Haha, a buddy of mine shares that sentiment, but not in a good way. He used to lead the ride for a local Harley dealer until a few years ago. He was always leery of inexperienced riders who only get out a couple times a year for rides like that. When they got there, he said he was staged at the lead of about 50 other bikes, waiting for someone to tell them to proceed. The next thing he knew, someone behind him revved up, took off, and ran right into his back end. Between S&S motor, trans, custom paint, etc, etc. he has about $80K into his bike... and he was PISSED. Turns out some amateur rider on a garage queen just wasn't paying attention. That was the last time he did that ride.

So, if you're going, pay extra attention and watch out for morons.

 

I haven't decided if I will meet some friends and ride into DC and watch the riders coming into DC or if I will go to the Pentagon and ride in. Too many inexperienced riders in the groups from the dealers.

 

Hmmm...maybe that person did it intentionally? because they were jealous of the nice bike? anything is possible...just saying

 

HAH, I never thought of that! Either way, it's still a dick/amateur move.

 

If you could only attend one day which would it be? Also on the ride experience front... I ride every day in all sorts of conditions but have not ridden in a group. Should I not do it (please be honest but not prickish), I have skills but no experience.

 

My wife and I will be downtown. We are not going to the Pentagon this year. Looking forward to it. Sunday's weather looks like it is going to be spectacular!!! I can't wait.

 

If you have been riding a while and have skills you should be ok. The parade is not very fast pace.

 

IMO, it's not YOUR skills that should concern you. It's the skills of the unknown people riding all around you that you need to worry about.

Even still, if you've never experienced it, you should - even just once. Just be extra alert.

 

Thanks guys! Parade is on Sunday correct? I know I'll just look on the website

 

It'll be a last minute decision for me. Did it last year for the first time and was very glad I did. Rode down with a local dealer group which worked out well until we had to blend with Memorial Day weekend Beltway traffic and the police escort ended. It was a bit of a cluster for awhile. Just have to be more alert than ever and give the 'overly excited' plenty of room. You will never forget the ride around the mall on Sunday. Rather than ride with a group and then bake in the Pentagon lot, I might just do my own thing this year...find a place to park...and just soak it all in.

Pack some food and plenty of water...and sunscreen...