This weekend the Republic of Texas Biker Rally 2012 will fill the streets of Austin. Having registered over 50,000 participants per year in recent years, the rally has a reputation for breaking records and burning rubber. Guinness World Records certified the RoT parade as “The Longest Parade of Motorcycles Known to Mankind” in 2006.
What is the Republic of Texas Biker Rally Exactly?
Taking place in East Austin, the RoT biker rally is yet another unique Austin tradition. This year it starts Thursday, June 7th and runs through Sunday, June 10th. In addition to the record-breaking amount of motorcycles, RoT brings many famous musicians and attractions with it. This year Ted Nugent, Shooter Jennings and Gov’t Mule will share the stage with other bands. In addition, the Republic of Texas Car Show will be driving across the city, showing off custom and antique cars.
This is a big event for any motorcycle or auto enthusiast. The biggest Texas biker rally, in fact. Nearly everybody and anybody in the Texas bike scene will be in attendance for the partying, festivals and pretty ladies. Custom chopper guru Jesse James of West Coast Choppers and Austin Speed Shop will hang out and judge a few of the bike events. He will be offering a custom-built trophy for the winner of the “Best In Show” motorcycle competition.
The rally is held a week after Memorial Day as a way to honor those who have served
It’s difficult to list the massive amount of attractions that RoT brings to town. If you want to experience a cross-section of the whole weekend event, visit the downtown area on Friday night. The city of Austin has agreed to shut down fifty-four blocks of downtown to host what has been dubbed ‘the largest biker party in the downtown area of a metropolitan area.” Oh, and it’s large indeed. Over 200,000 spectators are projected to attend this year’s bash.
Expect a loud and exciting Friday night in downtown this weekend.
Get there early enough on Friday and you’ll catch Travis Pastrana work his dirt bike magic during the FreestyleMX event. Also, you can look forward to the RoT 2012 Tattoo Expo as well. The events I have listed barely scratch the surface; expect a packed weekend.
Where, When and How Much?
Tickets are still available for The Republic of Texas Biker Rally 2012. You can buy them online or at the gate for a non-refundable $60.00, which gets you in for the whole four day event. Day passes are not sold separately.
The engines ignited today at 8:00 a.m.
Check it out at Travis County Exposition Center: 7311 Decker Lane, Austin, TX 78724.
@DustyVegas asks:
What are you looking forward to at RoT 2012?
Photos are courtesy of Mirsasha and Alex Thomson, respectively.
