For the first full week of every March, motorcycle riders nationwide escape the end of winter cold for 10 days of steaming hot Florida sun at the Daytona Beach Bike Week. Nearly 500,000 people attend the event annually, rivaling the world-famous Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota. The Daytona rally is one of the four major U.S. motorcycle gatherings.
It all got started back in 1937 when the first Daytona 200 was held on a stretch of beach and road located just south of Daytona Beach. This exciting race on the hard sand beaches was held annually until World War II. At the outbreak of the war, organizers decided to suspend the race so valuable supplies could be redirected to the military effort. People from around the area still gathered in Daytona Beach during the race week anyway and the rally was formed.
In the late 1940s, the race resumed. Residents of the area were asked to offer lodging to visiting motorcycle enthusiasts because many of the hotels were beyond capacity. Neighborhoods welcomed the crowd and the event was wildly popular.
Unfortunately this harmony didn’t last for long. After some years, the rally demographic began to lean more toward the “rugged” biker crowd. Area natives began to fear the now unwelcome visitors and law enforcement numbers increased. By the mid 1980s, everything had begun to settle down and now the entire Volusia County region enjoys an extremely enjoyable 10 day motorcycle rally.
During the event, accommodations of every type are available. The area boasts a number of hotels, resorts, and campgrounds with RV access. Some residents leave the area for the 10 day span and often rent out their luxury homes and condos. Ocean front rentals tend to fetch a hefty price.
Riders are treated to a number of stunning views as they ride along the Atlantic Coast. There are a number of leisurely road routes in the area that provide a wonderful glimpse of Florida’s natural beauty. A few different locations host a majority of the vendors and include events such as concerts and custom bike shows. Local beach bars all throughout Daytona Beach are the perfect night spots to park and party. Many towns up and down the coast have joined in the fun and have begun offering events to lure bikers away from Daytona Beach.
Whether you love to ride or just love the sand and sun, the Daytona Beach Bike Week is the perfect way to kick off your riding season.
E. B. Chuong writes articles about recreational vehicles, and outdoor activities. Isn’t it time you give Vemar helmets a closer look? Challenge yourself, and see why Vemar helmets are your best choice for top speed riding.