There’s nothing quite like hopping on your bike and riding down the winding roads of the Hill Country, experiencing the peaceful bliss of driving down the coast or immersing yourself in the hustle and bustle of rolling through the city. Whether you’re an experienced rider or just bought your first motorcycle, you know that the sense of camaraderie that comes with being a motorcyclist is hard to beat. Next time you’re about to head out, grab your buddies and check out these motorcycle events that Texas offers throughout the year. We’ve compiled a list of our favorites including massive rallies, hand-built customs, and more.
Progressive Dallas Motorcycle Show
Every rider knows that the best bike is your next bike. That’s why we’re ready for the Progressive Dallas Motorcycle Show at Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center on January 3-5, 2020. Explore dozens of new bikes—both custom and stock—with demo rides, vendors galore, and plenty more to keep your bank account empty. This show is also great for introducing people to the two-wheeled world thanks to hands-on opportunities with the Discover the Ride initiative.
Thunder in the Hill Country
A spring ride through the winding roads of the Texas Hill Country is at the top of most riders’ annual to-do list, and for good reason. The weather is brisk, the trees are blooming, and you never know what’s around the next turn. Thunder in the Hill Country is a three-day ride out of Bandera put on by Biker Rallies of Texas that promises an old school rally with plenty of riding during the day and partying at night. Get ready for the next event on March 26-29, 2020, for a great Hill Country weekend.
The Handbuilt Motorcycle Show
Taking place April 3-5, 2020, in Austin, the Handbuilt Motorcycle Show is a gearhead’s dream. Founded by Revival Cycles, this show is a conscious attempt to bring riders back to the culture of physical craftsmanship and is an incredible spot to see one-of-a-kind machines from all different builders with deep knowledge of their craft. The bikes on display are truly works of art that just so happen to be able to rip up any asphalt under them. Happening the same weekend as Austin MotoGP, the Handbuilt Motorcycle Show is one seriously cool stop you need to make.
Republic of Texas Biker Rally
The Republic of Texas Biker Rally (ROT) takes place in Austin around Memorial Day, and boasts nearly 35,000 paying attendees every year. Since its inaugural rally in 1995, ROT’s four-day fest has hosted performers such as Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Jerry Jeff Walker, and other Texas music legends. The whole rally is a celebration of riding, but the Friday night street party is estimated to attract nearly 200,000 spectators for a parade that ends on Congress Avenue in front of the Texas State Capitol. The 25th ROT Rally takes place June 11-14, 2020 with tickets available starting early December 2019. You don’t want to miss this one!
Lone Star Rally
Everything’s bigger in Texas, right? The Lone Star Rally on Galveston Island claims the title of the largest rally in the country with more than 250,000 riders attending every November. With live music, car shows, organized charity rides, and a custom bike show to brag about your ride, you and your fellow riders will have a jam-packed schedule of activities. Set your sights on November 5-8, 2020, for the opportunity to ride in a truly massive rally complete with ocean views.