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Sturgis is the home of one of the longest running motorcycle events in the United States. Thousands of enthusiasts make the trek to this corner of South Dakota from all over the planet. Some come by road and some come by air. They come to see, to be seen, to shop for who knows what, and to hang out. Hanging out, tire kicking, and people watching are the main attractions. Looking at products in the huge portable mall and of course observing motorcycles of all breeds, years, and degree of customization. Every town in the surrounding area is vying for the biker buck with come-ons and added extra attractions. And inbetween these towns are the South Dakota Highway Patrol just trying to fill there performance quotas and the states coffers. So it’s a constant tug of war between the bars who wham you to drink and the cops who want to bust you. All I can say is, it ain’t a real friendly way to welcome people who drop millions of dead presidents into your region! The best advice if you wanna drink, do it where you are staying so you don’t get busted, your bike towed, have to post a bond, pay a fine, lose you license, etc.

Betcha ya didn’t know that Sturgis is developing a rally or two other than the well known motorcycle event. In June 2010, Sturgis hosted a reported 800 Cushman scooters at the Cushman Scooter Rally. And then once the main motorcycle rally ends and the motorcycle enthusiasts leave, the city of Sturgis pulls out all stops for their annual Ford Mustang Rally that takes place Labor Day Weekend. But I’m here for bikes so let’s get on with it.

There was a couple this year riding Stingray bicycles converted to electric bikes. Home-built and inventive. Also, this was the first time in many years that the Motor Company graced Sturgis with their presence, having giving up the Convention Center location both in Daytona and now Sturgis.  They now are in the heart of Sturgis, a block off of Main Street and next to the World Championship Bike Show. Welcome Back Willie G and family. It’s about time you returned!