Once again, getting ready to go to the Black Hills of South Dakota for the 78th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
Sturgis Motorcycle Rally 2018 - Concerts, Music Festival
First attended in 1963 and wow, has it changed over the years. Missed some years in the '70's but yearly since 1981. Always a good time. Meet fellow riders from all over the world .. the UK, France, Germany, Poland, South America, Australia and yes, even Russia.
Also see motorcycles from all over the world and some with crazy modifications. One year, a Sportster plated in 24K gold .. everything but the tires!! A real sight to behold....and an awesome place for "people watching"
The last couple of years, the yuppie crowd hasn't been prevalent with their customized $80,000 'bar bikes.'
Met/visited with Jessie James, a popular bike builder a few years back. Never met any of the "jollywood" gang that sometimes are there.
The "big, bad biker gang" appearances have faded although back when quite visible, if you don't hassle them, they won't bother you either.
Since I quit drinking decades ago .... the bar scene holds zero interest and neither do the concerts (if you can call the noise that) which are usually so loud, they can be heard beyond the venue site.
Always lots of vendors too, however, the number of attendees and vendors has decreased since the big one, the 75th anniversary. The 80th anniversary will probably be more crowded again.
Best part is riding the curving roads thru the beautiful Black Hills. A big change for the long, straight highways normally driven.
This year will be going with my 2nd oldest son. Loading both Harley's in the XT276 and spending 5 days at Tillford Gulch Campground... clean and fairly quiet campground have stayed at for past 10+ years.
Looking forward to a grand time once again.
PS: If you will be there, I'll be riding a Harley.
__________________