Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

First, below is the 2024 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally information. A history of the Sturgis Rally and information on the events and attractions are included. In addition, there are South Dakota motorcycle laws. Finally, there are the Sturgis motorcycle helmet laws.

Next, we will regularly update this page because Sturgis is important to riders. Specifics have not been announced at the Sturgis biker rally. But here is more about the Rally and what regularly happens.

History of the Sturgis Rally

First, without a doubt, the Sturgis Rally is the Mecca for bikers. In addition, Sturgis is also one of the three national rallies. The other national biker rallies are Daytona Bike Week and Laconia Motorcycle Week. The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is on LightningCustoms.com’s Major Motorcycle Rallies List annually.

Next, here is a quick history of the Sturgis Rally. In 1938, “Pappy” Hoel began an event. He used the name the Black Hills Classic in Sturgis. Interestingly, the race only had nine riders and few attendees.

Eventually, there was a change in the name from the Black Hills Classic to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Over the following decades, Sturgis has become the premier biker rally in the World.

What Happens at Sturgis?

So, what is going on at the 2024 Sturgis Rally? Simply put, everything you have ever heard of that happens at a rally goes on at the Sturgis Biker Rally.

First, there are the rides in the Black Hills region:
-Devil’s Tower
-Mount Rushmore
-Crazy Horse Memorial
-Custer State Park.

In addition, there are endless top-shelf attractions at the main venues at the Sturgis bike rally:
-Broken Spoke
-Buffalo Chip
-Full Throttle Saloon
-Downtown Sturgis

Also, many events are held around the entire Black Hills region. And this includes the famous Sturgis bars, dealerships, and other venues during the Rally.

Next, here is a partial list of things happening at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
-Top-name bands
-Biggest and best motorcycle shows
-Bike build-offs
-Motorcycle racing
-Chance to visit the Sturgis Museum & Hall of Fame.
-Group rides
-Poker runs
-Field events
-Biker games
-Displays
-Tattoo contests
-Stunt shows
-Contests for the ladies
-Big rig setups by the largest motorcycle companies
-Vendors

You should check out websites for details because there are many venues with many events during the Sturgis Rally. Those sites will also have a complete list of events happening. Finally, the fees for different Sturgis biker rally venues and events vary.

Sturgis Motorcycle Laws

-Sturgis Helmet Laws – In South Dakota, if you are over 18 years old, you do not need to wear a motorcycle helmet. However, the South Dakota motorcycle helmet law does require riders under 18 years old to wear a DOT helmet.
-Eye Protection – Eye protection is the law while riding during the Sturgis Rally or anywhere in South Dakota. There are two options: 1, glasses or goggles, or 2, a windshield high enough to protect the rider’s eyes. Note – Only clear sunglasses can be worn after dark.
-South Dakota Passengers Seat Laws – If you’re going to have a passenger at the Motorcycle Rally, they must have a seat. Riding on a fender is not allowed in Sturgis or South Dakota.
-Riding Side-by-Side – It is illegal to ride side-by-side in SD.
-Lane Splitting – You cannot lane split anywhere in South Dakota.

Here are more details on the South Dakota motorcycle laws you should know for the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally: https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/Codified_Laws/2054730 and https://southdakotarides.com/motorcycle-safety/laws/.