At the end of each summer, four of the greater-Milwaukee Harley-Davidson dealers put on a show celebrating everything Harley. During the Milwaukee Rally each of the dealers puts on a big party with some of the largest national accessory vendors, food, drinks, entertainment, and of course a ton of bikes. Special events and concerts go on throughout the whole city and neighboring areas including events at the H-D Museum, tours of the H-D engine manufacturing plant, and free concerts at the closed to traffic, downtown Water Street.
State Fair Park hosted the 2011 model bikes and demos along with lots of bargains on leathers and apparel and the Allstate Garage with a chance to win a Dave Perewitz chopper. There were seminars on safety and women riders while the music cranked at the Bud Pavilion featuring Jackyl, Chasin’ Mason, and Four Lane Highway.
I had the pleasure of being a guest of Hal’s Harley-Davidson for last summer’s event and it was a great way to wind down the end of the riding season. Thousands of motorcycles showed up at Hal’s despite unseasonably cold and wet weather. Aside from the top-notch vendors present at Hal’s, there were safety demos, and amazing live music from blues great Greg Koch. Attendees got to taste some amazing barbecue while listening to the scorching blues. Also during the Rally, Hal’s speed and performance guru, Rob Schopf took attendees through the building of a big bore Twin Cam live on stage. Rob and his crew spun the wrenches and explained the how and why of what was going on throughout the build.
In my two full days there, it was hard to get to see and do everything. I did manage to get myself lost repeatedly while riding a Hal’s provided Road Glide. I guess that was part of the fun, getting to explore the home of Harley-Davidson. If you’re not from the area Hal’s has a full rental program with models to suit every rider. A special thanks goes out to the entire Hal’s H-D crew, and specifically owner Kirk Topel (Hal’s son), and service manager Dennis Bublitz. I’m looking forward to getting back, spending more time there, and exploring more of the area.
Get out to Milwaukee this September 1-5, 2011 for a unique citywide rally. Check out milwaukeerally.com for events and more information. B