It may be most famous for the Daytona 500 (and its great beaches), but cars aren’t the only things racing in Daytona. The city is home to the state’s two biggest motorcycle events – Bike Week in the spring and Biketoberfest in the fall.
Daytona’s passion for pro bike racing officially began in 1937 with the first run of the Daytona 200. Now, Daytona is recognized as a top biker’s destination, thanks to the city’s biker-friendly attitude – and of course, these two annual events.
Held for 10 days every spring, Bike Week bills itself as the “World’s Largest Motorcycle Event” and regularly welcomes a half million motorcycle enthusiasts with racing the Speedway, bike shows, street festivals, concerts, rallies, swap meets – even treasure hunts. Of course, one of the hallmark events of bike week is the ride down historic Main Street and Beach Street along U.S. Route 1 as well as the scenic loop through Ormond Beach.
In the fall, Biketoberfest is the place to be. Although considerably smaller – “only” about 125,000 bikers attend this four-day, long-weekend event – there’s just as much to do – just less time to do it. Motorcycle rallies, manufacturer events, live music and, of course, the scenic rides along U.S. Route 1 and other routes, as well as racing at the Daytona International Speedway – it’s all here and more. For visitors from up north, the event is great way to wrap up the warm-weather biking season – until Bike Week in March, that is.
For both events, you can expect local merchants, restaurants, bars and lounges to pull out all the stops. Many serve up lots of live music and other entertainment in addition to contests and giveaways. Both events also offer a great opportunity to connect with other motorcycle enthusiasts as well as plenty of chances to see and experience new products.
You can find more info about both events by visitinghttp://www.daytonabeach.com/events/motorcycle-rallies/.