Buzz
The Main Street of Sturgis, South Dakota, is filled with crowds and motorcycles as the 69th annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally reached its peak on August 6, 2009. Browse more images capturing the excitement of the event.
AP Photo/Steve McEnroeSturgis, South Dakota, is a tranquil town for most of the year, but for one week in August, it transforms into the host of the largest and most exhilarating motorcycle rally in the world. The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is one of the longest-running motorcycle events in the U.S., and in 2010, it marked its 70th anniversary.
Although numerous motorcycle rallies take place worldwide, the Sturgis rally stands out for its global appeal, drawing bikers from every corner of the planet. The event is centered around one common goal: having a great time. The week features bike exhibitions, live music, motocross contests, copious amounts of alcohol, and plenty of offbeat entertainment.
Known simply as 'Sturgis' or 'The Rally' to motorcycle fans, the event is a time when South Dakota's population nearly doubles in a single week. But what makes this rally so unique? In this article, we will explore the rally's origins, the activities that take place, and the vibrant culture it brings to Sturgis every year. Next, let's dive into the history of the rally.
History of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
This undated image captures Neil Hultman riding a motorcycle with a sidecar in Sturgis, South Dakota. Hultman is the second-oldest living member of the Jackpine Gypsies, the motorcycle club responsible for founding what is now the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
AP Photo/Sturgis Motorcycle MuseumOn August 14, 1938, in Sturgis, South Dakota, a group of nine men raced their motorcycles with a small audience in attendance. These bikers, part of the Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club, helped organize the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, with the involvement of J.C. 'Pappy' Hoel, a member and the owner of the Indian Motorcycle Shop. Before venturing into the motorcycle business, Hoel worked for his family's ice company. His success as a motorcycle dealer in South Dakota is legendary [source: Hoel Motors]. Since that inaugural race in 1938, the rally has been held every year, except for two during World War II. Now, seven decades later, the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is still thriving and shows no signs of slowing down.
What began as a small group of racers has grown into the world's largest motorcycle gathering. The rally now attracts all kinds of motorcycles and people. In 1960, the rally drew just 800 attendees, and by 1970, that number had grown to 2,000. The official guidebook for the rally notes that since 1970, attendance has skyrocketed. By the year 2000, approximately 550,000 people attended [source:
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally preserves its racing legacy by hosting a half-mile (.8-kilometer) motorcycle race, reminiscent of Hoel's first event. Over the years, additional races, competitions, concerts, and a wide variety of entertainment have been incorporated, far surpassing what the original founders ever envisioned.
Events at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
Motorcyclists gather on their bikes, waiting for a concert to begin at the Buffalo Chip Campground during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in Sturgis, South Dakota.
AP Photo/Morry GashWhile many bikers travel long distances to reach Sturgis, the events throughout the week are well worth the journey. The various races and activities are spread across multiple zones in and around the town of Sturgis. These zones are: the Sturgis Zone, the Bear Butte Zone, and the Black Hills Zone [source: The Sturgis Rally Guide Book].
The Sturgis Zone is the heart of the rally, with Main Street offering the best opportunities for people-watching and admiring bikes. The Sturgis Rally Guide Book suggests you make sure to visit Main Street at least one evening during the event. Unlike other areas, Sturgis doesn't feature large concerts, but it's famous for its bars, bike shops, and tattoo parlors. Motorcycle races are also held in this zone during the rally.
The Bear Butte Zone, located just east of Sturgis, is where the rally hosts its biggest concerts. The Buffalo Chip and Rockin' the Rally are the primary concert venues. Past performers have included Tom Petty, Keith Urban, and Kid Rock. For the 70th anniversary, ZZ Top will headline the festivities [source: Buffalo Chip]. This zone is also known for its lively campgrounds and close proximity to entertainment shows, so attendees can enjoy drinks and entertainment without having to ride their bikes. The Bear Butte Zone also features motorcycle and car drag races during the rally.
In addition to the concerts, many bikers are drawn to the rally for the breathtaking rides found in the Black Hills Zone. This area, spanning South Dakota and Wyoming, is home to iconic landmarks like Mt. Rushmore, the Badlands, and the Crazy Horse Monument. The Black Hills Zone offers a more peaceful and secluded experience compared to the other rally zones.
The rally also features motorcycle hill climbs, where bikers race their bikes up steep inclines. Another highlight is the AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building, an event that attracts many fans. For bikers seeking more than just scenic views, the Sturgis rally offers a wide range of entertainment, rivaling the excitement of Las Vegas.
The Culture of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
Tiny Carnajan from Minneapolis, Minnesota, pauses for a moment on his bike at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in Sturgis, South Dakota.
AP Photo/Morry GashBeyond the concerts, star performers, bike shows, and scenic rides, the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is equally renowned for the culture that surrounds it. The rally's lively party atmosphere is a major component of what makes this annual event so unforgettable.
The rally features a variety of contests and pageants for women, but these should not be mistaken for traditional beauty pageants. Some of the unofficial events involve women riding around, showcasing both their bikes and their physiques. Partial nudity is not uncommon during these events, particularly in the campgrounds. While some campsites near Sturgis are peaceful and private, the majority are known for their lively parties. Although the city of Sturgis enforces strict laws regarding indecent exposure, many rally-goers push these boundaries throughout the week.
Biker bars play a significant role in rally culture. Most of these bars feature live music, and some even have burnout pits for tire-smoking fun. Several bars are large enough to allow bikers to ride their motorcycles inside, and they offer various forms of entertainment. Nearly all of these establishments host live performances, with some, like the Full Throttle Saloon, having featured well-known artists such as Lil Jon and Molly Hatchet [source: The Sturgis Rally Guide Book].
The rally's official guidebook includes a list of criminal statistics from previous years: emergency room visits, arrests, parking violations, and calls to the local sheriff are just a few examples of the more rebellious behaviors. On average, $250,000 worth of motorcycles are stolen each year during the event. Although many misdemeanors are committed, most of the arrests are for non-violent offenses.
While the atmosphere at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is not ideal for families, it attracts a diverse crowd. People from all walks of life attend, including doctors, lawyers, hardcore bikers, and those simply looking to enjoy the event and culture of Sturgis.
