Daytona Beach Bike Week

A few years ago I happened to be in the Daytona area during Bike Week and so got to spend a day wandering around town, freezing my ass off as I recall because it was one of the coldest Bike Weeks ever. But I did decide that I would, one day, return on two wheels and really get to experience the event properly. Unfortunately it’s not in the cards for me this year, but I expect some of my followers will be heading south soon to escape the winter’s cold blast (especially this year) and enjoy some of that Florida heat and hospitality. So when Kiara Wilson of Motorcycle House asked if she could do a guest post about Bike Week I thought it might be of interest. Here it is.
Daytona Beach Bike Week on Two Wheels
With Daytona Beach Bike Week fast approaching residents and officials of the sunny Florida beach town are bracing themselves for the annual event. With over 500,000 attendees Daytona Bike Week is considered the largest motorcycle event in the US and is the go-to event for riders on the East Coast. Comparable to Sturgis, Daytona Beach Bike Week is a once in a lifetime trip for those who enjoy motorcycles. They welcome riders of every kind and have an entire week of events set up. Whether you’re a cruiser rider, sport bike rider, or adventure touring rider there is something for you at this event.
The event itself has been going on since 1937 when it started to promote the Daytona 200 race. However, in the 60+ years since it has become the world’s largest motorcycle event, filled with all sorts of various motorcycle activities. Whether you’re looking to socialize, bar hop, check out bikes, or attend the Daytona 200 race, there are plenty of things to do to keep you busy. The event has dozens of corporate sponsors, so there are also plenty of contests and prizes to be won. Daytona Beach is a unique beach where they allow you to ride your bike on the sand and enjoy the Florida sun. You can enjoy hanging out on the beach with fellow bikers and you never know what celebrity or eye candy you might see on the beach. Check out the International Motorcycle Show or watch the AMA stunting contest, but be sure to find time to enjoy a beer in the warm Florida weather.
However, it’s not all sunny. Motorcycle deaths, thefts and other problems plague the event year after year. Things have significantly improved over the years; however here are some tips for those who will be attending the event. There were 15 deaths last year, 5 of them were accidents involving alcohol. Almost 30 bikes were stolen at the event and 28 were recovered.
So here are our 3 tips for staying safe at Daytona Beach Bike Week.

1. Motorcycle fatalities. Florida is a state where a helmet is not required. It’s just common sense to wear a motorcycle helmet though. With 500,000 other bikers around accidents are bound to happen. The very least you can do is gear up and try to stay safe.
2. Don’t get your bike stolen. There is nothing worse than having your precious bike stolen from you. Stay aware of where you park your bike, especially at night. Motels are especially vulnerable so try to park in a well lit area. Remember that thieves can come with a truck and steal your bike within minutes.
3. Alcohol. We know that alcohol will be consumed. Just be reminded that of the 15 deaths last year, 5 were alcohol related. Countless DUIs were issued to both bikers and drivers. The later in the day the more alcohol becomes an issue. Don’t ride after dark if possible; it might save your life.