The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is in...South Dakota!
Sturgis is a city in western South Dakota and is around 50 miles from Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Sturgis is known for the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, which is held in August of every year and draws thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts to the city.
The First Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
After Clarence “Pappy” Hoel purchased an Indian Motorcycle franchise, he realized he could bring other motorcycle enthusiasts together. In 1938, Pappy, Pearl (his wife), and the Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club (founded by Pappy in 1936) decided to host a race in Sturgis, which marks the year of the very first Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
Held on August 14, 1938, the first Rally was originally held for stunts and races and was called the “Black Hills Classic”. It consisted of one race with nine participants and attended by a small audience of 200 spectators. To date, the highest official attendance count was in 2015 of 739,000 people.
What Goes on at the Sturgis Bike Rally?
Today, the City of Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is one of the largest gatherings of motorcycle fanatics in the world. During the rally, the entire town is swarmed with motorcycles, parties, bike shows, live concerts, and more. People from all over the world come to attend, ride, sightsee, and experience the atmosphere.
The Rally is a perfect way to bring together people with like-minds and a love for motorcycles! From exploring the Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame to riding down Main Street, everyone in attendance is sure to learn about Sturgis’ history and have the time of their lives!
Have you ever been to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally? Comment below and tell us your experience!
