a massive demo area where you can test ride new motorcycles and chat with the experts.

Motorcycle Week in Laconia

Laconia, NH | June

Don't Miss: Weirs Beach…the heart and soul of Motorcycle Week! It's a great place to hang out in between rides. You can visit the vendors, get food and enjoy some quality people watching.

Must-Ride: Mt. Washington (if you dare). It's a thrilling ride to the highest peak in the Northeast (6,288 feet!) As you ascend, you'll encounter panoramic views and four different climate zones.

Pro-Tip: The road up Mt. Washington is motorcycles-only on select days during the Ride to the Sky events, so be sure to plan accordingly. Bring extra layers (it's cold up there!), and on your way down, remember to shift to a lower gear instead of relying on your brakes to slow down.

Motorcycle Rally in Sturgis

Sturgis, SD | August

Don't Miss: The rally spills over into the town of Deadwood, and it's a must-see. You'll feel like a Wild West legend as you ride down the cobblestone Main Street. Take part in the Legends Ride, which includes a cruise through the Black Hills and a custom motorcycle auction. In the evening, head back to Sturgis to catch a concert at the Buffalo Chip!

Must-Ride: Too many to mention! One of our absolute favorites is Iron Mountain Road. Bookended by Mt. Rushmore National Memorial and Custer State Park, this insanely beautiful ride takes you on an unforgettable tour of the Black Hills. Also check out: Needles Highway, Spearfish Canyon, Devils Tower and the Badlands.

Pro-Tip: There's an abundance of long, scenic rides at Sturgis. For most of them, know that you'll be on the road for at least three or four hours. Always fuel up before going out, and bring food and water to stay energized while you're exploring.

Bikes, Blues & BBQ

Fayetteville, AR | September

Don't Miss: Not eating barbeque would be a crime! Treat yourself to some of the best the South has to offer at the AR State Championship BBQ Competition or the People's Choice Tasting Contest.

Must-Ride: BBB is crawling with fantastic rides! Wherever you go, prepare to be enamored by the beautiful Ozarks. Check out the Pig Trail, the Roaring River Ride and the Buffalo River Area.

Pro-Tip: If you go on the Hub Ride or visit the Buffalo River Area, you may see some elk. Your chances of spotting them increase if you go in the early morning or evening!

Lastly, every rally has a Main Street that's rumbling with excitement. Make it your first stop. It's the perfect place to grab a bite, admire awesome bikes, hear some good tunes and reconnect with old friends.

We hope you're able to cross a few of these top-notch rallies off your bucket list this year. Live it up and enjoy the ride!

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