Daytona Bike Week 2011
Unlike some bike events that attract one segment of the bike population, Daytona Bike Week has it all from the cool-out set along Bethune-Cookman Blvd, the hard core chopper scene, stunts, the International Motorcycle Show, sport bikes, demo rides and of course the Daytona 200.
First up, the Daytona 200. This year’s AMA Pro Racing season got off to a controversial start. Race officials red flagged the Daytona 200 for a mandatory tire change late in the race affecting all riders after spec-tire partner Dunlop witnessed issues with front tires overheating within the rider’s first pit stops. Coincidentally on the same lap of the red flag, Team Latus Motor Racing’s Jason DiSalvo’s Ducati 848EVO experienced mechanical problems, a blown engine to be exact essentially taking him out of the race. However, during the red flag delay, Team Latus was allowed to perform the necessary repairs with approval from AMA enabling Jason to compete in the remainder of the race. After a very lengthy delay, the race finally resumed with a decision to finish the 200 in a 15 lap sprint with Jason DiSalvo taking the checkered flag.
After the 200, it was time to hit the street scene and one of my favorite spots, Bethune-Cookman Blvd. Although not as the large as the Main Street scene, make no mistake this strip attracts some of the hottest bikes the streets of Daytona has to offer regardless of the type of bike you’re rolling on. And killing the scene were the immaculate baggers of Twisted Cycles hailing out of Coshocton Ohio. From custom baggers and choppers to over-the-top creations such as a three-wheeled Busa rolling on what looked to be at least 22’s, this strip is the place to be. And nowhere else in Daytona can you get down with home cooking such ox tail, turkey legs and fresh fried fish to fuel your soul.
At the convention center was the International Motorcycle Show with everything motorcycle related you could ever need from clothing, helmets, gadgets and of course new bikes from all major manufacturers. But, you’re in sunny Florida and want to be outside. No problem. Over at the Speedway, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, Star, Kawasaki and others offered demos rides throughout the day on just about their entire line-up.
As for the sport bike scene, La Marvilla’s Sport Bike Fest had it going on with custom bikes, promo girls and participants such as heavy weights Roaring Toyz and XDL National Stunt Competition. Moving the crowd were Deejay DVS and Deejay Arsonist, Hype Mike from FLNY Ryderz and 102 Jamz’ Jay Love. More than $5,000 worth of merchandise was raffled off including two all-inclusive trips to Jamaica courtesy of Hedonism Resorts with La Marvilla Productions providing the grand prize; a Suzuki GSXR 600 won by Rita Sugey Rojas. Also appearing and assisting with the raffles was Mr. Rickey Gadson who must have had twin with the amount of ground and events he attended. More than 45 clubs with an estimate of 1,500 people attended the sport bike fest with FLNY Ryderz, Thug Rider MC and Forbidden Souljas being the most repp’ed clubs. Afterwards, it was time hit up the ICON Limiter Live Show with Team No Limit’s Jason Britton and Erick Hoenshell, Team Empire’s Ernie Vigil and Nick “Apex” Brocha with special team member “Shin” all the way from Japan. Keeping the audience amped was mc/rapper J. Pigg complimented by Sport Bike Inc’s Publisher Allan Lane along with the wickedly tasteful ICON fashion models and dancers. Oh yeah, and leading a pack of bikes from the Sport Bike Fest and making a grand entrance at ICON’s show was Rickey Gadson – the man was everywhere.
Daytona’s Bike Week is truly one of the events you need to check out at least once. With the variety of sights, demo rides, races and street scenes, you will not be disappointed.
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