The 85th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally (August 1–10, 2025) proved to be a roaring celebration of iron, grit and glory. The brotherhood stepped up and made it worthwhile for everyone, with almost no visible criticism in mainstream media. In finality, traffic into Sturgis surged by 11.3% over the previous five-year average, with 537,459 vehicles entering during the ten-day event.
Visitor numbers rose sharply, with 576,000 visits in the first week, a 12.5% increase from the prior year.
Epic celebrations of lifestyle and culture, of adventure and thrill — happened to be:
- Gloria Tramontin Struck, now 100 years young, who reigned as the Grand Marshal, having been a Motor Maid since 1946
- daredevil Colby Raha, who broke the Harley-Davidson world-distance jump record, soaring 205 feet at the Thunderdome after several intense attempts
Safety concerns seemed under control and well-managed by the people of Sturgis and the administration.
This iconic rally’s social, cultural, economic, and independent spirit was vividly on display. If you were at the 85th edition, feel free to share your experiences or photos by email to Wayfarer@Bikernet.com
Let’s relook at how the legacy as an iconic, thriving celebration of motorcycling was illustrated by people, motorcycles, places to see and shop, and most of all the comradery of a loyal, honor-driven community.
Photos from Felicia Morgan
Compiled by Wayfarer
Associate Editor, Bikernet.com
