We're considering going to Sturgis this year, in the company of my uncle (a long-time HD rider). However, his group is going the week prior the "official" Sturgis rally. Is this a benefit? A downer?

All input welcome.

 

I went this past summer and if I can ever afford to go back, I will go the week before. Most if not all vendors will be there and about half the bikes. Everywhere you go are bikes. Had to wait 5-20 mins to get gas most eating places are packed with bikers. Not to mention, most places, prices are inflated.(stopped at one place to eat and the cheapest item on the menu was an $8 burrito. Also, there a a lot of bikes on the roads.Now don't get me wrong, I do want to go back, just the week before.Hope this helps...

 

Absolutely. My uncle said that one or two days of Sturgis are enough and the rest of our time up there will be for touring around the area (Black Hills, etc). I do have to say I'm bummed about missing Steve Miller...but at $50 per ticket, I can live with it. LOL

 

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I agree, I have gone a few days before and this past year the week of... I will not go back in the middle of it again.
I will go back the week or even 3 days prior till and the riding is much more enjoyable and as someone else said most of the vendors are there a week prior till.

I personally enjoy the rides much more than all the vendors

 

Yes it is full of bikers. Yes it is crowded. Yes you have to wait in line to get gas. But if you have not been there before and you love riding and the lifestyle, do not miss this rally. The week before is definitely not as good as THE week. Just my opinion.

 

whos Steve Miller?

 

If you go the last day the t-shirts are cheaper!

 

Went in 05, going back this year. We were there during the rally itself. Never had any trouble getting around or getting gas. A good time was had by all. I suggest you go during rally week and hang out at the Full Throttle and Thunder Road. Shoot me a PM and I'll hook up with you while we're there. Don't miss it for anything.

 

Next time I go, It will probably be the week before. But if you've never been, try to check it out during the rally. Most of the time you will be riding aound the area, its great. Be careful in Custer Park, the Buffalo get a little irretated by the end of the rally. We got charged twice by a buffalo, lucky for us, he was only trying to warn us. But I'll tell you what, that is one scary deal there.