Sturgis Motorcycle Rally — 86th

About the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is one of the oldest and largest motorcycle gatherings in the world. First held in 1938 when Clarence 'Pappy' Hoel organised a small race in the town of Sturgis, South Dakota, the event has grown into a ten-day pilgrimage that draws hundreds of thousands of riders each August. The Black Hills region that surrounds Sturgis is legendary for its riding — Needles Highway, Iron Mountain Road, Spearfish Canyon and the Badlands offer some of the most dramatic motorcycle roads in North America.

For Harley-Davidson riders, Sturgis is more than a rally — it's a rite of passage. The town of Sturgis (population around 7,000) transforms completely for the event, with Main Street becoming a procession of custom bikes, vendors, live music and riders from every US state and dozens of countries. Buffalo Chip, the Rat's Hole Custom Bike Show, and the various manufacturer demo rides are highlights for first-timers and veterans alike.

Global Rider members attending Sturgis can connect through the platform before the rally to coordinate travel, share accommodation, and arrange group rides into the Black Hills. Use the events RSVP to signal your attendance and find other Global Rider members heading to the same rally.