Thunder Roads Colorado Magazine Volume 10 - Issue 1 | Page 8

Thunder in the Rockies T his year marked the tenth annual Thunder in the Rockies, the largest bike rally in Colorado. Occurring on Labor Day weekend at the Thunder Mountain Harley-Davidson® dealership in Loveland, Colorado, the rally brought an estimated crowd of nearly 50,000 motorcycle enthusiasts of together from across the country to share their passion for freedom in the wind. The rally included high-powered entertainment, events and activities, including concerts with national entertainment acts Bret Michaels, Jackyl, Blackberry Smoke and Moccasin Creek. The Harley Davidson Demo Tent brought test rides of the 2015 HD models to attendees (with a valid motorcycle endorsement). Those that attended also had the opportunity to 6 Thunder Roads Magazine® Colorado ride some of the most breathtaking, scenic riding in the USA. show, the Miss Hooters Thunder in the Rockies Bikini Contest. “Our rally has really taken on a unique feel. It is the uniting of a brotherhood, the gathering of kindred souls that share the passion for freedom in the wind.” said Jill Almirall, marketing and event manager at Thunder Mountain Harley-Davidson®. The rally started at noon Friday, Aug. 29 and rolled throughout the weekend with biker-related vendors, shows, entertainment and activities running throughout the event. The ride this year, the Forever Family Ride, with a route up Thompson Canyon to Estes Park was led by Jesse Dupree the lead vocalist for Jackyl. The fundraisers benefitted Realities for Children charities, a non-profit organization for children who have been abused, neglected or are at-risk. Realities for Children is a local charity partnering with 150 local businesses coming together to benefit the needs of local children. Along with the evening concerts and the vendors, other activities were available including the Rhett Rotten Wall of Death, the Suicidal Lifestyles Stunt Team, Extreme Midget Wrestling Federation, the 2014 custom bike October 2014 If you have not visited Thunder in the Rockies in the past, try it next Labor Day weekend for a great rally experience. – Patrick McCauley www.thunderroadscolorado.com