Bison once wandered freely across the plains of South Dakota. Indian warriors hunted the beasts for their preservation followed by their tribes. All are almost gone now but have been replaced by modern day Indians, Harleys and an abundance of foreign motors as modern-day iron horses. In the fall of each year, in early August, scores of motorcycle aficionados swarm into town for the Sturgis Motorcycle Rallye.
The Sturgis Rally legacy embryo appeared in 1938 when local motorcycle shop owner, J.C. "Pappy" Hoeland and friends, happened upon the idea of having a motorcycle race and stunt competition. The initial event was comprised of 19 racers at a short dirt track and several risky events. Hoeland and acquaintances chose, through little reasoning, board-wall crashes, ramp jumps and head-on collisions with automobiles. A few local businesses provided the $500 money won or given as a prize. Each year thereafter, the event grew as participants and observers heard of the coming rallye. World War Two caused the cancellation for a few years as many motorcycling young men were chosen to fight a war.
With the end of World War Two, the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally event began crowing with the quickly growing popularity of the motorcycling lifestyle. Thousands of motorcyclists were in attendance in the city park held at the 1965 rally. As the 80's rolled around, attendance climbed by the thousands. The 50th Anniversary attracted near 400 thousand bikers to the event. The 1999 event saw 275,000 − 290,000 people from worldwide. The grandest rally of all came in 2000 with the 60th Anniversary with attendees surpassing 633 thousand.
Any motorcycle enthusiast that loves their bike will find attending rallies an utmost delight. The triple advanatage of providing enjoyment of you motorcycle, getting to know other riders that can share experiences and giving a break for daily drudgery. Such an event is the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally held annually in Sturgis South Dakota. Held initially in 1938, it continued to grow in size each year. Early on, the attraction was a spectacular motorcycle race that attracted top riders from everywhere. It was canceled in 1944 and 1945 due to fuel shortages and, of course, the war.
ZZ Top's management called the Legendary Buffalo Chip to book the band for the 2010 event. Celebrating their 40 years in music, they commented to the manager that the Buffalo Chip's audience was the reason the Sturgis even was chosen. "Your people are our people," is what they told Rod Woodruff, manager and owner of the campground .
ZZ Top's performance will be entertainment for the 4th Annual Legends Ride for charity. The 2009 ride raised over sixty thousand dollars for the Black Hills Childrens Home Society and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum. It also featured performances by Toby Keith and Lita Ford. The 2010 Sturgis Motorcycle Rallye planners are expecting an even better event next year.
If you plan to attend the next rallye, keep in mind that every state has particular traffic laws to follow and this applies even to motorcycles. When heading to Sturgis, it is imperative you respect these laws and regulations. These rules and laws are strictly enforced ... you don’t want to spoil your trip by facing a serious fine.
All motorcycles are required to have a minimum of one headlight and a maximum of two. One tail light must be in working condition. Handle bars must not be higher than the shoulders of the operator. Helmets are compulsory for riders and passengers under 18 years of age. They are strongly encouraged for all riders and passengers.
Adequate eye protection is demanded for each individual on a motorcycle, whether rider or a passenger. Eye protection may not be tinted after dark. Noise ordinances are strictly enforced. Motorcycle operators much have a valid license from their home state. If not, motorcycles will be confiscated and rider cited.
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is a yearly tradition for many motorcycle owners. Many of them have made it a family tradition with fathers, sons, brothers, and even grandfathers all traveling together. If you own a motorcycle and enjoy attending rallies, then you should plan to attend the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally August next year. Remember, thousands of people attend each year and it is important for you to plan early and to schedule your accommodations. As many as 500 thousand bikers find their way to Sturgis each year to enjoy their motorcycle lifestyle.
The planning being completed for 2010 and details will be advertised as they are ready. Again, thanks to the sponsors, all 100% of the contributions will support the Black Hills Children’s Home Society and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame. You are invited to the Sturgis’ premier celebrity-charity event, the 2010 Legends Ride!
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