Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
Since the first Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in 1938, the rally has become an annual event within the town of Sturgis, South Dakota, taking place during the month of August. Dates change slightly each year but the next few rallies are scheduled as followed: August 4-10, 2008; August 3-9, 2009; August 9-15, 2010. Sturgis Motorcycle Rally celebrated their 65th anniversary in 2005 with as many as 525,250 visitors and participants. Attendance goes up each year. In 1990 it was 400,000. Some other interesting factors to consider as numbers continue to increase are the amount of garbage, amount of marriages, and the amount of accidents and arrests. Compare 408 tons of garbage in 1990 to almost 800 tons in 2005. Marriage rates were down in 2005 at 109, but in 1990 there were 179 weddings. Organizers have done a great job at increasing safety restrictions. There were only 6 rally related deaths in 2005 compared to 11 in 1990. But as safe as people might be they seem to still be getting arrested. 2005 put 448 people in jail. 111 were put in jail in 1990. more info
There is so much going on during the rally week that it is worth
looking at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Events Schedule to make sure
you don't miss out on something. Check out who will be performing at
concerts, when there are organized riding tours of the area, the
various night activities at local bars, and of course the schedule for
races and bike events. Events are put on by a few different
organizations. You can contact the specific organization for tickets or
just buy them at the event gates. There are also many vendors who have
set up tents or booths for the week. Everything from food stands to
representatives from Harley Davidson and other large motorcycle
companies.
Many of the rally week events are held at the Jackpine Gypsies club.
The original Jackpine Gypsies track opened in 1963. The club welcomes
visitors every other weekend year round to watch races. During the
Sturgis Motorcycle Rally 12 events are held at their track like the ½
mile race, hill climb, tours, short track races, and motor-cross races.
A new motor-cross track was just added in 1996. Exit 30 or 32 from
Interstate 90 is the easiest way to access the short track, motor-cross
track, and hill climb area. They are a non-profit group and support
local organizations and social services with the moneys they bring in.
Another very important issue that riders need to consider is the safety
of their bike and gear. Motorcycles, typically newer and custom models,
are stolen every year. Make sure to lock your bike, to avoid parking
spots in dark areas, and to never leave any personal items such as
cameras and leathers on your bike. It is recommended to use a disc or
wheel lock instead of an ignition switch lock, as these are easily
disengaged. Properly protect your bike and avoid becoming a victim.
Currently OutsideOther pages you might find helpful:
Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is a popular event that takes place in Sturgis every summer.
