After just finishing up our review of the Moville Days car show and the Leeds Show and Shine car show, this bike rally we’re about to go to is the perfect transition. Plus, we already
After just finishing up our review of the Moville Days car show and the Leeds Show and Shine car show, this bike rally we’re about to go to is the perfect transition. Plus, we already in Leeds for our last post, so we’ll head up the road to Ickey Nickel, which hosts some of the best events in town. Keeping with the transportation theme, motorcycles are a favored mode of passage during the summer months for about 10% of the US population. One of my best friends up in Sioux Falls rides a Harley, and has even been inducted into a local motorcycle girl gang.
This camaraderie that Katie has been able to experience is not uncommon amongst motorcycle enthusiasts. From the celebration of freedom on the open road, to a shared passion for the thrill of the ride, motorcycle rallies unite riders from all walks of life and backgrounds.
History of the Motorcycle Rally
In the early 20th century motorcycles became commercially available for purchase, and the allure of these two-wheeled machines quickly captivated adventurous individuals. One of the first “rallies” was the Gypsy Tour in July of 1917. Held in New Hampshire, it was sanctioned as the FAM (Federation of American Motorcyclists). Riders would embark on long rides, often traveling to scenic destinations and camping along the way.
Another famous bike rally is the Daytona Bike Week. Originating in January of 1937, this “rally” first began as a motorcycle race at the iconic Daytona International Speedway. Located at the one-and-only Daytona Beach in Florida, this rally has evolved into one of the most iconic motorcycle-related activities in the world, with roughly 500,000 bikers making the trek to this 10-day extravaganza.
A year and a half later, and almost 2,000 miles away, yet another infamous bike rally was established in August of 1938. Closer to home, and effecting our part of the states is Sturgis. Growing up in Iowa, my mom and I would always see groups of motorcycle riders heading up north this time of year. In fact, even though Sturgis is the first week in August, riders from all over the world make their way here to camp and start their summer in the Mount Rushmore State. Surrounded by historic sights such as the Badlands National Park and Deadwood, this has become more of a multi-week to seasonal vacation for many. An estimated 7,000 people live in this sleepy town year-round, but during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, this number grows to an estimated half a million! Meaning local businesses gear up for a show-stopping week. I even have a friend who decided to travel up to Sturgis and helped out one of their local bars. Jessica ended up making close to $9,000 dollars just in those seven days!
To HOG, or not to HOG
With hundreds of thousands of bikers, you can imagine the thunderous sound heard from miles away, and one of the names bikers give their two-wheel machines is the “hog”, but did you know that it is an acronym for Harley Owners Group (HOG)? And that this “club” is now the largest factory-sponsored motorcycle club in the world? Founded in 1983 by Harley-Davidson, the HOG now has over one million members world-wide, extended roadside assistance, inspection benefits and special Harley-Davidson rewards. So, as you can see, it is not just a group, it is an internationally recognized organization with chapters in over 90 countries.
But Harley-Davidson is not the only bikes you’ll see at a rally. From vintage Indian motorcycles, to a Honda Rebel, and even maybe a BMW Motorrad, the variety will surprise you. In fact, some of the smaller rallies across the US cater to special interest groups, such as custom bikes, women riders and military veterans. But one of the most popular reasons neighborhood motorcycle rallies get their start, is for charitable causes. The unique camaraderie and shared passion that exudes within these local chapters helps build excitement and a following behind such charities, such as fighting diseases, aiding local communities, and even supporting our leaders at state and federal levels, thus making an overall positive impact for the next generation of riders.
You been Nickel’d and Dimed
The Ickey Nickel Biker Nights is no exception. Partnering with the Siouxland Miracle Riders (http://www.miracleriders.com/), an organization that helps fund the St. Luke’s Children’s Miracle Network, the local chapter here in town goes above and beyond to make sure all donations and sponsorships help as many children as possible.
Having never been to a bike rally before, and technically I still have yet to attend one, I decided to head out to Ickey Nickel early before the crowds arrive to check out their facilities. In the past, I’ve come out here for their wing nights, and one of my old coworkers had her wedding reception here. Celebrating their 26th year in business, and having such a large venue, it’s a no=brainer that they decided to host Biker Nights. In fact, in their parking lot they have almost a whole section dedicated to motorcycle parking, and as you drive in posted on one of their exterior walls is a giant, embellished sign in the shape of a motorcycle.
Getting their volleyball sand pits ready for a busy night, the crew was prepared for over 100 bikers to fill up their bar and surrounding land. Due to my current work schedule, I was not able to stay for the next day’s kickoff event, so I went the day before, allowing me to get a behind the scene’s view of this iconic bar. In addition, to Biker Nights, Ickey Nickel also hosts live musicians, Nickel nights on the patio every Thursday, and multiple fundraiser events throughout the year.
With an outdoor venue hosting volleyball leagues, horseshoe tournaments and a golfing range this is easily every local’s pick for a cool down on those hot summer nights. And by reaching out and partnering with fellow small businesses and non-profit organizations, the Ickey Nickel knows how to show their support for Siouxland. So, make sure to check out their Facebook page for an updated schedule of events, and make sure to plan your date night, or get some friends together for some competitive sand volleyball.