15 Things You Need to Know About Sturgis
Who’s going to the 75th annual Sturgis rally this year? If you are gearing up for the big ride, here is a list of 10 15 things you should know about the greatest rally of all time.
1. Sturgis is by far the world’s largest motorcycle rally.
2. The first rally was called the Black Hills Motor Classic and was held August 12-14, 1938.
3. The event was first organized by the Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club.
4. As the event grew it was held during the first weekend in August so as to not compete with established events held in the area.
5. The rally has been held continuous except during World War II due to gas rationing.
6. Sturgis has a population of 6,627 and balloons to over half a million during the rally.
7. The elevation of the town of Sturgis is 3,239 feet at its highest point.
8. Motorcyclists must wear protective eye gear if your bike does not have a large windscreen.
9. Helmets are not required for riders over the age of 18 in South Dakota.
10. Indecent exposure, disorderly conduct, trespassing, and driving on sidewalk will get you a $111 ticket in Sturgis.
11. It’s a pain in the a$$ to ride thru town from one end to the other.
12. All the good riding is to the west i.e. Deadwood, Custer State Park, Spearfish Canyon, Rushmore and Devil’s Tower.
13. Eat Breakfast in Deadwood cheap.
14. Wait til the end of the rally to buy T-shirts.
15. Use the shuttle if you’re going from campgrounds to town a lot.
Thanks to Jack Miller Jr. for adding 11-15!