What is Sturgis and why should you go? If you’ve never been to the rally but you’re considering it, then check out these six must-know facts!
Anyone who’s an avid motorcycle rider knows about Sturgis and getting away for the annual rally. Located in Sturgis, South Dakota, this small town doesn’t ring a bell for many people who aren’t riders.
For everyone else who owns a motorcycle, knowing Sturgis is part of their lifestyle. It’s the chance to connect with other motorcycle owners and travel to see part of the world with the freedom of being on your bike.
Here are a few essential things to know when planning your trip, so you get the most out of your experience.
1. Be Aware of Law Enforcement
Just as you would be conscious of the law, pay particular attention when you’re visiting Sturgis. Although people who live there know what South Dakota bike week is, not all of them have the same level of appreciation for biking as you do.
Law enforcement is especially attentive when the bike rally is in town. When the Sturgis biker rally is going on, police are looking for people speeding or driving under the influence.
Obey the laws, and don’t make foolish decisions to ride when you’re not up to it or try to gun it.
Bikers in town can become the target of officers who believe they’re stirring up trouble or bringing mayhem to this sleepy little town.
Go with the thought that you’ll have a great time meet new people. If you have positive expectations of your trip, you’ll focus on what’ll go right, while still remaining aware of the law.
2. Understand You’re in a Wildlife Heavy Area
One of the reasons many bikers like visiting Sturgis is because of all the wildlife and nature in the area. That said, it’s important to remain aware of your surroundings.
As you head into wooded areas, pay attention to wild animals. This includes not only deer but elk, moose, raccoon, and a variety of smaller animals that frequently crossroads.
Paying attention to them can prevent damage to your motorcycle, which is the last thing you want when heading to South Dakota bike week.
3. Be Mindful of Spending Habits
When you’re on vacation, it’s easy to spend money you didn’t plan on. Lodging, souvenirs, food, and gas are just a few of the things money gets spent quickly.
Before you go on your trip, make a plan of how much money you’re taking and what the maximum is you want to spend. Once you have a budget in place, you’ll stick to it, and avoid spending too much.
Consider ways to make the most of your money, such as finding local campsites instead of a hotel or looking for local establishments when it comes to eating, rather than using a fast food joint.
Money saved means more money you can use to go on another biking trip.
4. Create a Plan to Help You Enjoy Your Visit
When you’re planning to go to the Sturgis bike rally, be sure to figure out where you want to stop.
Are you just going to the rally, or do you plan to visit nearby towns or cities in the area? Or do you have plans to head west and visit California or someplace else with beautiful scenery?
Consider where you’re stopping and what your goals are, and plan your trip that way. You’ll figure out what is the best route to take going there and coming back while hitting your favorite stops.
You’ll discover new places and have a renewed incentive to go back again when you plan a trip on your bike.
5. Know How to Enjoy the Blackhills
The Blackhills are considered one of the most beautiful parts of South Dakota and aren’t to be missed. If you’ve heard about their beauty but never visited, it’s time to plan a trip.
If you’ve wanted to see them during the Sturgis rides, consider renting a house and getting up close and personal. You’ll have the chance to live just like a local, a dedicated home for the time of the rally, and avoid dealing with a hotel filling up fast.
Black Hills Getaways offers the chance to rent a private home and live like a local during your time out in South Dakota. You’re still close to all the action and have your own place to retreat to at the end of the day.
6. Understand How the Town Normally is Outside of the Rally
When the Sturgis bike rally isn’t going on, the town is normally peaceful and quiet. If you’re planning on staying before or after the rally for any given time and always wanted to experience small-town America, this is the perfect opportunity.
While there’s not as much going on as there is within a bustling city, this makes a great getaway for people who want a quiet vacation. Take advantage of friendly locals, beautiful views, and wildlife everywhere, and relax.
Cooking out, enjoying a night under the stars, or riding in peace can remind you why you started biking in the first place. Sometimes vacation means getting away from it all and just enjoying the ride.
Learn More About Planning Your Next trip
If you have friends and family members asking you what is Sturgis, you can let them know it’s more than just a rally. For many people, this small town is a relaxed way of life that allows folks to get back to their roots.
It makes the perfect place for bikers to get together once a year and enjoy everything related to motorcycles in a fun setting with a beautiful backdrop.
If you’re looking for other ways to make the most of your trips and prep for your next road trip somewhere, let us help. Check out our blog on the top ten travel tips for the open road.
If you have any thoughts, be sure to share them with us in the comments.
