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A Short History of The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

Jul. 20 2023 Travel Guide By Willamette Valley Indian Motorcycles

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The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is one of the most famous motorcycle rallies in the entire country, and motorcycle enthusiasts both near and far come out to celebrate their love of these amazing vehicles. To learn more about the long history of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, as well as the many events and competitions they host at this unique event, check out our informative article below.

Origins

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally originally got its start all the way back in 1938, when a group of riders set up an event called the Black Hills Motor Classic to host motorcycle stunts and races. The event quickly became popular among motorcycle enthusiasts in the area, and the event ran annually until 1942 when the rally was postponed due to World War II. A year after the war ended in 1946, the rally was reinstated and has continued to be hosted in Sturgis, South Dakota, and the Black Hills region without fail up to the present day. 

Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Today

What originally began as a 3-day motorcycle rally hosting group rides, races, and stunts, has now become a 10 extravaganza for motorcycle enthusiasts. While the old traditions are still present in modern-day rallies, the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally has grown to be much more. On top of motorcycle events and races, there are now a number of food vendors, concerts, and various other forms of entertainment available, as well as a museum covering the long history of the event. You’re also welcome to compete in various novelty competitions at the rally, such as the best tattoo, or best beard and mustache contests, and the event is known to sometimes hold races for dirt bikes and even cars—although these are not annual events. 

Looking for an amazing new motorcycle model to show off at the upcoming Sturgis Motorcycle Rally? Then be sure to visit us here at Willamette Valley Indian Motorcycle®! Our location in Eugene, OR offers an enormous selection of some of the best motorcycles in the industry, and proudly serves the nearby Corvallis, OR area.