Gravel Road with Higher Risk Awaits Sturgis Rally Bikers

To all the motorcycle enthusiasts waiting for the 84^th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally 2024 to start, the show is about to begin. There are a few days left. The Sturgis Rally will take place on August 2, 2024, and will continue to entertain riders until August 11, 2024.

The event is expected to attract a larger number of riders this year. Considering the planned events, concerts, and scenic rides and loops, it is going to be a hit. However, one thing doesn’t look good for the bikers planning to attend this rally.

The recent update regarding Highway 385 has disheartened many Sturgis fans. The Highway has one of the most scenic views. The beauty of the Black Hills is at its peak around here. Many riders attending the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally use this route (Highway 385) to reach South Dakota. Also, many of the planned rides and loops, particularly the Mayor’s Ride, have been rerouted.

The construction project, known as U.S. 385, has recently started. This ongoing project has caused some serious damage to a long stretch of U.S. 385. It is open for traffic because it is one of the main routes to Sturgis. However, the gravel road can become extremely dangerous for riders coming to Sturgis, particularly when they will be coming in large numbers.

Ron Waterland, the former Sturgis City Council member, recently stated the News Watch:

Ron Waterland is an experienced motorcyclist who loves to ride, particularly in the scenic area of Black Hills. He frequently uses the Highway 385 to ride around town. He also noticed that there wasn’t only a single patch; many gravel patches were waiting for the bikers to make things riskier for them.

The timing of the project can make things difficult for motorcyclists who take this route. The South Dakota Department of Transportation (DoT) initiated this construction project to make Highway 385 safer for traffic. The U.S. 385 reconstruction is a $72 million project, including widening the road. The tight curves will be made smoother. Almost 15 miles of the U.S. 385 road will be reconstructed. The timing may not be correct, but it is an anticipated project, as the accident and fatality rate was double the average rate in South Dakota.

It is safe to ride on the gravel patches on Highway 385 as long as the traffic rules and speed limit are followed. Riders must also consider their experience when riding through the gravel patches.

Riders attending the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally usually have cruisers, touring bikes, and baggers. It is mainly because you have to travel long miles to reach Sturgis. Sturgis Rally is all about riding motorcycles. While cruisers and touring bikes are suitable for traveling long miles, they could be more stable on gravel roads.

Motorcycles can easily slip on gravel roads, making it challenging for a rider to balance a heavyweight motorcycle. Inexperienced riders are advised to be extra cautious while taking this route.

To ensure the safety of motorcyclists, the Sturgis Rally organizers have re-routed the very famous “Mayor’s Ride”. This annual ride usually took riders to ride through Highway 385. However, this time, the registered riders will enjoy the Devil’s Tower in Wyoming instead of Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore.

To all those who will be using Highway 385 to reach the Sturgis Rally on the 2nd of August, make sure to ride slowly and safely. If you are unsure about riding on gravel roads, it is recommended to take a different route. For those who are experienced enough to ride on gravel roads, there are still chances that you can get your motorbike damaged. Therefore, stay attentive and keep a safe distance while coming to Sturgis.