Thousands flock to Muskegon for annual motorcycle rallies

MUSKEGON, Mich. (WOOD) — The largest motorcycle rally in the state of Michigan is expected to bring out thousands of people from all over the state and the Midwest to Muskegon.

It’s an annual spectacle in Muskegon stemming back nearly 20 years. From Wednesday to Sunday, thousands of bikers will put their helmets on, start their engines and cruise in for Muskegon Bike Time.

“What we are trying to do is showcase the Muskegon area and one of the ways we are doing it is by telling the world to come here for five days of fun,” Muskegon Bike Time board of directors member Tim Lipan said.

He said the guests traveling to the city have an economic impact of almost $17 million over five days.

“All of these folks are coming from out of town, they are bringing brand new money which is really good. And they are staying in our hotels, they fill up our campgrounds, they are buying gas, they are going to our restaurants, they are going to our bars, they are shopping at our malls. So that’s quite an economic boom.”

The rally features five days of festivities free of charge — bringing people from near and far of all ages out to enjoy.

“Michigan is a great place to have this kind of event, you got the coastline, good weather and excellent people,” biker Jon Pietka said.  

Rebel Road, another bike event happening in conjunction, raises money for the Child Abuse Council of Muskegon County.

Full schedules of events can be found on the Muskegon Bike Time website and the Rebel Road website.