Black Hills IRON Riding Season 2018

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riding season

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www.bhpioneer.com

riding season

2018

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Sturgis Motorcycle Museum plans expansion, new facility

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The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame has plans to build a second location near Scott Peterson Motors Sturgis called Heritage Hill that will house the hall of fame, pre-1938 collection and various galleries. They hope to have the facility completed in time for the 80th anniversary of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in 2020. Courtesy photos

By Deb Holland Black Hills Iron

The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum is undergoing a transformation that will leave the museum poised for the future.

Opened in the old Sturgis Post Office on Main Street in 2001, the museum was in need of expansion to help tell the story of the history of the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

On March 19, the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum became an official deed holder. The City of Sturgis turned over ownership of the property located at 999 Main St. to the museum.

An addition of 2,500 feet will be added to accommodate more visitors, house a Sturgis timeline exhibit and add a virtual reality exhibit to the museum.

The museum also is adding a second location on land at the mouth of Vanocker Canyon, off I-90 Exit 32. Plans include an amphitheater for music, more space for vendors during the rally, more exhibits, and outdoor space for non-Rally events. They are hoping to open in time for the 80th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

For that reason, Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame Executive Director Myrick

Robbins has many irons in the fire these days.

He’s overseeing the renovation of the museum at Main Street and Junction Avenue, and spearheading the campaign to build the new museum.

The Hall of Fame portion of the museum recognizes individuals or groups who have made a long-term, positive impact on the motorcycle community. Just this past year, motorcycle royalty Willie G. Davidson was among those honored.

The first phase of the project will cost about $1.5 million and will focus on the downtown museum. It includes an addition to the building on the north. And, a new entrance will be added on the east of the building.

That means that when someone walks in the door of the Main Street location they will see references to 1938 when the rally began. It will include historic displays that pay homage to Pappy and Pearl Hoel and the Jackpine Gypsies.

“It will basically be the timeline of the rally,” Robbins said.

The renovation of the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame has been a work in the works for many years. Plans about five years ago were to make the current location four stories tall with

The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame at the corner of Junction and Main in Sturgis is beginning a remodel that will add 2,000 square-feet of space and move the entrance to the east side of the building. It is scheduled to be completed in 2019. a giant motorcycle façade on the outside.

“It was all very conceptual because to actually do what that showed would have been more costly than just mowing this building down and starting over,” Robbins said. “But, it did get people excited and got the capital campaign rolling.”

Robbins said museum officials knew they couldn’t do ‘big’ on Main Street, but they didn’t want to lose the location at Junction and Main – Sturgis’ motorcycle mecca.

“Why would you want to give up what you had?” Robbins said. “We came up with the idea of keeping

the museum on Main and taking the hall of fame out by the interstate.”

Construction is slated to be done in 2019.

The second location will be called Heritage Hill and be built on land donated by Scott Peterson Motors Sturgis, adjacent to the Ford dealership.

Heritage Hill will house the hall of fame, pre-1938 collection, and various galleries. That project will cost about $5 million.

“The overall facility will give the museum space to offer educational programs, meeting and event space, and a place for the community and visitors to experi-

ence motorcycling, learn about the great people of the Hall of Fame, and their heritage,” said Robbins.

There also will be a cafe and gift shop and areas for restoration and training. It should be ready for the 2020 Rally.

Both locations of the museum and hall of fame will feature virtual-reality rides. The downtown location will feature a ride through Main Street during the Rally. The Heritage Hill location virtual-reality rides will focus on rides through the Black Hills including the ride to Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Devils Tower.

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By Deb Holland Black Hills Iron

www.bhpioneer.com

Sturgis Harley-Davidson draws visitors daily

STURGIS — Sturgis has long been known as motorcycle mecca and Sturgis Harley-Davidson is a must-visit place on the pilgrimage.

Located at 1040 Junction Ave., Sturgis Harley-Davidson is near the epicenter of the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

Long after temporary vendors have packed up their wares and gone home from the annual Rally each August, Sturgis HarleyDavidson continues to draw visitors daily year-around.

“We have tourists every single day, even through the winter,” said Sturgis Harley-Davidson manager Julie Stanley. “We sell many, many T-shirts. And they have to say Sturgis on them.”

What makes Sturgis HarleyDavidson T-shirts unique?

“We have our custom-custom T-shirts that are made specifically for Sturgis Harley-Davidson,” she said.

Popular local attractions dominate the art work on the shirts including Mount Rushmore, Bear Butte, Custer State Park and even

nearby Fort Meade.

“Anything with a buffalo on it is a great seller,” Stanley said.

They also feature a Rally wall with T-shirts heralding the upcoming 2018 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

This year is extra special as Harley-Davidson is celebrating 115 years in business.

But they have much more than T-shirts. There are HarleyDavidson boots, jeans, parts and accessories and even luggage.

“Some of our more popular items are shot glasses, coffee cups, decals and hats,” she said.

Following the milestone 75th anniversary of the Rally, the business underwent an interior makeover with new carpet and tile throughout. It provided a sleek, upscale look to the store.

“We started in January of 2016 to do the remodel,” Stanley said.

They also reconfigured the check-out area. All the checkouts are now along the west wall with floor to ceiling windows behind.

For 23 years, people from all over the country and many foreign countries have made the stop at

Sturgis Harley-Davidson manager Julie Stanley said people are surprised the business is open yeararound and not just during the annual Sturgis motorcycle rally. Pioneer photos by Deb Holland Sturgis Harley-Davidson — at what had been a local grocery store.

Sturgis Harley-Davidson hours

are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays. In June, store hours will change to 8:30

a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. They have extended hours during the Rally.

BLACK HILLS IRON© •All rooms ground floor with outside entrances •Semi covered/at door bike parking •Sports Bar - Beer, Spirits, Fresh baked pizzas, Sandwiches •5 1/2 miles from Main Street Sturgis •Camping Available •Lots of parking

is produced by the Black Hills Pioneer, 315 Seaton Circle, Spearfish, SD, 57783, (800) 676-2761 www.bhpioneer.com bhiron@bhpioneer.com

Letitia Lister, publisher Mark Watson, managing editor Paul Baker, layout The publisher will not be responsible or liable for misprints, misinformation or typographic errors herein contained. Publisher also reserves the right to refuse any advertising deemed not to be in the best interest of the publication. © 2018 BLACK HILLS IRON, all rights reserved.

888-888-9091 · 605-722-7574

600 Whitewood Service Road, Whitewood, SD www.ironhorseinnsturgis.com

Following the 75th anniversary Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in 2015, Sturgis Harley-Davidson moved its check-out area to the front of the store.

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Harley-Davidson wants to teach more to ride

MILWAUKEE (AP) — HarleyDavidson is placing a renewed emphasis on teaching people to ride as part of its efforts to attract more customers.

The Milwaukee-based company’s decision to expand the number of dealerships with a Harley “Riding Academy” comes as the industry grapples with years of declining sales and an aging customer base.

The program launched in 2000 with about 50 locations and now 245 dealerships in the U.S. offer the three- or four-day course. The company says about a quarter of those launched since 2014.

Harley sold 124,777 new motorcycles through nine months in 2017, down from 135,581 during the same period the previous year, according to the company’s most recent earnings report.

The Motorcycle Industry Council says the median age of motorcycle owners increased from 32 to 47 since 1990. About 46 percent of riders are over 50; only about 10 percent are 30-34.

Samantha Kay rode on the back of her father’s motorcycle growing up, but when the 25-year-old took a class to ride for the first time she couldn’t help being anxious.

“I think motorcycles inherently do scare a lot of people,” said Kay, a Milwaukee woman who is one of 50,000 people nationwide who took a riding course at a Harley-Davidson dealership this year.

The training is one of the ways Harley is trying to attract a new generation of riders like Kay amid big demographic shifts.

“Some of the aging Baby Boomers, which have been the guts of Harley-Davidson’s purchasers, they’re getting older and some of them are just getting out of the sport because they can’t handle the motorcycle anymore,” said Clyde Fessler, who retired from Harley-Davidson in 2002 after holding several executive positions over 25 years. He created what became the “Riding

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Courtesy photo Academy.”

He said the idea “is getting people comfortable on a motorcycle and getting them to feel safe and confident.”

In addition to riders getting older, a slow economic recovery has made it harder for millennials to buy new motorcycles, said Jim Williams, vice president of the American Motorcyclist Association.

Among the newest models, a 2018 Softail Slim starts at $15,899 and a 2018 Sportster Forty-Eight at $11,299.

“The younger generations are buying plenty of motorcycles, they’re just not new,” Williams said.

But it’s not all the millennials’ fault, said Robert Pandya, who managed public relations for Indian Motorcycles and Victory Motorcycles. Pandya recently launched “Give A Shift,” a volunteer group discussing ideas to promote motorcycling. One of their conclusions, he said, is the idea that “if mom rides, the kids

will ride.”

Currently, women are about 14 percent of the riding population, according to the Motorcycle Industry Council.

“The biggest possible opportunity in motorcycling is to invite more women to ride,” he said.

That’s not lost on HarleyDavidson. Among the ways Harley-Davidson is trying to reach younger riders is by having motorcycle role-models like Jessica Haggett, the founder of the “The Litas” all-women motorcycle club, be a voice for the company on social media. And the company is also focusing advertising efforts in male-dominated sports like the X Games and UFC events popular with younger viewers.

“I think we have to work harder to gain share of mind with young adults, for example, in that they have other activities in their lives.

They’re on screens, they’re connecting socially, they’re involved in gaming, they’re involved in other things,” said Heather Malenshek, Harley-Davidson’s

vice president of marketing.

She said the easily customizable Sports Glide model that launched in November and the aggressive, performance-driven Fat Bob also have younger riders in mind. In all, the company plans to release 100 new motorcycles over the next 10 years. During that time, the company also wants to gain 2 million new riders.

Terri Meehan took plenty of motorcycle rides with friends as a passenger but has wanted to be in the driver’s seat for a while.

The 42-year-old took the HarleyDavidson riding course in October because she wanted to learn from “an expert who could teach right way versus someone who had learned bad habits.”

The price of the class varies by dealership but it’s generally about $300. Students spend time in class learning about motorcycle safety and on ranges learning to ride.

Meehan plans to buy a motorcycle soon.

“My son’s a psychology major so he asked me if I was going

through a mid-life crisis, which is actually quite hilarious,” said Meehan.

Kay’s experience notwithstanding, another challenge for Harley-Davidson is motorcycling simply isn’t a major part of people’s upbringing like it was once, Malenshek said.

“If you think about Baby Boomers, they probably were brought up on a dirt bike or had an uncle or a neighbor or something who was riding around in a Harley-Davidson. That may not be the case today,” she said.

She said the company’s CEO, Matthew Levatich, is encouraging employees to engage people in conversations about motorcycling if someone happens to say, “Nice bike.” Melanshek took that to heart during an interaction with someone at a gas station who complimented her on her motorcycle and told her he’d never thought about riding.

“And I said, ‘I can get you hooked up with the riding academy!’”

Dream job: Harley-Davidson paid interns get a motorcycle too MILWAUKEE (AP) — HarleyDavidson is offering free motorcycles for those who join its summer internship program.

Eight college students or recent gradu-

ates will have the enviable task of being paid to ride a Harley and share their adventures on social media. And the best part? They’ll keep their bikes at the end of the 12-week internship.

The Milwaukee-based motorcycle maker says it will teach the interns how to ride, compensate them for their work and travels, and let them keep their motorcycles.

Harley-Davidson says it’s looking for

those that have the ability to create content on the fly, are creative and have the talent to take great photos and fun videos.

Applicants must be 18 years or older and looking to pursue a career in social media.

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Deadwood Custom Cycles opens

By Alex Portal Black Hills Iron

A new motorcycle shop has opened at 10 Lee St. in Deadwood.

Deadwood Custom Cycles specializes in custom builds and fabrication, but also focuses on the “meat and potatoes” of the motorcycle maintenance.

“I’ll never be too proud to change oil,” Jason Mook, owner of Deadwood Custom Cycles, said. “The important thing is to keep the bikes on the road.”

Mook relocated to the Black Hills about four years ago from Charleston, S.C., where he owned Jason’s Garage Inc. He put his 16 years of experience working on and building motorcycles to use as co-owner of Black Hills Cycles in Spearfish.

Mook made the decision to open his own shop simply because he loves Deadwood and believes its centralized location makes it the perfect place for a motorcycle destination spot.

Along with Deadwood Custom Cycles, Mook will also open the Gallows Tavern on the premises.

“We have an indoor bar; we have an outdoor bar,” he said.

“What do bikers love to do? Sit outside, talk about motorcycles, look at motorcycles, and watch motorcycles drive by.”

Mook is looking to build a place where bikers and motorcycle enthusiasts of all kinds can congregate to “talk shop, have a beer, and get their bike worked on.”

Mook has also been involved with a work-based learning program at the Lead-Deadwood High School that allows students to get hands on training by working at the shop. “(The students) would travel over to Spearfish, to that shop, and they’re coming here from now on. The principal had mentioned interest in carrying that along,” he said. “I tell you, I’m all about it. Anything to get a kid away from a videogame or a computer.”

For more information, visit deadwoodcustomcycles.com or Jason Mook, owner, stands next to one of his custom bikes in the newly opened Deadwood Custom Cycles at 10 call 717-2492.

Lee St. in Deadwood. Pioneer photos by Alex Portal

Female motorcycle riders are

Adventurous, Strong, and Sexy.

Your clothing should be, too.

Just for Looks Boutique 1006 Main St., Sturgis, SD • 605-720-Hair (4247)

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High School student rebuilds XS Eleven

Deb Holland Black Hills Iron

It’s not often that high school homework involves rebuilding a four-stroke motorcycle engine.

Mark Burkhalter used the rebuild to satisfy the requirements for his senior project at Sturgis Brown High School.

Each year, senior students at SBHS are required to do a project that reflects their accomplishments and interests over their high school years.

Burkhalter bought the bike for $150. He invested countless hours and $1,500 into the rebuild.

And how does it ride?

“Fast!” Burkhalter said. “There is something about rolling the throttle out of a curve that you will never get anywhere else.”

Doing the rebuild may not have been as exhilarating as rolling the

throttle, but it was a great learning experience, Burkhalter said.

“When I started the build, the engine was in terrible condition,” he said.

There was black soot or carbon build-up which Burkhalter explained happens when you have incomplete combustion.

Here’s how it works. When a carburetor sends fuel into the combustion chamber it is then ignited and sent out through the exhaust.

“When you have too much fuel in the chamber then not all the fuel burns off by the time the exhaust valve opens and so some of that carbon gets left inside there,” he said.

Burkhalter said the bike he bought for the makeover showed that it had been in poor running condition for its entire running

life.

“There was carbon buildup on all the valves and seats. That took some time to clean up and get running again,” he said.

On the four-cylinder engine of the Yamaha XS Eleven there are four separate carburetors.

“That makes it incredibly difficult to take apart and clean,” he said. “There are a lot of moving parts.”

Another thing you have to keep in mind when working with older vehicles is that all of the rubber gets degraded over time, Burkhalter said.

“The intake manifold and the rubber boots there and all the rubber components inside the carburetor all needed to be replaced,” he said.

Part of the process of rebuilding the bike included replacing the

brakes. Burkhalter said the bike was missing the second front caliper.

The tank, side covers and the seat all had to be replaced because they were rusted out. Burkhalter had to sandblast the new parts and paint them.

“I had some complications with the paint. It wanted to run. It has a metallic flake in it. I ended up having to strip it down and paint it again twice,” he said.

Burkhalter said the controls on the bike had weathered, so he rejuvenated them using Armor-All. He also sent out the bike’s seat to be re- upholstered.

“It was shot, and I don’t have the know-how to do that,” he said.

Burkhalter explained that he had been interested in motorcycles for the past eight years, so for his senior project rebuilt the Yamaha

motorcycle.

“You just don’t know how much time you will put in on a motorcycle until it’s done.

Everything needs to be recreated in the end,” he said.

Burkhalter works for Gypsie Vintage Cycle and in addition to the Yamaha XS Eleven that he built for his senior project, he also helped build the Jack Hoel edition of 650 Yamaha.

Hoel, of Sturgis, is the son of legendary Sturgis rally founders Pappy and Pearl Hoel. He helped take Yamaha into the four-stroke world, Burkhalter said.

Hoel was in charge of Yamaha’s racing program back in the early 1970’s when the manufacturer had no four stroke or big bore machines. With Hoel’s help and design input, the famed XS 650 Yamaha was brought to life.

Mark Burkhalter talks about what it took to rebuild his Yamaha XS Eleven during the Sturgis Brown High School senior experience judged presentations.

Pioneer photo by Deb Holland

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Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame inductees named

staff reports

STURGIS — The Class of 2018 Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame inductees will be honored during a induction breakfast on Aug. 8.

The breakfast and ceremony starts at 9 a.m. at the Lodge at Deadwood, located at 100 Pine Crest Ln. Tickets for the induction ceremony are on sale now at sturgismuseum.com This year, there are two special honors being awarded.

Honored are:

Freedom Fighter Award

Kirk “Hardtail” Willard

Kirk “Hardtail” Willard has ridden thousands of miles to support ABATE of Wisconsin and Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) events and attends countless meetings to plan and promote the preservation of motorcycle Kirk ‘Hardtail’ riders freedom and Willard lifestyle.

As an active member of ABATE of Wisconsin, he has been instrumental in securing ABATE Acres, a property for the group to have events, conferences and meetings. During the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, Hardtail organizes the Whitewood picnic, a get together for all motorcycle rights activists and ABATE members.

Kirk Willard has served on the Board of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation for more than a decade and is currently serving as a multi-term president of the MRF. He works tirelessly to promote and protect the sport of motorcycling but more importantly he continuously promotes the lifestyle of motorcyclists.

becoming a nationally-known distributing organization. Fox acquired Drag Specialties in 1988.

Today, over fifty years later, Janesville, Wisconsin-based LeMans Corporation—the parent company of Parts Unlimited and Drag Specialties— is the world’s largest motorcycle aftermarket distributor, and employs more than 1,200 people in operations spread across the United States, Canada and Europe. The company’s own brands include Drag Specialties, Thor Motocross, Moose Off-Road, Icon and Z1R helmets and apparel, with many hundreds of other leading brands of powersports products filling pages in the Drag Specialties FatBook and numerous Parts Unlimited and Parts Europe catalogs.

Hall of Fame inductees include: Jeff Decker

Sculptor and historian Jeff Decker is known for immortalizing motorcycling in bronze. Perhaps the most notable of his sculptures is “By The Horns” (also known as The Hill Climber) Jeff — a 16-footDecker tall, 5,000-pound bronze located on the grounds of the Harley-Davidson Museum. His bronze-cast master works depict the synergy of man and machine, particularly historic motorcycles, making him equally well known in both the motorcycling community and the world of fine art. Working full-time at a bronze casting foundry, Decker’s first idea was to capture Man’s quest for speed in all vehicles. His works exemplify the spirit and passion of motorcycling and they belong in a Museum dedicated to these endeavors.

Lifetime Achievement Award Jack Hoel Fred Fox

When Fred Fox started his Parts Unlimited distributing business in Edgerton, Wisconsin in 1967, he was the one and only employee, keeping his inventory in his garage.

Fred Hard work, long hours and a vision Fox of what was possible paid off and Parts Unlimited rapidly grew into a thriving company, first serving motorcycle and snowmobile dealers in and around Wisconsin, before

Hometown resident, Jack Hoel has been a major influence in the development of the Rally, while also having a distinguished career in the world of motorcycling.

From his racing Jack days — including a series of state Hoel titles starting in the 1950s and running up to a 250cc class win at the legendary Daytona 200 in 1964 —Hoel parlayed his hot hand on the track to a gig as manager of the Yamaha Race Team in the 1970s.

While working as Yamaha’s Head of New Product Development, Hoel and his team later created the iconic DT-1 — arguably the most important dual-purpose bike in history — and he was also instrumental in the development of Yamaha’s XS 650. The XS 650 was the first big bore, four-stroke powerplant produced by Yamaha and it continued to shake up the motorcycle racing world for decades. Today, Jack Hoel is passionate about the Rally, its roots in racing and remains a prominent member of the Sturgis community.

Armondo “Mondo” Porras

Mondo Porras has been defining the “look” of motorcycles since 1967. Together with custom builder and founder of Denver’s Choppers, Mondo created some of the first afterArmondo market parts for the burgeoning ‘Mondo’ chopper industry.

Porras Denver’s Choppers globally influential extended springer front ends and custom frames were influential in establishing the “long-bike” phenomenon that is synonymous with “choppers” and still popular around the world. This distinctive look has earned Mondo many awards in the custom bike world. For more than 50 years, Mondo Porras has been building custom motorcycles and promoting the sport.

Through television, books, magazines and producing vintage chopper shows, his influence continues to this day and his peers have even deemed him the “Godfather of Choppers.”

Marilyn Stemp

Together with late husband Dennis, Marilyn Stemp started IronWorks Magazine in 1989.

The publication combined his artistic creativity and passion for motorcycles with Marilyn her experience Stemp as a journalist, organizational skills and attraction to mechanical pursuits. Utilizing their experience in the printing industry and graphic arts, they wanted to ensure IronWorks would not only read well but present motorcycling in a positive manner. Following the last issue of IronWorks in March of 2014, Marilyn launched a new title, Iron Trader News. In the past four years, Iron Trader News’ collaborative and in-

clusive presentation has become a trusted source that entertains and informs on a framework of fairness and integrity.

Marilyn continues the work that she and Dennis began, striving “to elevate and expand well beyond the magazine’s pages and digital reach, bringing partners and readers along for the ride.” She also works for other notable motorcycle related businesses, events and charitable organizations, including the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame, Bikernet and The Buffalo Chip.

Valerie Thompson

“America’s Queen of Speed,” Valerie Thompson holds 7 land speed records! She has exceeded speeds in excess of 300 mph on two wheels at the Bonneville Salt Flats. Her drag racing career spans a Valerie decade driven by a desire to go faster Thompson and break even more records. Off the racetrack, Valerie works as a vehicle presenter at Barrett-Jackson Auction Company and Metro Auto Auctions in Arizona. Between her work, racing commitments and many special appearances each year, Valerie donates time supporting charitable organizations and inspiring children overcoming personal challenges. Because of this work and her racing accomplishments, she was awarded the “American Women Riders Community Hero Award” in 2011.

Hamsters USA

The Hamsters is a worldwide organization of Custom Motorcycle enthusiast, founded in Daytona Beach in 1978.

Founding members are Steve Allington, Barry Cooney, Ed Kerr, Jimmy Leahy, Arlen Ness, Dave Perewitz, Susie Perewitz and Donnie Smith. Members make the annual trek each year to Sturgis Bike Week for their annual gathering for custom bikes, fun and to give generously to local Black Hills charitable organizations. Although many individual members have been inducted into the Sturgis Hall of Fame, the entire group is being inducted into Sturgis Hall of Fame this year for the philanthropic deeds that the Hamsters USA have collectively donated to the Black Hills community over the years.

riding season

2018

Rides, Runs, & Races www.bhpioneer.com

June Jackpine Gypsies Events www.jackpinegypsies.com June 2 - Jackpine Gypsies Short Track - Sturgis 600cc Outlaw Wingless Micros June 15 - Jackpine Gypsies Short Track - Sturgis 600cc Outlaw Wingless Micros June 16 - Jackpine Gypsies Short Track - Sturgis 600cc Outlaw Wingless Micros Rushmore ABATE Events www.rushmoreabate.com June 1-2 – Rushmore Abate Rally Days End Campground, Sturgis June 10 – CMA Social Ride or Drive Windmill Truck Stop, Rapid City 1 p.m.

June 12 – Rushmore Social Ride Rapid City June 15 – BH Supper Ride 6:30 p.m.

June 22-23 – OAHE Fun Run, Pierre

Schedule of Events — 2018

June 26 - Rushmore Social Ride Black Hills Harley-Davidson Events www.blackhillshd.com June 7 – Downtown Summer Nights Rapid City 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

June 9 – Dakota Rods & Classics Spring Car and Motorcycle Cruiz- in June 15 – 16 – Wild Bill Motorcycle Classic June 24 – 5 Annual Ride with the Bishop Sturgis Dragway Events www.sturgisdrags.com June 1 – Street regals June 2 – Bracket racing June 3 – Bracket racing June 15 - Street legals June 16 – Bracket racing/ Sturgis Dragway Small Tire/ Big Tire Shootout June 17 – Bracket June 22 – Sturgis Camaro Rally Drags June 22 – Bracket racing/ Racing Under The Lights!

4 p.m.

July

Jackpine Gypsies Events www.jackpinegypsies.com July 7- Jackpine Gypsies Short Track - Sturgis 600cc Outlaw Wingless Micros July 14 - Jackpine Gypsies Short Track - Sturgis 600cc Outlaw Wingless Micros Rushmore ABATE Events www.rushmoreabate.com July 3 – Rushmore General Membership Mtg. 7 p.m., Eagles July 9 – Black Hills Area Bikers Mtg. 6:30 p.m., N. Haines Hardees Rapid City July 10 – Rushmore Social Ride July 13 – BH ABATE Supper Ride 6:30 p.m.

July 20 – ABATE State Mtg. Pierre July 21st – Moonlight Madness Poker Run

5:15 p.m., Rice Honda July 29 – CMA social ride or drive Windmill Truck Stop, 1 p.m.

South Dakota CMA State Rally Cmancr3.org/pdf/SDak_State_ Rally_2018.pdf July 8-9&10 Kamp Kinship in the Black Hills 12145 Paha Sapa Road, Deadwood Black Hills Harley-Davidson Events www.blackhillshd.com July 28 – 29 – Pre-Rally Rollout 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sturgis Dragway Events www.sturgisdrags.com July 6 – Street legals July 7 – Bracket racing July 8 – Bracket racing July 20 – Street legals July 21 – Corvette Rally 8 a.m.

July 22 – Bracket racing July 10 – 15– 4th Annual Deadwood 3 Wheeler Rally www.d3wr.com

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August Rushmore ABATE Events Aug. 5-11 – Sturgis Rally & Races Aug. 10 – Abate Whitewood Social Hour Aug. 14 – Rushmore Social Ride Aug. 19 – BH Lost Members Ride 10 a.m.

Aug. 25 – Soldiers for Jesus BH Original 21 Run Aug. 28th – Rushmore Social Ride Aug. 3rd – 12th - 78th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Custer Cruisin’ Events Aug. 7 – Mayor’s Ride Aug. 9 – Veterans’ Appreciation Ride & poker Run American Flat Track Events Aug. 5 – The Buffalo Chip TT Presented by Indian Motorcycle SCHEDULE Pg 19

All You Can Eat

Buffets

USDA CHOICE PRIME RIB & CRAB BUFFET Every Friday and Saturday Night!

BREAKFAST with made to order omelets

LUNCH Daily Specials

DINNER featuring USDA Choice Prime Rib served nightly

Every Saturday Night Features Special Cash & Promo Play Giveaways

-5:30pm night • Sun. 11am Fri. & Sat. 5pm-Mid

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Cycles of the three-wheeler variety to roll into Deadwood July 10-15 4th annual Deadwood 3 Wheeler Rally continues to grow

By Jaci Conrad Pearson Black Hills Iron

DEADWOOD — During the course of the fourth annual, fiveday Deadwood 3 Wheeler Rally, more than 300 trikes will make their way to town to take part in an event specially designed to cater to this ever-growing niche biker group.

“This trike rally is really about bonding with others that ride trikes,” said Teresa Schanzenbach. “As organizers we are cognizant of the physical limitations of some of our riders, all the while appreciating the fact that they want to ride scenic roads, meet new people and have fun while doing it. We orchestrate the rally in such a way that everyone attending feels welcome, no matter their age or the make and model of their trike. We do have two-wheeled riders accompanying some of the trikers and that’s never an issue.”

This year’s festivities are July 10-15.

In 2017, the event drew 389 registrants and a total of 253 trikes. This year, that number has grown even bigger.

“We already have 432 people registered riding in on 300 trikes,” said Schanzenbach. “73 percent of these are new to the rally. We average about 28 registrants a week so we potentially could have over 700 pre-registered participants plus the past three years we averaged 15 percent in walk-up registrations.

This rally could very well be the largest to date. This year, we cur-

rently have riders from 38 States, and Canada.”

As in previous years, event organizers are continually making improvements to the Deadwood 3 Wheeler Rally and have several new events planned that should add to the fun.

“This year’s registrants can earn the Deadwood 3 Wheeler Rally Challenge Coin by participating in at least one of five special events that take place on Friday and Saturday. These events include the Deadwood Downtown Walking Dice Run, the Trike Show ‘n Shine on Historic Main Street, the Poker Run, the Trike Games of Skill or the Ride with a Local event. The last two are brand new events in 2018.”

Games that are played in Trike Games of Skill are not typical games. Competition will include, Blind Person’s Bluff, Roadkill Pick-up and more.

“Ride with a Local is an idea that we are taking from the playbook of the Sturgis Rally and already it has been well-received,” Schanzenbach said. “Trikers will go on a destination ride that is led by a local rider from the area. We are looking for local riders who are willing to take a small group of people out to enjoy a ride and eat lunch together. The locals involved can operate a trike or a motorcycle. Locals know the history and cool places to stop and take photos. They are also wellversed in biker friendly restaurants that serve great food.”

As if that weren’t enough, Schanzenbach said the rally

The fourth annual Deadwood three-wheeler rally will run July 10-15. The event continues to grow each year. Pioneer file photos would also feature a music jam session, dubbed “Trikestock.”

“The idea of Trikestock came from a Montana triker who used to ‘jam’ in Kentucky during some of their music festivals,” she explained. “He wanted to do the same here, and we figured why not give it a try and see what happens. We have talked to some locals about helping out and will gather some instruments so the trikers do not have to bring their own. The event will be small this year, but we have visions that it will take off and grow into something much bigger in the future.”

This year’s participants will be glad to know that rides have been scheduled with fewer riders in each group, with multiple departure times for the same route, in an attempt to make the rides safer.

“We are concentrating on creating detailed ride maps and have them available in a variety of forms from print to digital,” Schanzenbach said. “They like the fact there is plenty to do in and around Deadwood but that they can pick and choose to participate in what they want. Some riders come here and completely do their own thing and then show up for the socials so they can visit with other riders.”

While this year’s itinerary focuses on giving riders more time in Deadwood, the schedule is kept pretty fluid until the rally actually starts, in order to accommodate late-breaking changes.

“For example, Friday is one such day where we will keep activities pretty local. Just this week Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers were booked for a concert at Deadwood Mountain Grand on Friday. We changed the schedule around so the trikers can experience a concert there,” Schanzenbach said. “We keep the schedule pretty fluid until the rally actually starts for just that reason. We want to give the trikers a chance to experience Deadwood and South Dakota and whatever may unexpectedly pop up. The trikers appreciate that we strive to give them positive experiences throughout the week and treat them like family.”

All in all, organizers of the Deadwood 3 Wheeler Rally are more than happy with the success it has enjoyed thus far and how it has progressed.

“The positive reviews from those who have been here before and the buzz on social media has been a driving factor in why people are choosing to come

to Deadwood for this rally,” Schanzenbach said. “Trikers tend to be a bit older and want a rally experience that is a bit more low key. They, like any rally, do, however, want opportunities to purchase things for their trikes.”

Of special note is Friday’s VFW Pancake Fundraiser and Trike Show N Shine, organized by the Powder River Trikers of Gillette, Wyo. “We hope the locals and tourists in the area will come to Deadwood on Friday July 13 to enjoy these events,” Schanzenbach said. “This is a People’s Choice competition, so the spectators play an important role. We will also have a 9 p.m. night light parade on Saturday July 14th and we hope the streets of Deadwood will be lined with people of all ages to watch this fun event.”

Anyone interested in participating in this year’s rally is encouraged to contact Schanzenbach at teresas@firstgold.com or call 800-274-1876 ext. 1102. Check out the event website www.d3wr. com for a full schedule or to keep abreast of the latest happenings by liking the Facebook page 3 Wheeler Rally.

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Wild Bill Motorcycle Classic revs up Wild Bill Days

Deadwood will have its own motorcycle festivity as part of Wild Bill Days, June 15-16.

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By Jaci Conrad Pearson Black Hills Iron

A brand new reason to ride, designed to kick start the event offerings surrounding Deadwood’s tried and true Wild Bill Days June 15-16, the Wild Bill Motorcycle Classic revs up during the Wild West City’s celebration of its most famous former resident.

The idea for developing Deadwood’s very own motorcycle event comes from Tom and Julie Koth, owners of Madame Peacock’s Beer & Bling in Deadwood.

“Our vision for the Wild Bill Motorcycle Classic, is to offer the motorcycle enthusiast a chance to get out, ride in the late spring after a long winter, enjoy the beautiful Black Hills, and do so in a less crowded environment. Adding the excitement and entertainment of

Wild Bill Days makes this event even more appealing,” Tom said.

“The only structured event is the Poker Run on Saturday beginning at 10 a.m. from the Lower Main Parking Lot at the new Welcome Center. As for how many bikes we hope to attract, that’s a crap shoot. If 200 bikes show up, I’d be tickled pink! All makes of bikes and bikers are welcome.”

Prior to opening their store in Deadwood six years ago, the Koths were vendors at the Sturgis Rally for 15 years and since then, saw an opportunity to add a biking element to Deadwood’s event mix.

“We had always thought that Deadwood should have its own motorcycle event. So a few years ago when the chamber was looking for ways to increase interest in Wild Bill Days, we thought this

would be a perfect fit,” Tom said.

“We figured that it would add value to the already established celebration. Since the first of the year, we have been putting this together with the chamber’s help and guidance. When the first eight businesses I contacted for sponsorship said yes, I knew we might have something.”

Building the Wild Bill Motorcycle Classic around an existing Deadwood Chamber of Commerce event while blending history with the here and now, is something Koth said will set the run apart.

“I wanted to tie this event with a Deadwood theme. That’s why I put Wild Bill on a vintage motorcycle for its official logo,” Tom said. “Local artist Danial James captured my idea perfectly. I think what will set us apart from other

rallies is the fact that ours features live entertainment both days.”

As part of Wild Bill Days, Clint Black will headline the Main Street stage Friday night and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band Saturday night, with local musicians playing prior to the headliners each night. Along with the music, gold panning and a national Dock Dog event will be held during each day.

“Come on out and take in the party, as only Deadwood could host. Another positive element is that we already have vendors in place or as I like to call them, downtown businesses,” Tom said.

Registration for the poker run will be Friday from noon-5p.m. in front of SickBoy on Main St. and Saturday 8-10 a.m. at the Welcome Center parking lot.

There will be exclusive motor-

cycle parking on the west side of Main St. from Oyster Bay to the Nugget Saloon and the parking lot on the north side of the Celebrity Hotel on Main.

Tom said that overall, the time was just right to introduce the Wild Bill Motorcycle Classic.

“Deadwood as I see it, is in a transition phase right now, with the plazas on Main St. being finalized, a weekly concert series planned, and more retail coming to town,” Tom said. “I think now is the time to create new events and entertainment options.

Deadwood has attracted new, along with established motorcycle related businesses. Scott Jacobs Studio, Jerry Greer Engineering, Deadwood Harley Davidson, Deadwood Custom Cycles, and SickBoy are a few that have chosen to set up in Deadwood.”

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in the Black Hills Pioneer Staff Reports

SPEARFISH — With Sturgis situated in the heart of the Black Hills, the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is the venue for some of the best riding in the country.

From long stretches of highway on the scenic plains to curves and tunnels through the beautiful Black Hills, there is something for every kind of biker here.

The following is a list of our favorite rides.

Nemo Road

Off Highway 385, Rapid City to Brownsville

A nice, lazy ride through some of the less-populated parts of the Black Hills, Nemo Road offers amazing views, twisty turns, and straight highway stretches that promise bikers entertainment and relaxation. Just one trip down this road and you will understand why Sturgis Rally veterans call this “The best kept secret in the Black Hills.” The Nemo Bar & Grill also offers bikers great food and cold drinks for a scenic break from the road that is filled with first-class hospitality!

Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway

S.D. Highway 240, Badlands National Park

An approximate 30-mile ride, this highway cuts through the natural rock formations of Badlands National Park. A

Spearfish Canyon on Two Wheels

If you’re a regular attendee of the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, chances are you’ve ridden Spearfish Canyon at least once, and probably more frequently.

Spearfish Canyon is older than the Grand Canyon if you can believe that! It’s smooth, well maintained, and its curvaceous pavement is a joy to ride for any bike/ motorcyclist. The 35 mph speed limit allows the canyon walls to talk back to you in the form of your motorcycle’s reflected exhaust note. If you’ve never ridden the canyon, it’s about time you did. It’s an unforgettable motoring treat for any rider or driver. Keep your eyes and ears peeled for excessive speed vehicles; some riders can’t resist a little extra speed. Keep your eyes on the road though; you can stop almost anywhere in the canyon to take a longer

favorite of bikers who flock to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, this route also features natural grasslands that are filled with hundreds of different species of plants and wild animals. Scenic overlooks also offer great photo opportunities.

Custer State Park 13329 U.S. Highway 16A, Custer

Custer State Park isn’t just home to one of the largest free roaming buffalo herds; it’s so beautiful that the State Game Lodge served as the summer White House for President Calvin Coolidge in 1927.

This 71,000-acre vacation paradise is home to abundant wildlife and buffalo herds, making it common to encounter a “Buffalo Jam” while driving in the park.

Look for elusive elk, deer, big horn sheep, mountain goats, and bands of begging burros. Four distinct lodges offer accommodations to suit every family, from rustic and historic to elegant and upscale. All offer unique on-site activities, including Jeep rides to the buffalo herds, guided fly-fishing, and chuckwagon suppers. There are also endless camping opportunities in the park.

Crazy Horse Memorial

12141 Avenue of the Chiefs, Crazy Horse (near Custer)

Crazy Horse Memorial is the world’s largest sculpture-in-progress, and frequent drilling and mountain blasts make each visit unique. When completed, Crazy

look at one of the many different spots of interest. Starting at the mouth of the canyon at the extreme east end of Spearfish, the road takes vehicles past the golf course and into the verdant and summer leafy steepwalled canyon. Halfway up the canyon is Spearfish Canyon Lodge, a great place for lunch if you don’t want to wait to arrive at Cheyenne Crossing, world famous for its burgers and hospitality. A quarter-mile hike down the trail-footpath below the lodge will get you to Spearfish Falls; don’t forget your camera. If you skip the lodge stop, and continue almost another 10 miles, you’ll get to the aforementioned Cheyenne Crossing at the junction of Highway 85. Make a left and head for Lead, S.D. It’s an uphill climb away from Cheyenne Crossing, and the speed limit is 55 mph. Throttle up, but stay within the speed limit. Continue through Lead, then Deadwood, and before you know it, you’re in Sturgis. See you on the Road.

— Buck Lovell

Sundance, Wyo., to Devils Tower

Sundance, Wyo., sits astride Interstate 90 approximately 53 miles west of the city of Sturgis. With a population of 1,139 souls, Sundance is visitor friendly, especially during Sturgis Rally days, and hosts a permanent full service HarleyDavidson dealer with everything from T-shirts to leathers and rain gear. I recommend you start this ride during the mid-morning hours and return during the evening. If you do this, you’ll have the sun at your back both directions. Leaving Sundance northwest on Highway 14, it is a continuous uphill climb into heavily timbered wild territory with panoramic views all around. The speed limit is 65 mph unless otherwise posted; you probably won’t get into sixth gear on the way up to Devils Tower. Pay attention while on Highway 14: wild deer abound.

If you see one, there are probably several more nearby, their favorite pastime being unexpectedly dashing across the road after hearing the noise from your loud pipes. When you get to the junction of Highway 14 and Highway 24, you’ll turn

Horse Memorial will stand 563 feet tall.

The project was started in 1948 by sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski and Lakota Chief Henry Standing Bear to honor the heritage, tradition, and culture of North American Indians. Its namesake, Crazy Horse, was a war leader of the Oglala Lakota tribe and a prominent leader in the Sioux resistance to white encroachment in the Black Hills. His bravery and skill are admired, and he is revered by the Sioux as their greatest leader. The complex surrounding the mountain carving includes the Indian Museum of North America, the Native American Cultural Center, the Sculptor’s Studio, and a 40,000-square-foot orientation center and theater. Nightly performances of a multimedia laser-light show spotlight American Indian culture using dramatic animations and a stirring musical score.

In June, the Crazy Horse Volksmarch opens to hikers a 10K route that winds around the base of the mountain and up onto Crazy Horse’s outstretched arm.

Korczak’s wife and family have continued the project and the Crazy Horse Memorial Foundation. An entrance fee is required to enter the

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northbound to finish the ride to Devils Tower National Monument. At several locations midway from the junction to Devils Tower along Highway 24, spectacular views of small canyon escarpments with rocky overhangs beg for attention from you and your camera.

As you continue riding uphill, the top of Devils Tower will begin to be visible as it rises above the horizon. At 5,112 feet above sea level, Devils Tower is the predominant landscape feature of the area. The rocky tower itself is a full 867 feet from its base to the summit. The Belle Fourche River slowly meanders away eastward 1,267 below the tower.

When heading back to Sundance, preferably in the mid-evening hours, the long slow descent makes it easy to enjoy the grand views of the terrain and typically white clouded blue skies. So majestic is the roadside scenery here, you may find yourself wanting to make this ride more than once, with the images of the first riding sticking in your subconscious. Total mileage here (round trip) is approximately 56 miles, give or take a burnout.

— Buck Lovell

memorial, which is open year-round, and good for one day of admission.

Proceeds fund further development of the memorial.

Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway U.S. Highway 16A/S.D. Highway 87, Custer State Park

This ride is so cool that it deserves mentioning apart from Custer State Park! The 70-mile drive offers amazing views of the best the Black Hills has to offer. This scenic drive incorporates the Needles Highway (S.D. Highway 87) and Iron Mountain Road (U.S. Highway 16A). The Needles Highway features hairpin curves, drive-through tunnels, and massive granite formations that draw climbers from all over the world.

Iron Mountain Road features pigtail bridges that were constructed in a corkscrew fashion, as well as drive Top Rides Pg 17

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Wildlife Loop Ride: Really Wild

If you’re looking for a short ride in between other Rally-related activities, and you’re in the area of Custer State Park, Wildlife Loop Road is perfect.

The road itself is very well maintained black top with almost no surprise potholes or other impediments to smooth riding. Don’t even think of going on this little sojourn without some kind of camera, even if it’s just the camera in your cell phone. Wildlife Loop Road has a strictly enforced speed limit of 35 mph, but if you are like most annual visitors here, you will be stopping frequently to either let the buffalo and other wild critters cross the road in front of you, or to just have a good long look. You won’t find many motorcycle rides that will give close-up views of wildlife as seen here. In many cases, these critters will hold up traffic as they stand blocking the pavement and stare in amazement at you and your

Top Rides from Pg 15 through tunnels that perfectly frame Mount Rushmore.

Lead-Deadwood

Separated by just three miles of highway but forever joined in their rich history of mining and gaming, the Black Hills’ own Twin Cities offer something for everyone! Visit the Black Hills Mining Museum, Homestake Visitor’s Center, or the Adams Museum to see the rich mining and old-west history of this section of the Northern Hills; relax for lunch or dinner at one of the many fine establishments in both

vehicle. The rolling hills and wide open grassland scenery is studded with many varieties of pine and other trees of all sizes making for very pleasant riding.

Wildlife species to be seen here in Custer State Park include antelope, bighorn sheep, buffalo young and old, white tail deer, elk, coyote, prairie dogs, and all manner of flying fowl including bald eagles and other raptor species.

Custer State Park is home to one of the world’s largest buffalo herds. These buffalo live almost as they did before the West was tamed. Every year a roundup is held with buffalo harvested from the ever-growing herd. Wild “begging” burros live and play at the southernmost end of Wildlife Loop.

While the ride along Wildlife Loop Road is only 18 seemingly short miles and could take as little a 30 minutes to transit, you may find it taking just a little bit longer due to frequent stops to enjoy both the animals and the almost “as it was in the 1850s” view. I almost always do this ride both directions during the same day. No burnouts on this ride: it would only frighten the critters.

— Buck Lovell towns; browse through the unique selection of gifts and supplies in Lead; or try your luck at a gaming table or slot machine in Deadwood. But most importantly, residents of Lead-Deadwood are ever-cognizant of the Rally and welcome the bikers with open arms. In Lead, bikers can enjoy vendors, entertainment, and bike shows throughout the week, and in Deadwood, bikers enjoy special parking privileges and other perks!

Belle Fourche

The name “Belle Fourche” is French for “Beautiful Fork” because of its site on the “Forks” of Hay Creek, Redwater River, and Belle Fourche

River. Additionally, the quaint little town is known for its status as the geographical “Center of the Nation.”

After the addition of Hawaii and Alaska to the United States in 1959, a point 10 miles north of Belle Fourche was named the official geological center of the United States. The site was originally in Smith Center, Kan., before it was moved to its new home in Butte County. Visitors can have their photo taken at the monument of a 21-by-40 foot compass rose made of South Dakota granite located at the Center of the Nation Visitor Center in Belle Fourche.

Wind Cave National Park

26611 US Highway 385, Hot Springs

Caves are one of the Black Hills’ most mysterious and intriguing wonders. To do your exploring underground, visit Wind Cave National Park. Stretching more than 100 miles, Wind Cave is one of the longest caves in the world, and the first cave to be designated a national park. With a mazelike, underground chamber system, Wind Cave features the world’s largest concentration of box work, a rare formation of thin calcite fins that resemble honeycombs. Above ground, Wind Cave National Park includes a wildlife sanctuary of 28,295 acres for antelope, bison, elk, prairie dogs, and other creatures to roam.

Here, the ponderosa pine forest meets the rolling prairie, one of the last remaining mixed grassland areas in existence. The cave’s visitor center is open daily except holidays. An admission fee is required to tour the cave. A list of tour options can be viewed at www.nps.gov/wica.

Native American Scenic Byway

This 305.8-mile route takes bikers through the rich history and wildlife attractions of our

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American Indian population. It cuts through the heart of South Dakota’s grass prairie through the heart of the great Sioux Nation.

The route takes travelers through Yankton, Crow Creek, Lower Brule, Cheyenne River, and Standing Rock Sioux Tribes.

Along the way, bikers will have a chance to see some wildlife, including prairie dogs, pronghorn, deer, bison, and elk.

Jewel Cave National Monument

U.S. Highway 16, 13 miles west of Custer

Located in the scenic Hell Canyon Ranger District, the ride to Jewel Cave is a gem in itself with scenic overlooks, hairpin turns, and some wildlife sightings. But once bikers get to the cave, they are absolutely encouraged to stop and stay awhile! Jewel Cave National Monument is not only the second-longest cave in the world, at more than 140 miles and counting, it is also one of the most structurally complex. Located a little more than an hour southwest of Rapid City, Jewel Cave is a regional gem tucked in the Black Hills. Exploration is ongoing in this pristine underground labyrinth. Visit chambers decorated with calcite, nailhead, and dogtooth spar crystals and other wonders like draperies, flowstone, and stalactites. The monument’s surface trails and facilities are open free of charge. A fee is required for cave tours, which are ranger-guided and are moderately strenuous, lasting about 1 hour and 20 minutes.

The cave is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. except on holidays. Cave tours have been known to sell out in advance; therefore, waiting times could be several hours. Visitors Top Rides Pg 18

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Top Rides from Pg 17 are encouraged to call ahead for tour availability and to reserve tickets. Visit www. nps.gov/jeca for more information.

Mammoth Site

www.bhpioneer.com ceremonies to this day. Also, Bear Butte was once used by multiple tribes as a meeting point to discuss the advancement of the white man onto their lands. Bikers at the Sturgis Rally can take advantage of the hiking trails to the top of the mountain, or just cruise on by the natural wonder located six miles northeast of Sturgis off Highway 79.

1800 U.S. Highway 18 Bypass, Mount Rushmore Hot Springs 13000 SD Highway 244, More than 26,000 years ago, large Keystone Columbian and woolly mammoths were trapped and died in a spring-fed pond near what is now the southwest edge of Hot Springs. Discovered in 1974 while excavating for a housing development, the Mammoth Site is the world’s largest Columbian mammoth exhibit and research center for Pleistocene studies. It is truly a unique and natural location for the state.

Bear Butte

Highway 79, Sturgis

It’s simply not possible to come to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and not see one of the Black Hills’ natural wonders — Bear Butte. But seeing it and experiencing it are two different things, and all bikers should take in the scenic beauty and spiritual feeling of this site, named “Mato Paha” (Bear Mountain) by the Lakota Sioux for its resemblance to a sleeping bear. This geological formation is one of several intrusions of igneous rock in the Black Hills that formed millions of years ago. The mountain is sacred to many American Indian tribes, who go there to hold religious

Who can take a trip to Sturgis without stopping to see our nation’s Shrine of Democracy? Every year that visit gets better as there are continual improvements at the famed monument! This internationally recognized “Shrine of Democracy” is located only 17 miles from Rapid City. Surrounded

by Black Hills National Forest, the memorial protrudes from the granite with the faces of George Washington, commander of the Revolutionary Army and our nation’s first president; Thomas Jefferson, author of the Declaration of Independence; Abraham Lincoln, who abolished slavery in the U.S.; and Theodore Roosevelt, who reformed corruption and is responsible for our national’s national parks system and for conserving wildlife. The site also features mountain goats, the Avenue of Flags, an interactive museum, and a new visitors’ center. Visitors can also follow the Presidential Trail to the base of the mountain.

An evening lighting ceremony is also a sight to see during the summer months, and it begins at 9 p.m. Additionally, if you’ve already traveled the common route to the

Belle Fourche to Sturgis via Bear Butte

Riding from Belle Fourche to Sturgis via Bear Butte can only be described as the open prairie or high plains ride.

Imagine yourself back in the 1880s riding a spirited four-legged horse.

When departing from Belle Fourche traveling eastbound on S.D. Highway 212, I recommend this route be traveled during the later part of the afternoon.

You will then have the sun over your right shoulder. Make sure you have your gas tank filled completely, for you will have no opportunity to gas up between Belle Fourche and Sturgis city limits, unless you divert north to Newell at the junction of Highway 212 and Highway 79. The speed limit on 212 is 65 mph unless otherwise posted. Riding 212 can only be reckoned to riding your horse at full gallop across the plains, but staying at 60-65 mph is the best speed to enjoy this fluffy cloud-studded, blue-sky route.

Make a point of checking the weather forecast for prevailing winds. Prevailing winds in August are typically west to east, which will give a very pleasant

mountain through Keystone, try entering through the back way on Highway 244, which offers some unique scenic sights and a relaxing ride through the Hills.

tailwind from Belle Fourche to Highway 79 southbound. When leaving Belle Fourche, the first major landmark will be Belle Fourche Reservoir on the left (north side of the highway). There are several small towns with cafés serving home-cooked style food and cold drinks, which are well worth stopping. The smooth pavement and long radius curves of Highway 212 are punctuated by hills and rises, so for safety’s sake don’t attempt to pass on those blind curves.

Take your time and enjoy the view to the south of the Black Hills. They look black from out on the prairie; that’s how the hills got their name. At the junction of 212 and 79, you’ll turn right heading toward Bear Butte. If you’ve had a tail wind, it’s now a crosswind, so stay alert.

Also watch for deer on the road. It’s almost a straight shot to the outskirts of the city of Sturgis. You will be able to enjoy an ever changing view of Bear Butte as it grows larger the closer you get. Just before passing Bear Butte, you see the Broken Spoke Campground on the left. Continuing another 5-6 miles, you’ll make a right turn onto Highway 34 (westbound) on the way into downtown Sturgis. Total distance is about 55 miles, give or take a burnout.

— Buck Lovell Read more from Buck at BLABB (Buck Lovell’s American Biker Blog) online at www.sturgis.com.

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www.bhpioneer.com Buffalo Chip, Sturgis from Pg 9

SCHEDULE AFT Singles Main Event TBD Aft Twins Main Event 9 p.m.

Aug. 7– Harley-Davidson Black Hills Half-Mile Black Hills Speedway AFT Singles Main Event TBD AFT Twins Main Event 9 p.m.

Black Hills Harley-Davidson Events Aug. 1 - 11– The Rally at Exit 55 – 78th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Aug. 1 ­- 2– 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Aug. 3 - 10 – 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Aug. 1 - 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Buffalo Chip Campground Events www.buffalochip.com Aug. 3 – The Flaunt Girls 7:05 – 8 p.m.

Pop Evil 10:30 p.m. to Midnight Aug. 4 – opening band TBA 7:05 – 8 p.m.

Red Sun Rising 8:30 – 9:45 p.m.

Foreigner 10:30 p.m. to Midnight Aug. 5 – Theory of a Deadman 10:30 p.m. to Midnight Aug. 6 – 11 Annual Legends Ride Opening band TBA 7:05 – 8 p.m.

HEADLINER TBD 8:30 – 9:45 p.m.

Lynyrd Skynyrd 10:30 to Midnight Aug. 7 – Opening band TBA 7:05 – 8 p.m.

The Marshal Tucker Band 8:30 – 9:45 p.m.

Aaron Lewis 10:30 p.m. to Midnight Aug. 8 – Street Drag Invitational with Crazy John 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.

Hooligan Races 4 – 7 p.m.

Headliner TBA 8:30 – 9:45 p.m.

Eric Church 10:30 p.m. to Midnight

Aug. 9 – Opening band TBA 7:05 – 8 p.m.

Lita Ford 8:30 – 9:45 p.m.

Kid Rock 10:30 p.m. to Midnight Aug. 10 – AMA Supermoto Races 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Opening band TBA 7:05 – 8 p.m.

Yelawolf 8:30 p.m. – 9:45 p.m.

John Kay & Steppenwolf 10:30 p.m. to Midnight Aug. 11 – AMA Supermoto Races 4 – 7 p.m.

Opening band TBA 7 – 8 p.m.

Queensryche 8:30 – 10 p.m.

Chevelle 10:30 p.m. – Midnight

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ALL TRIKES WELCOME!

JULY 10-15, 2018

Full Throttle Saloon www.fullthrottlesaloon.com Aug. 5 – Blackberry Smoke Aug. 6 – Trace Adkins Aug. 8 – Steel Panther Molly Hatchet Aug. 9 – Jackyl Aug. 11 – Tech N9ne Aug. 6 - 16th Annual Mayor’s Ride Sturgis Dragway Events www.sturgisdrags.com Aug. 3 – Street Legals Aug. 4 – Small Tire/ Big Tire Shootout Aug. 5 – MC Rally – Move in and Test & Tune Aug. 6 – MC Rally – Nitro Drag Qualifying Aug. 7 – MC Rally – Nitro Drag Finals Aug. 8 - MC Rally – Held Open for rain/ make up day Aug. 9 – MC Rally - S&S Demo Rides Aug. 10 – Diesel Drags Street Legals Aug. 11 – Diesel Drags Shootout Aug. 24 – Kool Deadwood Nights – Poker run/ Street Legals Aug. 25 – Bracket Racing/ Sturgis Dragway Small Tire/ Big Tire Shootout Aug. 26 – Bracket Racing Aug. 31 – Mustang Rally Poker Run/ Street Legals All dates and times subject to change without prior notice. Not responsible for misprints or errors. If you would like to include your event in our listing please send to alex@bhpioneer.com.

poker run destination rides parade socials entertainment food vendors contests prizes & FUN

END T T A O T S N A L P E K A M THE 5TH ANNUAL

JULY 9-14, 2019 Funding for the Deadwood 3 Wheeler Rally is provided in part by Black Hills & Badlands Tourism Association For more information or to register: 800.274.1876, ext. 1102 email: teresas@firstgold.com

www.D3WR.com Courtesy photo

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