I will be riding to Sturgis this year, first ever visit. I plan to stay in Rapid City, then ride in and out to the rally. For those who have been there, will that plan work? Or is the traffic going to make it a nightmare? Thanks

 

You'll be fine in Rapid. I've stayed there before and all over the Black Hills. Much better than staying in Sturgis in my opinion.

 

Stayed in rapid City for the 75th and had no problems getting in and out of Sturgis, there are a few back roads to make the ride a nice one to the town of Sturgis, and the Harley dealer is just two exits down the highway. Have fun.

 

Rapid City is a great place, not too far from Sturgis. In fact once you have ridden into Sturgis, parked on Main, climbed the photo tower ($5), taken the photo, walked up and down the street, bought the T shirt, and maybe take in a concert at the Chip (if you can get a ticket) you are essentially through with the Sturgis experience. There is so much more to do, Mount Rushmore, The Badlands, Devils Tower, the Black Hills, we rode 300 miles a day locally a few years back just trying to get in all the sights. And of course this brings out all of the crazy, macho, show off riders, just be careful. Stayed in Deadwood also, as much action there as in Sturgis.

 

Stay in Hill City!!!!

 

Agreed, I would stay about anywhere other than Sturgis, or within 10 miles of it for that matter.

 

Other than BHHD, you're in the city. You'll be driving 20 -40 miles to get to the good riding spots. I prefer to stay in the central Hills where the riding nd sites are outside your door. If you're into the party scene, Sturgis is entertaining. If not, I'd urge you to stay in the Hills.

 

Stayed in Rapid City 2years ago and it was fine. You will encounter bikes on every road no matter where you stay. Only real traffic is getting in and out of Sturgis itself.

 

Yep, everyone has given you good advice. Traffic won't be an issue as it is interstate all the way from Rapid to Sturgis.

 

We stayed in Lead this past rally, and only went to Sturgis one half day. Ther is more to see around Sturgis than in Sturgis.
Great advise from everyone.