With Daytona Bike Week fast approaching, it's time to fire up the riding season by getting ready to head down to Florida for one of the largest motorcycle rallies in the world. This historic event will give bike enthusiasts from across the country, a chance to steep themselves in bike culture. And some of the biggest names in the industry will be on hand to help participants navigate a range of products, accessories and events.
This year, Corporate Harley-Davidson is moving from the beachside Ocean Center complex to the park across the street from the original Daytona Harley dealership on Beach Street. This new venue allows closer contact with Harley enthusiasts and of course offers the opportunity to purchase bikes while at the event. There will be lots of activities there too - as is customary with H-D corp. Some of the events include expos, pin pick up and many other rider favorites.
Cycle World is returning to Bike Week after a five-year absence. The Cycle World International Show will feature everything from tricked-out customs and stunt shows to the latest street bikes.
Outside of Daytona International Speedway, motorcycle enthusiasts will also be able to test-ride the latest and greatest motorcycles with free manufacturer demo rides and displays. Some of those expected to attend are Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Harley-Davidson, Victory, Triumph and Boss Hoss. Riders must hold a valid motorcycle driver license and DOT approved helmet in order to participate in the demo rides.
To help get that adrenaline going, Bike Week participants can check out some high-speed ASRA/CCS road-racing action at the Daytona International Speedway February 27 and 28.
For AMA Pro Racing, the 69th Daytona 200 By Honda race will be held under the lights on Friday night, March 5. This is the American Superbike season opener, and star riders expected to be in attendance for the AMA Pro Racing events include Josh Hayes, Ben Bostrom, Jason DiSalvo, Tommy Hayden, Blake Young, Josh Herrin and Jamie Hacking.
The AMA Pro Racing Flat Track events on Wednesday, March 3, and Thursday, March 4, will have a new home in 2010 - a quarter-mile dirt track made up of lime rock located outside Turns 1 and 2. The new quarter-mile dirt track, which will have more than 5,000 temporary seats and lighting from Musco Lighting, will showcase Flat Track stars such as Kenny Coolbeth, Chris Carr, Jake Johnson and Joe Kopp.
The toughest and most prestigious Supercross in the country, Honda’s Daytona Supercross will be held on Saturday night, March 6. The course will continue to be one of the most challenging AMA Supercross layouts in America thanks to Ricky Carmichael’s Signature Course Design. Star riders expected to compete include defending champion James Stewart, Andrew Short and Ryan Villopoto. And if Chad Reed is healed from his crash during round 2 of AMA Supercross, he'll also be there.
Aside from motorcycle races, demos and shows Bike Week goers will also be treated to concerts and parties in some of the most scenic surroundings in the world. Be sure to mark your calendar. The 69th Daytona Bike Week begins February 26.
