Did you know that over eight percent of the U.S. owns a motorcycle? That’s over ten million households. And it’s no wonder.
There’s nothing quite like the roar of a motorcycle engine—cruising down the open road on a beautiful day with friends (or solo) is an experience only motorcyclists can describe. If you’re looking to experience the biggest motorcycle rallies in the country, look no further.
From Daytona Beach Bike Week to the Sturgis South Dakota Motorcycle Rally, these world-renowned events have something for every chopper enthusiast. They’ll even impress the most veteran riders.
In this guide, we’ll provide you with information on 13 of the biggest and most exciting motorcycle rallies in the U.S. So keep reading, grab your leather jacket, and get ready for a road trip!
1. South Dakota Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
The Sturgis SD Motorcycle Rally is one of the most popular rallies in the world, hosting up to 700,000 visitors annually. It’s been around since 1983 and is held every August in Sturgis, SD. The event started as a one-day gathering that soon grew to a ten-day biker celebration.
During the rally, motorcyclists from all over the world come to participate in events and activities, including live music performances, bike shows, racing, and even hill climbs.
The rally lasts over a week and attracts an average of 500,000 people. If you’re looking for an action-packed rally with plenty of things to do, the Sturgis SD Motorcycle Rally is definitely worth checking out. It’s a truly legendary experience whether you’re a rookie or a seasoned biker.
When: August 5 – August 14
Where: Sturgis, South Dakota
What to expect: Bike shows, races, music, field activities, food and drinks
2. Daytona Beach Bike Week
Daytona Bike Week is held every March in Daytona Beach, Florida. It’s one of the most well-known rallies in the country, and for a good reason. Formally known as the Daytona 200, this 1937 race morphed into a ten-day festival full of activities, including music, races, and more.
Over 500,000 people attend Daytona Bike Week each year, making it one of the largest rallies in the country. If you’re looking for a great time and plenty of things to do, this is the rally for you. The Florida weather is superb, the party doesn’t stop, and the motorbikes are aplenty.
When: March 3 – March 12
Where: Daytona Beach, Florida
What to expect: Racing, signature events, street events, southern cuisine
3. The One Motorcycle Show
The One Moto Show is a motorcycle rally that’s been held annually in Portland, Oregon, since 2009. It’s one of the more eclectic motorcycle events, featuring an artistic, flashy bike show.
The event is open to all ages. So if you’re looking for a family-friendly rally, The One Moto Show is a great option for your whole family. And the best part? It’s free to attend.
When: April 29 – May 1
Where: Portland, Oregon
What to expect: Custom motorcycles, art, live music, all-ages welcome
4. Arizona Bike Week
AZ Bike Week is held every April in Scottsdale, Arizona. It’s a weeklong event that features an impressive list of activities, including live music, races, concerts, and more. The event itself is free, but you can also purchase tickets to concerts for between $50-$100.
There are two famous events featured at AZ Bike Week: the Poweryard and the Rockyard. The Rockyard features live music from some of the best rock bands in the country. Past bands have included Rob Zombie, Ted Nugent, and Stone Temple Pilots.
The Poweryard is a celebration of all things motorcycle and includes vendors, camping, and other outdoor events. If you’re looking for a weeklong event with plenty of things to do and an adrenaline-pumping good time, this rally will keep you busy for a long while.
When: March 29 – April 2
Where: Scottsdale, Arizona
What to expect: Premium concerts, outdoor activities, plenty of food
5. Laconia Bike Week
Laconia Bike Week is held every June in Laconia, New Hampshire. It’s one of the oldest rallies on our list, as it was first held 96 years ago (1916).
Today, this vintage event offers plenty of activities for bikers, including fun competitions like “Biggest Beer Belly,” races, hill climbs, and more. If you’re looking for a historic rally with plenty of things to do, Laconia Bike Week is a great option for you and the family.
When: Last week of August
Where: Laconia, New Hampshire
What to expect: Contests, racing, historical rally
6. Bama Bike Fest
If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience, be sure to check out Bama Bike Fes. The event is held three times a year in Leeds, Alabama.
It’s one of the largest motorcycle rallies in the country, with over 50,000 attendees each year. The festival is a four-day event that features plenty of activities for bikers, including poker, contests, and more.
Bama Bike Fest is also highly affordable—so if you’re on a budget, purchase a ticket for a mere $30 and get access to the entire four-day event. Additionally, the event is held three times a year, so if you think you missed it, don’t worry because there are multiple events in Summer and Fall.
If you’re looking for a great time, convenience, and budget-friendly biker action, Bama Bike Fest will be one of your new favorite events.
When: October 30 (next event)
Where: Leeds, Alabama
What to expect: BYOB, food, bike games, poker, contests
7. Biketoberfest
Biketoberfest is held every October in Daytona Beach, Florida. It’s one of the most popular motorcycle rallies in the country, with over 100,000 attendees each year. The event is often considered the second Daytona Beach Week, so you know it will be a lot of fun.
The weather is usually perfect for riding, and there are plenty of things to do in the area. If you’re looking for a great motorcycle rally to attend, Biketoberfest should be high on your list.
Time: October
Location: Daytona Beach, Florida
Activities: Giveaways, food and drinks, races, entertainment
8. Las Vegas Bike Fest
Las Vegas Bike Fest is the place to be to get wild. Held every September in Las Vegas, Nevada, the event goes on for four days and provides a wide variety of entertainment for attendees.
There are plenty of things to do in Las Vegas, and the city is home to some of the best hotels and casinos in the world. If you’re looking for a great motorcycle rally to attend, Las Vegas Bike Fest is diverse and packed to the brim with things to do.
Time: Fall
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Activities: Live music, stunt shows, bikini contests, food, and drinks
9. Republic of Texas Motorcycle Rally
The Republic of Texas Motorcycle Rally is held every June in Austin, Texas. The event features live music, stunt shows, contests, and more. It’s a four-day event dating back to 1955.
The event offers plenty of activities, from bike shows to downtown street parties. The crowd often reaches over 200,000, making this rally one of the biggest in the country.
When: June 9 – June 12
Where: Austin, Texas
What to expect: Music, bike shows, entertainers, food and drinks
10. Myrtle Beach Bike Week
Myrtle Beach Bike Week takes place in spring and fall, featuring beautiful scenic rides, drag racing, and more. Best of all, it’s located in one of the most beautiful beach towns in the country. The origins of the event date back to 1940, and it now brings in over 200,000 visitors each year.
Myrtle Beach Bike Week is centered around riding the picturesque coastline, so if you’re itching for an event to get your new Harley out, head down to Florida for some action.
When: September 26 – October 2 / May 12 – May 21
Where: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
What to expect: Live rock music, drag races, riding events, food, and drinks
11. Four Corners Motorcycle Rally
The Four Corners Motorcycle Rally is held every year in Durango, Colorado, on Labor Day weekend. The event features live music, bike shows, vendors, and more.
This rally resides near the Four Corners Monument and offers beautiful mountain terrain for scenic cruises with friends. You’ll probably want to move once you decide to travel to this charismatic bike rally.
When: September 4 – September 6
Where: Pagosa Springs, Colorado
What to expect: Live music, racing, bikes shows, stunning mountain views
Looking for inspiration for your next ride? Check out our article highlighting the Top Motorcycles Right Now.
12. Gettysburg Bike Fest
The Gettysburg Bike Fest is held every July in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. The event features live music, stunt shows, vendors, and more. One of the best parts about the Gettysburg Bike Fest is that it’s one of the most historical events on our list.
Gettysburg is the site of one of the most famous battles in American history, and the bike fest takes place right in the heart of the town. If you’re looking for a great motorcycle rally to attend, the Gettysburg Bike Fest is definitely one of the best.
When: July 9
Where: Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
What to expect: Live music, parades, bike games, music, food, and drinks
13. Bikes Blues and BBQ
Bikes Blues and BBQ is a legendary, non-profit motorcycle rally that takes place in Arkansas. It’s held annually in late September every year. The event features music, food vendors, and a bike show, and they’ve donated over $3 million to charity since 2000.
Bike Blues and BBQ is one of the few adults-only motorcycle rallies, and it goes on for four days. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, and the party doesn’t stop until late at night. If you’re looking for a good time with your buddies and enjoy meat and motorcycles, check this one out.
When: September/October
Where: Fayetteville, Arkansas
What to expect: Live music, BBQ, drinks, music, non-profit, charity
Visit the Biggest Motorcycle Rallies with Mercury Auto Transport
There you have it, thirteen of the biggest motorcycle rallies in the United States. Each event has something unique to offer, so choose the one that sounds like the most fun to you. And don’t forget, motorcycle safety should always come first. Ride safely and drink responsibly!
Do you need an auto shipping company to transport your bike to a rally? Check out our website for a free quote. We can ship motorcycles all over the country at affordable rates that you’ll love.
