The Progressive International Motorcycle Show rolled into Long Beach, California for its 3rd stop of a 12 stop 2011/2012 tour, bringing with it all the latest bikes and products in the motorcycle industry.  Giant displays from all of the world’s motorcycle manufacturers filled the Long Beach Convention Center along with booths displaying and selling all the latest motorcycle products, seminars and informational sessions, and of course the custom bikes from builders around the world scattered through the aisles.

After a couple of really tough years in the motorcycle industry - with sales dropping to almost half of what they were a few years ago - it was great to see all of the motorcycle manufacturers out in full force and the return of a few who were noticeably missing from the major motorcycle shows last year.   From what I could see this was also the biggest crowd at the show in quite a while.  I’m sure the beautiful California weather we had over the weekend helped, because as we pulled into the free motorcycle parking around 11:00 am, the lot was almost full to capacity with 1000’s of bikes.

One of the great things about the Progressive Int’l Motorcycle Shows is that everyone can enjoy the show - both riders and those who wished they rode - from families bringing the young ones for the thrill of sitting on a motorcycle for the first time, to long distance endurance riders sharing their stories of their ride through Costa Rica, to road worn bikers proudly displaying their clubs colors.   One thing they all had in common was their love for motorcycles.
 
As you pass through the manufacturers’ section of the show you can check out all of the new models from BMW, Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, Triumph, Victory, Yamaha and more… including a few manufacturers I had never even heard of.   It’s a great chance to get a close look at EVERY type of bike out there, sit on them, play with all of the accessories and even talk to the factory engineers.  I was totally amazed at the features and accessories that are available on the big touring bikes these days - maybe they’re not my style, but for those who are into those bikes there is almost nothing you could think of that you can’t get on one of today’s motorcycles.  Another thing that really impressed me was the production sport bikes available today and their HP to weight ratio.  Being an old racer myself from way back when bikes had 100HP and weighed about the same as the Road King I ride today…  I’m not sure I would even get on one of these machines!   But if its speed you’re looking for, there was plenty to be found.

Just past the manufacturers displays were the booths where retailers and manufacturers displayed all of the latest motorcycle products and accessories.  Everything from the latest motorcycle tire technology, to all of the latest electronic gizmos and gadgets were on display to try and to buy.  And, of course we stopped by to say hi to the CycleFish Business Members at the show selling their products:  Andrea from Wrapter Hair Wraps; and Tom with Extreme Cycle Radio.  Extreme Cycle Radio will be attending all of the remaining Int’l Motorcycle Shows throughout the U.S., so be sure to stop by and say hi!

And finally filling out the show were seminars on basic riding, bike maintenance, long-distance touring, appropriate gear and talks from some of the best known riders in the industry — including two of the world’s fastest women, Leslie Porterfield and Melissa Paris.

Overall this year’s Progressive Motorcycle Show was one of the best in recent years.  If you get the chance to attend one in your area, we highly recommend it.

Upcoming Progressive International Motorcycle Shows...
(click show location for details)

• Seattle, WA - Dec 16 - 18
• Novi, MI - Jan 6 - 8
  
• Washington, DC - Jan 13 - 15
  
• New York, NY - Jan 20 - 22
  
• Cleveland, OH - Jan 27 - 29
  
• Minneapolis, MN - Feb 3 - 5
  
• Chicago, IL - Feb 10 - 12
  
• Charlotte, NC - Feb 24 - 26
  
• Daytona Beach, FL - Mar 14 - 17
  

Click Here to view our pictures from the Long Beach Progressive International Motorcycle Show

Knowing that we would be heading east right through the Mojave Desert in the middle of July, we decided to get an EARLY start and hit the road at 4:00am on Thursday morning.  We had just a short ride through the canyon to Norco where we met up with Terry (wheels) & Cheryl.  After a quick hello we were on the road in what was fairly cool weather (high 50s) as we headed up over the pass on I-15.  After a quick stop in Barstow for breakfast we could already feel it getting hotter by the minute and hit the road rolling as fast as possible to get through the desert and into the Arizona high country before early afternoon.  Once we got through Kingman we were at 3,300 feet and climbing with absolutely beautiful riding weather.

We exited the main highway in Flagstaff with about 35 miles left to the venue at Mormon Lake.  Since this was our first time at Too Broke for Sturgis we were excited to see what it was going to be like, and since we were getting there the day before the rally officially started, we were looking forward to getting a really good camping spot.   We approached the Mormon Lake Resort and right away liked what we saw... lots of trees in the camping area to shade you from the Arizona sun, and lots of open area for games, concerts, etc.  But as for being one of the first there - that wasn't the case at all.  There were already around 500 people who had set up camp - some as early as Monday.  We still found a nice shady spot - a little further from the action then we had planned - but still comfortable and amongst some great people.  Another thing that was noticeably missing was A LAKE.  I just assumed that a venue with the name Mormon Lake Resort would have a lake.

After we set up camp, hung the CycleFish banner, and met our neighbors, it was time for a store run.  Another great thing about this venue is they have a Country Store, Bar and Cafe right there on site.  When we got to the store we finally found the lake known as Mormon Lake, which was actually the size of a community swimming pool.  We also found some buffalo!  Now if any of you have followed our other trip reports, you know that Laura's biggest frustration is that in all our trips to Sturgis and other rallies, she has never seen a buffalo.  So even though these were behind a fence and each had a name, Laura finally saw buffalo!!!

We returned from our store run and as we pulled up to our camp site it was surrounded with emergency vehicles and paramedics.  Apparently one of our neighbors (totally sober) had gotten of his bike without putting the kickstand down.  The bike had fallen on him in such a way that it severely broke his leg and he had to be air-lifted out.  Once that was all over we were finally able to relax in our campsite and enjoy a few cold beers and some snacks.  We took a walk through the vendor area and introduced ourselves and CycleFish to all of the vendors, and got to meet MustangSally - a new member here on CycleFish - who was vending at the event.  It was now around 9:00pm and since we started our ride at 4:00am it was time to hit the sack.

Friday morning the sun was rising on our tent so we tossed around a bit and finally got up, but surprisingly there were only two other people awake and moving in our area... that's because it was 5:30AM!!!  Since they don't set the clocks ahead for daylight savings time in Arizona, the sun comes up REALLY early in the summer time!!!  Oh well, at least the vendor selling coffee was already up too.

After our coffee Terry, Cheryl, Laura and I, along with our new friends from the next campsite - Mike and Kat - set out on a ride through the canyons just outside of Sedona.  Definitely some great riding and beautiful scenery in that area.  We stopped for lunch and picked up a souvenir for our son.  Since we really didn't know exactly where we were, we decided to turn around and take the same route back.

As soon as we got back to camp our good friends Tony (08streetglide), Danielle, and their daughter Ashley wandered in to say hi. Somehow they got there that day and wound up with a camping spot right in the middle of all the action on the main road. We decided to take the CycleFish banner over there and made that our spot for when we just wanted to sit around and hang out.  We took another walk through the vendors, which there were now plenty of - both for products and food - and then we headed over to the people games.  Laura and Cheryl both entered the helmet toss - sorry to say neither one of them fared very well.  After that Danielle and Ashley entered the tattoo contest, but again, no winners in our group. 

The games and contests went into the early evening and now it was time for our good friend Charlie Brechtel and his band to take the stage. For the first song the band was joined on stage by Carey Slade who performed her song "Too Broke for Sturgis".  Then it was time for the Charlie Brechtel Band to Rock the Crowd for the next 3 or 4 hours.  Now they don't call him "Good Time Charlie" for nothing... It only took a couple of songs before the lovely ladies from the crowd joined him on stage removing articles of clothing as they danced to the music.  Laura and I enjoyed the show and the music as we danced with the rest of the crowd that stayed on their feet through the entire first set.  As Charlie left the stage he was kind enough to mention CycleFish and invite me to the stage to say a few words about CycleFish.  Wish I would have known that before all the beers and Jack - then I might be able to tell you what I said!

Durning the band break Laura and I went over and talked with Charlie for a bit and then headed back to the tent to call it a night.  As we dozed off we could hear the band take the stage and start their second set and the sound of more bikes rolling in.  Just before midnight I was awakened by the sound of helicopters and what seemed to be an excessive amount of light for that time of night.  I got up and as I headed for the porta-potty I ran into Terry who told me about the tragic chain of events that had just taken place.  Apparently there was a shooting right there in the campground (about 100 yards from where we were) and from what he knew at the time three people were dead and one was critically wounded.  After we realized that we were not going to learn anything else that night, and all seemed to be under control we went back to sleep.

In the morning as Laura and I walked to the showers we heard at least 4 or 5 different versions as to what had happened, but no one seemed to know for sure.  On our way back from the showers we saw most people breaking camp and packing up.  We stopped by Tony & Danielle’s camp and they confirmed that the event was being shut down and we all had to leave.  As we packed up our stuff we heard even more versions of what had happened, but none consistent with anything else we heard.  Since I didn't witness it myself, I am not even going to attempt to tell you what happened.  You can read what was reported by the news HERE.

Our prayers go out to all those who were affected by this senseless tragedy.

Now since we weren’t planning on leaving until Sunday, I wasn't in the best condition to break camp, pack up and ride.  I had drank quite a bit the night before, and by time we were told to leave it was already 10:00am and getting hot.  Plus I knew that leaving now would mean I would be riding across the Mojave Desert right in the middle of the day.  Oh well we did what we had to do and except for Laura almost passing out in the 110° weather coming across a part of the desert where there was no shade to stop in for a 100 miles or so, we made it home.

We certainly appreciate the hospitality we received from ABATE of Arizona and hope this isolated incident does not tarnish the name of this great organization or the Too Broke for Sturgis Rally.

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Here is a message we were asked to pass along...

On Behalf of ABATE of Arizona, I would like to send our deepest condolences to the victims and the victims' families and friends involved in the tragic chain of events this past weekend. We will hold them in our thoughts and prayers. This was a tragic but isolated incident that has profoundly affected us all. I would like to thank everyone for their help and cooperation during this trying time. We will continue to cooperate with law enforcement during this investigation.

With much respect,

Margie Ferrucci
State President
ABATE of Arizona

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story by Lucky

2011 Too Broke for Sturgis Rally Pictures

It was a perfect sunny Southern California day for the Cook's Corner Ladies Who Ride event to celebrate women and raise awareness for the fight against breast cancer.  And despite the name "Ladies Who Ride", guys - this was the place to be!!!

I can't tell you about the pre-ride at Fullerton Harley-Davidson, or the ride down to Cook's Corner because I got a late start and just headed right over to Cook's (a whopping 5 miles from my house).  As I rode down El Toro Rd I knew it was going to be a good event because the number of bikes to cars switched in favor of bikes the closer I got to the canyon.   Now we all know on any given Sunday there will be 100+ bikes outside of Cook's Corner, but I had never seen it anything like this.  As soon as I passed that last traffic light on El Toro Rd the bikes were already lining both sides of the street, the main lot and all of the overflow lots were full, and the bikes were lining the street for 100s of yards past the bar.  So I did what any lazy guy would do and rode back and forth until someone parked close pulled out so I wouldn't have to walk too far!

As I walked up though the crowd in the parking lot wandering around looking at the 100s of bikes, I could already hear the familiar voice of Disco (Tom Loveland of Fullerton Harley-Davidson) coming over the p.a. system getting the crowd going and letting everyone know about all the events that would be happening throughout the day.  Once inside I found a crowd that was probably the biggest crowd I had ever seen at Cook's Corner, which wasn't all that surprising since this was for a great cause, and Cook's Corner is undisputedly the most popular Biker Bar in Southern California.  Then the panic set in - with all these people, how long is it going to take to get a beer?!?!  But no problem there... All three bars were open and well staffed and servers wandering the crowd outside.  You can always count on Rhonda to make sure everything is taken care of.  I'm not sure what Rhonda's official title is at Cook's Corner, but I think "Goddess of Getting Things Done" fits well!  When I asked Rhonda how many people were there, she looked at the crowd, did some quick math in her head, and told me her best estimate was just a little over sh!t load.

Disco announced Liquerbachs - a GREAT So Cal local band - who took the stage playing some good old time rock n' roll.  As the band played I wandered through the crowd meeting a lot of our CycleFish members and telling everyone else about CycleFish.  One of my favorite things to do is wander through the crowd just checking out the diverse group of bikers that come to these events.  Everyone from retired school teachers riding out on their weekend machines, to patch wearing club members - all coming out to support a great cause.

After a few sets from the band, Disco and Rhonda took the stage to raffle off some of the fantastic prizes donated by the sponsors of the event (of course there was no need for me to even pull out my tickets since I have never won a damn thing in the hundreds of these events I have attended).  Immediately following the raffle the contests were set to begin!  Now since this was billed as Ladies Who Ride, it was only appropriate that the events start with something for the ladies... A male hard body contest!  A group of guys ranging from the 20-something body builders to the 60-something retired Marine took the stage strutting their stuff for the ladies.  Some showing a little more skin than others and even collecting a few tips from the more assertive ladies!  I thought about jumping on stage myself, because nothing says sexy more than a beer belly and a biker tan! Then another treat for the ladies as two male strippers took the stage.

Now something for all the guys that showed up to support Breasts (I mean Breast Cancer), it was time for the ladies wet t-shirt contest.  As Rhonda and Disco called the ladies to the stage, the crowd in front of the stage began to build (imagine that).  Six or seven of Southern California's finest ladies took to the stage as Disco and the male strippers wet them down one by one.  The shirts didn't last long but that certainly didn't stop Disco from wetting them down!  I'm sure glad it wasn't up to me to pick the winner, because based on the crowd reaction for each of the girls, they were all winners.

After the contests there were a few more raffles and auctions, Liquerbachs finished up their ALL day performance on the outdoor stage and Heartless took to the inside stage to keep the party going into the night.

Thanks to Cook's Corner and all of the generous sponsors for making this another great event.

Proceeds will go to the Cordelia Knott Wellness Foundation.  The benefit will help raise awareness and funds for breast cancer!

story by Lucky

Click for Pictures from the Event!

Have you ever been to a motorcycle swap meet?  I mean a real old fashion motorcycle swap meet?  If not and you are looking for parts, any parts, or just looking for a way to spend the day wandering around and meeting some really interesting people, then you need to find a true motorcycle swap meet in your area and check it out. 

So what exactly is a motorcycle swap meet?  Well that's a real good question and the answer is broad with so many different types of motorcycle swap meets out there.  Swap meets come in all sizes and styles, from large organized motorcycle swap meets held in fairgrounds or exposition centers, to small one time swap meets help at the local VFW, or at the last stop of a poker run.  No matter what the size or frequency, the two things all true motorcycle swap meets have in common are: lots of used parts; and really good deals.  You will still find some local vendors selling new stuff at swap meets, but they will be just that, locals selling their wares, not a multi-million dollar online parts company with a semi-truck and a booth bigger than your house.

Going to a motorcycle swap meet is more of an experience than a shopping trip.  Most of the time you don't even know what your going there to buy, but you will know it as soon as you see it.  But if you are looking for a specific part, especially an old hard to find part, this would be the place to go.  At the scheduled swap meets, most of the sellers are there every month and know all the other sellers, and can tell you just who may have your part, or who can get it for you.  The greatest thing is none of the parts have a price tag, or even a price for that matter - Haggling is acceptable, and pretty much expected on every purchase.

The swap meet can also be like a treasure hunt for some really cool motorcycle memoribilia.  You can find old biker magazines, old photographs, a street sign from Sturgis, and a whole bunch of stuff you have absolutely no need for, but will buy anyway.

And if your in the market for advice on a build project, or something you want to do to your bike...you're in the right place.  Most of the guys you see selling motorcycle frames they welded in their garage, or a ton of parts that were made before you were born, have built, taken apart, and put back together more motorcycles then the recent MMI graduate at your local dealer has even seen.  Just be prepared to pull up a chair and light up a cigar, because he's going to share all of his 30 years of bike building experience with you.

The Bike Show is another feature of a lot of motorcycle swap meets these days.  Your probably not going to see any of the big buck customs with there own effect lighting and rotating stands like you would at the Easyriders Bike Show, but what you will find is some great motorcycles that were built and riden in by thier owners.  They will range from bikes that were built from gound up with a hand made frame and tins that were pounded with a hammer on a block of wood, to the failry stock Softail with some touches of chrome and a picutre of their daughter painted on the tank.  One thing that almost everyone will have in common - the owner RIDES IT!

Like I said in the beginning, there are all differnet types and sizes of motorcycle swap meets, some big and organized with lots of advertising, some a little smaller that you have to find out about through word of mouth, but I can assure you there is probably one somewhere near you.  To help you find one, we have been working real hard to locate as many as we can and post them in the event calendar here on Cyclefish.  Click Here to See All Motorcycle Swap Meets in our Calendar.  And if you know of one in your area that we don't have listed, let us know and we'll get it in there.

T'is the Season to be Jolly, and nothing will make you more jolly then participating in a toy run on your motorcycle with hundreds of other generous bikers.  There are tens of thousands of kids out there who will not know the excitement of opening a new toy this Holiday Season without a little help from others. And who better to help than the motorcycle community, one of the most giving groups around. There are a variety of reasons why these children need our help; some come from poverty strickened families, some have no family at all, and others are spending their Holiday in the hospital, and for many of them it is one of many Holidays they will spend in the hospital. 

Yes these are tough times for many of us, but it doesn't take much to bring a smile to the face of these kids.  Nothing beats the excitement on a child's face when hundreds of leather-clad bikers show up with hundreds of toys! I have participated in many Toy Runs, and the enjoyment never wears off.  Whether you have participated in a toy run before, or this is your first year, here are a couple of tips to help you out.

Pick A Toy Run - Once you have picked a Toy Run to participate in, do a little research about who the toys will be for. Many times, runs will focus on a certain age group of children that are in need. Once you have identified the age range of the children, query whether this particular organization has any particular wants or needs requested. If not, go and have fun shopping! Keep in mind that stuffed animals are usually plentiful at these runs, think outside the box and find activity games, board games, action figures, video games, etc. Every year we do a couple runs to the local Children's Hospital. They actually request items that can be sanitized by wiping and stuffed animals are not the most desirable toy in that instance!

Getting ready for the Toy Run - Of course, make sure your bike is in excellent mechanical condition. Make sure all your riding gear is ready as well. Next you need to figure out how and where to carry your toy. After a few toy runs you will see some very creative people out there! Toys can obviously always be put in saddle bags, however if they do not fit there or you do not have them, you have a unique problem. I have see many people bungee toys to a luggage rack, front of the bike or even in the passenger seat. Whatever you do, make sure wherever you mount the toy, that it is secure and safe for you to operate your bike.

Remember why all the bikers are at that ride...it is for the kids! The kids truly love seeing all the bikes and the bikers. Being in the motorcycle community, I am proud to say I ride with some of the most kind and caring people in the world. Thank you bikers for all that you do...have a great time and ride safe!

With all those tubes and monitors hooked up, how often do you think this little guy gets to smile like that?

To find a Toy Run in your area, be sure to check our

MotorcycleEvent Calendar.

And if you are having a Toy Run, be sure to post it in our Calendar, or let us know about it, and we will post it for you!

October 8th, 2009

Glendale, Ca — Love Ride 26, slated for October 25, 2009, has been canceled. The announcement was made by Love Ride founder Oliver Shokouh, who cited the weak economy as the reason for the event’s cancellation.

In place of the usual event, Glendale Harley, Home of the Love Ride, is sponsoring an autograph session with Peter Fonda and free movie screening, commemorating the 40th Anniversary of Fonda’s starring role in “Easy Rider.” The event will take place at the dealership (3717 San Fernando Rd. in Glendale) Friday, October 23rd from 4-10pm. Glendale Harley will also be selling Love Ride memorabilia (Love Rides 1-26) on Saturday, October 24th from 9am-4pm and Sunday, October 25th from 6am-2pm. The hope is to recoup some of the costs already incurred this year by the Love Ride Foundation. The dealership will also have representatives on hand to answer any questions.

Donations to benefit our Love Ride beneficiaries are still being accepted and are tax deductible. The top ten fund-raising prizes featured in the Love Ride 26 brochure will still be awarded (excluding opportunity tickets).

If you have already registered for Love Ride 26, you will receive a Love Ride 26 ride pin and a Love Ride 26 patch. In addition, you will also receive a Love Ride 26 t-shirt. It’s our way of saying thank you for this year’s support. All incentive prizes will be available for pick-up at Glendale Harley on Saturday, October 24th and Sunday, October 25th.

For more information, please call our special hotline at 818-246-5618 ext. 141

Thank you.

 Story above from the Love Ride website: www.loveride.org/lr26/category/news/

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Economy stalls the Love Ride

The 26th running of annual motorcycle charity event has to be canceled due to lack of finances.

By Max Zimbert

GLENDALE — A lack of funds, not a lack of love, doomed what would have been the 26th annual Love Ride.

Organizers of one of the largest one-day motorcycle charity events in the world announced Thursday that it had been canceled due to poor ticket sales and other financial worries.

“The numbers were scary dismal to where we thought, ‘Gee, this thing is going to bomb,’” said Oliver Shokouh, Love Ride founder and the owner of Glendale Harley-Davidson, which organizes the ride.

Company officials canceled the event when pre-registration numbers were about one-third less than the event’s previously lowest turnout. The event typically raises more than $1 million, organizers said.

“I’ve talked to other people involved in charitable events, and typically they’re down on average by 50%, it seems like,” Shokouh said. “Charities have gone away from people’s hearts right now, and they’re really just fighting for survival.”

The Love Ride was started in 1984 as a fundraising event for the Muscular Dystrophy Assn. and had grown to benefit more than a dozen children’s charities.

A spokeswoman for the association said she was saddened by the cancellation, pointing out that funds raised by the Love Ride helped fund services and research for clients in the Los Angeles area.

“There’s no doubt that these are challenging times for [the association] and nonprofits alike,” said Roxan Triolo Olivas, national public relations manager for the association. “As a nonprofit we are accustomed to operating on a tight budget, and we will continue to work on new efforts to generate income.”

Instead of a ride that closes much of South Brand Boulevard, Shokouh arranged an autograph session with actor Peter Fonda and a free movie screening to commemorate the 40th anniversary of “Easy Rider.” The event is from 4 to 10 p.m. Oct. 23. Organizers will also sell Love Ride memorabilia at the dealership at 3717 San Fernando Road over the weekend.

“We’d rather try to hang on to what we have and cut our losses than lose it all and potentially more than we can afford,” Shokouh said, adding that the charity ride might return next year. “We’ll have to wait and see what happens to the state of the economy. We’ll see if we have the resources and energy and proper climate, but the vision’s always been great.”

Harley-Davidson laid off 1,100 workers in January, and motorcycle sales for 2009 were projected to drop about 40% compared with 2008, according to Dealernews, an industry publication.

Last year’s Love Ride attracted about 20,000 riders and culminated at the Fairplex in Pomona. The day of trade shows, exhibits, vendors and entertainment featured bikers from all over the U.S. An afternoon concert last year was headlined by ZZ Top and the Foo Fighters. Dwight Yoakam was slated to perform at this year’s event on Oct. 26.

Funding for the event comes mostly from Harley-Davidson of Glendale, with additional support from sponsorships. But backers were few and far between this year, Shokouh said.

“We’d cold-call a sponsor, some people would just laugh and hang up,” he said. “Even people we’ve had a relationship with in the past aren’t coming on board. It has been a really grueling experience.”

Glendale partnered with the event last year and marshaled about $29,000 worth of police and traffic control for about $14,000.

In September, the City Council approved $17,000 to co-sponsor the event, along with $2,000 to advertise the event.

“It’s really sad that such a great event is a victim of the economy,” said Philip Lanzafame, the city’s director of development services. “They’re holding a smaller event  . . . while it’s not the same grand scale we’ve come to know, the spirit of it is still there, of helping those who could use some help.”

Participants who had already registered will receive a Love Ride 26 pin, patch and T-shirt.

Donations to Love Ride charities are still being accepted and are tax deductible, organizers said.

Shokouh said he hadn’t gotten a lot of sleep the last few weeks.

“Nobody wanted to keep this going more than me,” Shokouh said. “Twenty-five years of my life, and the focus is to do the Love Ride every year. This year, we worked twice as hard . . . and it just wasn’t happening.”

HOGROCK River Rally Motorcycle Rally

Everything you want to know or see about the HOGROCK River Rally is right here.  We have all the latest HOG Rock 2009 information, pictures from past HogRock Rallies, plus links to other helpful information like area lodging, maps, weather and more.

For more information or to RSVP for the rally, visit the HOGROCK River Rally listing in our calendar.

View All Major Motorcycle Events & Biker Rallies

Rally Location: Cave in the Rock, Illinois  [Directions]  [Weather]

Rally Dates: June 10, 2010 - June 13, 2010 Gates open at 8:00am on Thursday

Price: $40 Per Person - $40 Support Vehical - $20 Trailer/Camper - $60 Self-Driven Camper

Official Rally Website: www.hogrock.com

Email: hogdaddy@hogrock.com   Phone: 866-464-7625

Past HOGROCK River Rally Photos:

Be sure to check out the CycleFish Photo Galleries for HOGROCK River Rally Pictures.

USBIKERPARTIES.com - The largest collection of rally & biker party pictures and online videos on the web. Over 37,000 pictures and 3,600 high quality online videos, with new ones added every week! Rated R

HOGROCK.com - The picture section on the official HOG Rock Rally site

Where to Stay:

Camping is available at the event for both tents and RV's.  Lots of tent camping area is available. (No extra charge for tent camping). Reserved RV Hook ups .......Limited Electrical and Water hookups are now available for an extra fee.  You will not be assessed an additional support vehicle fee, only the reserved RV fee.  Non Reserved RV's,  camper trailers, and motor homes.  In June these vehicles will have designated areas where they can park.  They will no longer be allowed to park anywhere in the campground.  The new areas will be clearly marked.   RV's, camper trailers, and motor homes will be parked in an organized way within these areas.   These RV's, camper trailers, and motor homes, will be charged a $60  fee.   (ex. Self driven RV/Motor homes = $60.00, Truck + Camper = $60.00)  These spots do not require reservations.  Additional HOGROCK Rally Camping information.

Area Motels - for those who don't want to camp:

• Cave-in-Rock Motel - 7 miles - (618) 289-3296
• Crossroads Motel - 21 miles - (618) 272-3100
• Comfort Inn in Harrisburg - 45 miles - (618) 252-2442
• Super 8 Motel - 45 miles - (618) 253-8081
• Cedar Hill River Resort - 9 miles - (217) 824-4257
   

Gulfport Blowout Memorial Day Motorcycle Rally

Everything you want to know or see about the Gulfport Blowout Rally is right here.  We have all the latest Gulfport Mississippi 2009 information, pictures from past Gulfport Rallies, plus links to other helpful information like area lodging, maps, weather and more.

For more information or to RSVP for the rally, visit the Gulfport Blowout listing in ou calendar.

View All Major Motorcycle Events & Biker Rallies

Rally Location: Gulfport, Mississippi  [Map]  [Weather]

Rally Dates: May 22, 2009 - May 25, 2009

Official Rally Website: www.harleyblowout.com

Email: harleyblowout@harleyblowout.com   Phone: 228-392-1801 

Past Gulfport Blowout Rally Photos:

Be sure to check out the CycleFish Photo Galleries for Gulfport Blowout Pictures.

Biker Rally Pics - These are all of the pictures of past Gulfport Blowout and other rallies that were on the Old CycleFish website.

USBIKERPARTIES.com - The largest collection of rally & biker party pictures and online videos on the web. Over 37,000 pictures and 3,600 high quality online videos, with new ones added every week! Rated R

Biker Chick Pictures - Check out Biker-Chick-Pics.com, the newest site from CycleFish. Rated R

HarleyBlowout.com - The picture section on the official Gulfport Rally site

Where to Stay:

The rally grounds offer 100+ acres of camping with designated areas for motor homes (no hookups).  Food and drinks, including beer, is available.  For those who do not wish to camp there are plenty of accomidations in the Gulfport / Biloxi area, including a large number of casino resorts.

Gulfport Area Accomidations                 Biloxi Area Accomidations

Gulfport Memorial Day Blowout Rally Review:

From our firend BikerBob of USABikerParties.com

Another year, another Memorial Day Blowout hosted by the ASGARD MC.  It's a deep south tradition (21st annual and still counting), and one of the best rallies to go to in the entire year.

They had everything a biker could want for a long weekend out partying.  Biker rodeo games (weenie bite, slow race, barrel race), some rocking bands, dragstrip racing, a really good BIKINI contest and one of the BEST DAMN WET T-SHIRT CONTESTS I've ever seen... and of course they sell beer AND have primitive camping so you can drink all you want and just chill out with your buds.

Also present was a good choice of food vendors, and of course the regular guys selling everything from sunglasses to the redneck rebel store (selling everything confederate a southern boy could possibly want), leather vendors, biker accessories... you name it, they was there.  There was even a guy TITTY PAINTING when the sun went down... you know I love this rally !

A bike show, tatoo contest and lot's of big giant trophies to give away along with cash prizes for all the winners.  You can tell that these guys have been putting on a good rally for a while, they seem to have it all down to a science.  Maybe it's just because it's a biker rally actually organised by bikers FOR bikers ! :)  I sure have a lot more fun every year at this rally than I ever had at Daytona.

All in all I would guess that about 10.000 people or so showed up to camp for the weekend, and who knows how many just popped in for the day.  Oh ya, why did I call it the ''invasion of the cajuns'' ?  Cuz we're right next door to good'ol Lousiana, and I ain't seen so many cajun's since... well the last time I was down on Bourbon street.  And the entire country KNOWS how the cajun's like to party... after all they DID invent Mardi Gras !

Like I said, I LOVE this rally.

I went, I saw, I liked.  And I had a great time.  Definately put this rally on your list of places to go next summer, cuz if you don't ya'll will read about it here and wish that you were able to say that you wuz there!

UPDATE: Good News - Even though the City of Hollister has canceled the motorcycle rally and events downtown...The original GTMC Bolado Park rally at Hollister Ca. is Back. This is NOT a city event the entire event will be at Bolado Park.

For more information, go the the Bolado Park Rally listing.

Once again the city of Hollister has canceled the Hollister Independence Motorcycle Rally.  You may rember the happened once before, back in 2006, and people showed up anyway.  Even thought there were no sponsored vendors, and the streets were not closed to cars...the parties went on at the local biker bars, and in the camping and lodging areas.

Here is the official statement from the City of Hollister:

HOLLISTER, CALIFORNIA – February 3, 2009 – The Hollister City Council voted to cancel the 2009 Hollister Motorcycle Rally, citing concerns over the potential cost to the City’s already struggling general fund.

The decision to cancel the rally came after months of careful consideration. Since 1997, the Hollister Motorcycle Rally has been an annual event.  Spiraling expenses caused a review of the feasibility of continuing the rally. Starting in 2004, the City had to begin paying increased costs for assistance from state law enforcement agencies. Due to the downturn in the state budget, these agencies could no longer provide services without reimbursement. In addition, adjustments were made to ensure that contracts with officers from outside agencies conformed to state law. Of course, as attendance at the rally increased over the years, additional law enforcement personnel were necessary to ensure the safety of rally attendees and the residents of Hollister.

In addition to law enforcement expenses, the City incurs costs associated with preparing for the event, as well as public works and equipment expenses. Finally, there are other public safety expenses, such as supplemental firefighter/paramedic staffing.

These expenses exceeded reimbursement by over $100,000. This left the City with a general fund expense at a time the City is facing severe cutbacks and spending down its general fund reserve. Facing the possibility of even greater expenses and further reduction of its general fund, the City Council voted to cancel the 2009 Hollister Motorcycle Rally.

Entering Events

Please read these guidelines before entering Events into the system...

First and foremost - This is a Motorcycle Event Calendar.  Do NOT ENTER EVENTS that are not MOTORCYCLE EVENTS.  Even if you have a motorcycle related business, if the event is not motorcycle related, DO NOT ENTER IT!

• To enter an Event you must be a registered user and logged in   [Login]   [Register]

• DO NOT USE ALL CAPS when entering any field for you Event (if you do your Event will most likely be deleted)

• DO NOT USE EXCESSIVE PUNTUATION OR SPECIAL CHARACTERS (ex. **** MY Event !!! ***) Your event will definitely be deleted!

• Do NOT enter duplicate events.  Check the calendar to ensure the event is not already listed.  (If you find an event listed which you are the promoter of, just contact us and we will transfer the event to your account so that you can manage the event.)

• Do not list individual event activities as seperate events (i.e. If you list your Bikefest as an event, do NOT create seperate event listings for a band playing or chili cook-off during the event.  Simply list all of the event activities under the main event description)

• Do NOT enter mutiple events under a single events.  (i.e. If you have a bike night every Wednesday during the summer, do NOT list as one event runing from June - September.  Each event must be listed individually)

• Only enter an end date if it is a multi-day Event

• Use the location "Box" to help people find the event (i.e. In the parking lot behind the Harley Davidson dealer)

• If you know the street address, please add if in Address, this will allow the Map feature to work

• Be sure to use the correct Category for the Event to make it easy to find in search

• All Privacy Options are totally up to you.  If it is an Event open to the public, leave these on the default settings

• Adding Primary Picture To Events - We have been getting lots of email asking how to enter the primary event photo when entering an event.  The event needs to be in the system first.  Right after you enter the event, you can edit the event and the first item that shows up is Event Photo.  Simply click the Browse button to find the picture on your computer, then click the Upload button.

• The Event Calendar is the ONLY AREA on the site in which events may be promoted.  Do NOT list events in the forums, blogs, or other areas of the site.  Do NOT send out mass Friend Requests or Messages soley to promote an event.

 What Can NOT be entered as an Event in the Calendar:

• A band appearance at a bar or club is NOT considered a Motorcycle Event, even if it is a biker bar, and should not be added to the calendar.

• A business sale or discount days is NOT considered an event and may not be promoted in the event calendar.

• A raffle, contest, or give-a-way that does not actually include a destination for motorcycles.

• A private party or event not open to the general public (exception - you may enter a private event if you mark the privacy correctly when entering the event. I.E. set is as an invitation only event, or set the privacy option so the event can only be viewed by Your Friends)

• Meetings or assemblies that are not actually some type of event.

In the Event Description box, please do not duplicate information we have already provided entry fields for (i.e. event website, phone, number, event email, etc).  This will help the search function work better when users are searching for events.

 We are going to work very hard to ensure we have not only the most complete list of motorcycle and biker events, but the easiest to navigate, search, and use.  We ask your help in accomplishing this by following the simple guidelenes above. The CycleFish Team will also be moderating the Events entered to ensure they have been entered and categorized correctly.

Click Here to Enter Your Event Now

The Laughlin River Run Vitals:

Rally Location: Laughlin, NV [Map]  [Weather]

Rally Dates: April 27, 2011 - May 1, 2011

Official Laughlin River Run Website: www.laughlinriverrun.com

CycleFish Event Listing: Laughlin River Run

Past Laughlin River Run Photos

Be sure to check out our CycleFish Photo Galleries for pictures from the Laughlin River Run.

Biker-Chick-Pics - Check out al the wild pictures from the Laughlin River Run and 100s of other motorcycle rallies at Biker-Chick-Pics.com - Rated R

Where To Stay (at the Rally)

You can stay pretty much at any of the Casino Hotels on the strip in Luaghlin and be right in the middle of the rally.  For camping I would recommend the Davis Camp just across the river (on the Arizona side).  Here are a couple of quick links to help you find a hotel or campsite.

Laughlin Hotels        Davis Camp

CycleFish at the Laughlin River Run

We will post more info on CycleFish at the 2010 event as it get closer.

The Annual Redwood Run for 2012 is now...

~ Back at the Riverview Ranch ~

Everything you want to know or see about the Redwood Run Motorcycle Rally is right here.  We have all the latest Kiwanis Original Redwood Run 2012 information, pictures from past Redwood Run Rallies, plus links to other helpful information like area lodging, maps, weather and more. 

If you are planning on attending, be sure to visit our Redwood Run Event Listing to RSVP.

Rally Location: Piercy, CA  [Map]  [Weather]

Rally Dates: June 8, 2012 - June 10, 2012

Official Redwood Run Website: www.kiwanisrwr.com

2012 Redwood Run Bands: TBA

2012 Ticket Prices: TBA

The Redwood Run is one of the last true old school biker events remaining on the west coast featuring three days of camping, live music, biker games and shows. Hot showers are included, along with vendors and various non-profits. To reserve tickets or to get on our mailing list, please leave contact info at kiwanisoftheredwoods@yahoo.com. Thank you for your support and patience. We look forward to seeing you all come June.

Past Redwood Run Photos

2011 Redwood Run Photos - from EagleEye

2011 Redwood Run Photos - from CycleFish

Be sure to check out our CycleFish Photo Galleries for pictures from the Redwood Run, we have been going for quite a few years and have a ton of pictures, with lots more we haven't even posted yet.

Biker Chick Pictures

- Lots of the more spicy photos we don't post here can be found on our sister site

Biker-Chick-Pics.com

. It is 100% Free - Rated R

Kenneth Gross's Redwood Run Pictures - Kenneth is a biker that just loves to shoot tons of pictures at events, and he does a great job at it. - Rated R

COCCOZELLA- 1000's pages of pics including hot biker babes, topless and naked, bikes, events, contests and more. There a quite a few pictures from the Redwood Run here as well as rallies like Sturgis, Little Sturgis, Easy Rider Rodeo, Thunder in the Valley, Myrtle Beach, Gulfport and lots more. Rated R (very SPICY R)

USBIKERPARTIES - The largest collection of rally & biker party pictures and online videos on the web. Over 50,000 pictures and 4,500 high quality online videos, with new ones added every week! The last I checked they were going to be adding some submissions from the Redwood Run - Rated R

Where To Stay (at the Rally)

There is plenty of camping available at the Redwwod Run.  Just follow the loop around and you will find all sorts of camping areas.  You can choose from staying up top where it is quite and eithe ride down or take the shuttle to get to the main event areas and vendors.  Or you can come down the hill and pick one of the many spots right in the heart of all the action.  There is even riversice camping, however the riverside sites are a little rocky and you will need to park and walk you gear in.  See the map below for camping locations.

Where To Stay (the night before)

Since the Redwood Run is a first come, first serve for camping spots, if a good location is important to you you will want to stay close by the night before so you can get up early and get in line.  The two closest spots with lodging are Willits - to the South, and Garbeville - to the north.  Both of these towns sell out allof there rooms pretty early each year, so if you want a room you need to book well in advance.  We have stay at the Best Western in Willits which leaves you about an hour ride to the Run, and at the Garberville Motel which is about 15 minutes from the run.  For those coming from the south and not to worried about getting real close the night before, we have stayed in Woodlands, CA which is about 3 hours from the run.  But they have really reasonbly priced rooms and lots of places to eat.

Quick Links:  Lodging in Willits    Lodging in Garberville

CycleFish at the Redwood Run

Now that the Redood Run is back at the Riverview Ranch, the CycleFish Camp will be in the same spot as always...

Additional Information from the Official Kiwanis Original Redwood Run Site

Daytona Bike Week - Daytona Motorcycle Rally - Daytona Biketoberfest 

The Rally Vitals:

Location: Daytona Beach, Florida  [Map]   [Weather]

Dates: Bike Week: March 4   thru  March 13, 2011

Dates: Biketoberfest: October 13   thru  October 16, 2011

Official Rally Website: www.officialbikeweek.com

Email: kevin@daytonachamber.com

Past Daytona Bike Week Rally Photos:

Be sure to check out the CycleFish Photo Galleries for Daytona Bikeweek Pics and pictures from other rallies.

Biker Chick Pictures - Check out our friends at Biker-Chick-Pics.com for the HOT pics of the wild biker chicks from Datona Bike Week and all the orallies. Rated R

USBIKERPARTIES.com - The largest collection of rally & biker party pictures and online videos on the web. Over 37,000 pictures and 3,600 high quality online videos, with new ones added every week! Rated R

BikeWeek.com - 100 of pictures from Daytona Bike Week and plenty of good information on the rally. Rated PG - www.bikeweek.com

Coccozella.com

- 1000's pages of pics including hot biker babes, topless and naked, bikes, events, contests and more. From rallies like Daytona, Sturgis, Little Sturgis, Easy Rider Rodeo, Thunder in the Valley, Myrtle Beach, Gulfport and lots more. Rated R (very SPICY R) - http://www.coccozella.com

DamnBikers.com - Over 100 pages of pics including hot biker babes, topless and naked, bikes, events, contests and more. From rallies like Sturgis, Little Sturgis, Easy Rider Rodeo, Thunder in the Valley, Myrtle Beach, Gulfport and lots more. Rated R (very SPICY R) - http://www.damnbikers.com

Daytona Bike Week Rally Websites:

Daytona Official BikeWeek Rally Website - Complete schedules and venue information, lodging info, message board, maps for rides through the scenic Florida, Daytona Rally history and much more. - www.officialbikeweek.com

BikeWeek.com - Lots of great info including lodging, Daytona area maps, Bike Week event calendars and pictures from past years at bike week. - www.bikeweek.com

Daytona Biker Hangouts:

Broken Spoke Saloon, Daytona - Sturgis SD, Daytona Beach FL, Myrtle Beach SC & Laconia NH, this place really knows how to throw a rally biker party. Rally time is fun time, with contests ranging from European stein-holding and Big Belly contests to tattoo artistry and even popsicle licking. Various bike shows are held almost every day of the rally. Broken Spoke Saloon has 4 locations in Sturgis, South Dakota; Daytona Beach, Florida; Myrtle Beach, South Carolina & Milwaukee, Wisconsin - www.brokenspokesaloon.com

If you have additional information on the Daytona Bike Week & Motorcycle Rally, or other listings you think should be here...please post a comment to this blog and we will include the information

Sturgis Bike Week / Black Hills Motorcycle Rally

The Rally Vitals:

Rally Location: Sturgis, South Dakota  [Map]  [Weather]

Rally Dates: August 6, 2012 - August 12, 2012

Official Rally Website: www.sturgismotorcyclerally.com

Email: rallydepartment@sturgismotorcyclerally.com   Phone: 605-720-0800

2012 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Event Listing

View All Major Motorcycle Events & Biker Rallies

Past Sturgis Rally Pictures:

Be sure to check out the CycleFish Photo Galleries for Sturgis Rally Pictures and pictures from other rallies.

USBIKERPARTIES.com - The largest collection of rally & biker party pictures and online videos on the web. Over 37,000 pictures and 3,600 high quality online videos, with new ones added every week! Rated R

Biker Chick Pictures - Check out Biker-Chick-Pics.com, another website from CycleFish. There are 100s of pictures there from our past years at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally as well as photos sent in by our visitors. Rated R

Sturgis.com Rally Pics - One of the biggest collections of Sturgis Rally pictures from 1996 - 2003. Rated PG - www.sturgis.com/picspage.html

Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Pictures - Hundreds of pics of the crowds, the bikes, the events and the scenery. Rated PG - www.sturgismotorcyclerally.com/photos/index.html

Buffalo Chip Campground Pictures - Hundreds of pictures from the campground during the past years of the Sturgis Rally. Bike games, bikes, biker babes the crowd and the concerts. Rated PG - www.buffalochip.com/photos.html

Coccozella.com - 1000's pages of pics including hot biker babes, topless and naked, bikes, events, contests and more. From rallies like Sturgis, Little Sturgis, Easy Rider Rodeo, Thunder in the Valley, Myrtle Beach, Gulfport and lots more. Rated R (very SPICY R) - http://www.coccozella.com

Sturgis Rally Websites:

Sturgis Motorcycle Rally - The official Sturgis Rally website. Complete schedules and venue information, lodging info, message board, maps for rides through the scenic Black Hills, Sturgis Rally history and much more. - www.sturgismotorcyclerally.com

Sturgis.com - Sturgis Rally newsletter, rally classified, online rally survey, guest book, local biker friendly business listings and more. - www.sturgis.com

Sturgis Bike Week - Schedules of all the rally events, purchase 2004 Sturgis Rally products online, live web cams and pictures from past rallies, a good list of camping and lodging including private homes for rent and more. - www.sturgisrally.net

Sturgis Rally - Buckle Tree - Great resource site with plenty of links to all you need to know about the Sturgis Rally. - www.sturgisrally.org

Sturgis Rally News - Event schedules, forum, newsletter, Sturgis Rally merchandise, lodging & camping info and much more. - www.sturgisrallynews.com

Sturgis Biker Hangouts:

The Full Throttle Saloon - Full Throttle Saloon, the "World's Largest Biker Bar!" is the ultimate biker's playground. This Biker Entertainment Complex is a short 2 mile ride east of downtown Sturgis on Highway 34. Come Experience the FULL THROTTLE RUSH everyone in Sturgis is talking about! Live bands entertain as you tap your foot to the beat or relax at one of the 15 unique Full-Service bars with delicious aromas from Full Throttle Saloon's own full line kitchen. Lady Bikers parade endlessly through, wearing those delightful thongs and chaps. Some even stopping long enough to shake those cheeks to the great music. Yes! You have arrived in paradise! - www.fullthrottlesaloon.com

Broken Spoke Saloon, Sturgis - At the world famous South Dakota motorcycle Mecca, it can be described as a "Museum that serves beer." Rally time is fun time in midsummer, with contests ranging from European stein-holding and Big Belly contests to tattoo artistry and even popsicle licking. Various bike shows are held almost every day of the rally. Broken Spoke Saloon has 4 locations in Sturgis, South Dakota; Daytona Beach, Florida; Myrtle Beach, South Carolina & Milwaukee, Wisconsin - www.brokenspokesaloon.com

One-Eyed Jacks Saloon - Just look for the tallest place on Sturgis Main Street. Check out our third floor balcony for a view that will blow your mind! We serve the world's best steaks every day along with many other entrees. You'll find super cold beer and every kind of liquor, both inside the bar and outside on our deck, served from the friendliest bartenders from both sides of the Mississippi while listening to Classic Rock & Roll and a little bit of country. - www.oneeyedjackssaloon.com

Sturgis Rally Camping:

Buffalo Chip Campground - The legendary Buffalo Chip Sturgis campground is without a doubt the most popular place to be during the Sturgis Rally. With vendors, food, beer, multiple stages with BIG name concerts every night, this is one big party. Oh yeah, they have 100's of acres of camping, sufficient showers and restroom facilities too! - www.buffalochip.com

Glencoe Campground - Only 3 miles from Main St Sturgis. Fenced motorcycle camping area + 1000 RV sites, 24 hour food facility & 24 hour convenience store, 100 hot showers, 130 acres of shade, 1250 picnic tables. This year the Glencoe stage will host some really big name bands. And of course there is the world famous Tutty-Alley - www.glencoecamp.com

Katmandu RV Park & Campground - Only 2 miles from Sturgis. Slightly smaller then some of the other area campgrounds, but very accommodating during the rally. 128 RV sites, dedicated motorcycle camping sites, and even some rental cabins. Amenities include a beer garden, restaurant, bike repair area, laundry facilities and ample showers and restrooms. - www.katmanducampground.com

Sturgis Bulldog Campground - Another of the areas smaller campgrounds located 5 miles from downtown Sturgis. Flush Toilets, Free HOT Showers - 2 large shower buildings - 12 showers in each building, Picnic Tables, Cook Shack Gazebo Seating 100 people, Laundry facilities, Convenience Store, Horseshoe Pits, Free Coffee (anytime) and Mini-Donuts in the Morning, Free Bike Wash Pad and More... - www.bulldogcampground.com

No Name Campground - Sturgis Rally Camping on the quiet side, Swimming Pool, Jacuzzi's, and more... No Name City RV Park & Campground promotes a slightly different atmosphere than the other area campgrounds, in that we are not so rowdy. After all, when you want to get Wild, we're only 3 miles away from the BIGGEST PARTY ANYWHERE and we'll even shuttle you to & from Main Street or any of the major event, FREE of CHARGE. - www.nonamecity.com

Lamphere Ranch Campground - Located 2 miles east of Downtown Sturgis on Highway 34/79 (Lazelle St.). Across from

Full Throttle Saloon. Only minutes from Main Street! Our Camp offers you the newest facilities: Flush toilets and showers, over 25 acres of shaded camping, lots of room for self-contained RVs, picnic tables and more.