Great Rides

As the week in Sturgis began to wind down, Saturday was a mix of activity and relaxation. Some riders stayed back at the houses to rest up, catch up on laundry, and start packing for the ride home. Others weren’t quite ready to slow down yet—venturing back into Sturgis for last-minute tattoos, some serious people-watching, or to explore more of Full Throttle Saloon and Buffalo Chip.

After exploring Mount Rushmore, Iron Mountain Road, and Custer State Park, the DHOG crew was ready for more—and Sturgis definitely delivered. We kicked off the next leg of our adventure with a ride along the legendary Needles Highway, twisting and turning through the spires and tunnels. Unfortunately, a tragic accident blocked the return route, reminding us all how quickly things can change on the road. Out of respect, we rerouted and continued the day with a visit to Black Hills Harley-Davidson, where we wandered through rows of vendors, bike accessories, and souvenirs.

The Journey to the Black Hills Begins. Three groups. One destination. A thousand memories in the making. This year’s DHOG Sturgis adventure kicked off with riders heading out in three waves. One group left earlier in the week to take their time and soak in the scenery. Another truck rolled out Saturday, hauling gear and prepping the way. The largest group departed Friday—13 motorcycles, one car, and 16 excited riders and passengers with the open road ahead and Sturgis in their sights. Their first day’s destination: Amarillo, Texas.

  We all buy bikes for different purposes. I have owned Suzuki’s, Honda’s, BMW’s, Yamaha’s and two Harleys for one reason, to see the backroads of America for the past +45 yrs. Latest trip, solo 7108 mi in 15 Days. What a trip! Mother Nature threw everything at me. Seventy plus mph winds East of Laramie, Wyoming at the Sherman Summit. Flurries and Sleet on the Elk Bend pass in Idaho, lots of rain that slowed me down some, no surprise in the NW. Mid 50's to over 100 degrees in a matter of hours.

Look at Mike's adventures at the Great River Lower Road Touring Rally.

2016 Great Southwest motorcycle trip