Daytona Bike Week 2012

Hot Bikes, KickAss Bands, Booze Flowin, Babes, and Special Events….the kickoff party for the 2012 riding season is almost here….

Daytona Bike Week 2012

March 9 – 18 2012

Even tho old school bikers know bike week in Daytona has changed alot from its original image and spirit held back in the early years, it signals the beginning of a new riding season for many riders across the country. Even those who ride, but don’t attend the week long party, feel the energy this rally seems to spread throughout the riding community. I think it’s safe to say, everyone in that community knows of it, when it is, where it is, and what is going on there. I also think, all riders, whether they are old school, hardcore, weekend warriors, or just enthusiasts, would feel a loss in one sense or another if Bike Week were to disappear.

This rally probably has the biggest love/hate opinion swing of any of the rallies held across the country. Most old school riders resent the corporations taking over and showing their presence everywhere you go. They resent the local law enforcement breathing down their necks on every issue. Rules, rules, and more rules. There’s resentment against all the plastic and fashion show riders that seem to be taking over the event they started back in 1937. Crowds are large, lines long and gawkers in abundance. They will all agree, this event is nothing like it used to be.

But for many riders, the change is ok. This event is the first big rally of the year. The first chance to enjoy the company of other riders from around the country. The first chance to raise a beer and kick back with so many others in the riding community. The weather usually co-operates and is a welcomed break from the closed in, stir crazy feelings that come with every winter. It’s a party, with people we may not know, but most times, respect and understand. I truly believe, it’s for this reason Daytona Bike week draws such a large number of participants.

Although we half resent all the corp muscle being thrown around, we should thank them for all the sponsored events and entertainment they bring to this rally. There may be resentment towards the Corp bike builders, but they still bring bikes we enjoy seeing and picking apart. It may be an entirely different style rally then years ago, but I can accept that. Knowing what to expect, and not expect, is half the battle in finding a good time. The rally changes don’t change who you are, who you prefer to kick back, BS, and drink with, or how strongly you feel about your true brothers and sisters in the riding community. If you have a need to bitch about the changes in Daytona, look me up. You can bitch all you need to about the price of the beer you are buying me 

Next writing, I want to toss around some info on events that look interesting. Not sure which I will check out, which I will pass on. Getting sidetracked by good friends is usually a great, welcomed plan buster. All I know for sure, is no plan is the best plan at rallies. No schedules, no commitments, just take it as it comes. But let’s see what’s going on there, maybe I’ll get there.