Blessing of the Bikes Kicks Off 2017 Riding Season

Annual Harley-Hosted Event Brings Together Bikers of All Faiths

For many, the annual Blessing of the Bikes event has come to signify the beginning of riding season. These events, which always draw big crowds, take place all across the country in early spring. Live 5 News was there for this year’s kick off in Charleston, South Carolina, which attracted around 300 people of all faiths. Hosted annually by Low Country Harley-Davidson and Armored Up Motorcycle Ministries, the event helps bring together what has already become a tight community.

“The motorcycle community is a close-knit family who respects and takes care of each other,” says Jennifer Gibson, Marketing Manager for Low Country Harley-Davidson, to Live 5 News. “The annual Blessing of the Bikes is always a favorite event for these folks, because they are able to gather, meet other riders and share ideas on how to improve, not only the motorcycle community but the Low Country community as a whole.”

The Christian Motorcycle Association was on hand completing individual and group blessings. A number of vendors were there to show their support and offer up goodies. Entertainment came courtesy of Greenville-based Christian rock band Vessel 21. And riders who showed up for the morning kickoff were treated to breakfast biscuits and coffee.

Blessing of the Bikes perfectly embodies the brotherhood that is Harley-Davidson. It’s just further proof that no matter what your beliefs or what you ride, we all share the same passions.

Brett Foote

Brett Foote has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is a longtime contributor to Internet Brands’ Auto Group sites, including Chevrolet Forum, Rennlist, and Ford Truck Enthusiasts, among other popular sites.

He has been an automotive enthusiast since the day he came into this world and rode home from the hospital in a first-gen Mustang, and he's been wrenching on them nearly as long.

In addition to his expertise writing about cars, trucks, motorcycles, and every other type of automobile, Brett had spent several years running parts for local auto dealerships.

You can follow along with his builds and various automotive shenanigans on Instagram: @bfoote.