AMERICADE

Overview

Americade began 40 years ago as an all-comers rally that was then considered an “alternative” to the heavily Harley-dominated events. Honda was a huge sponsor and continues to support the event, which is touted as a “touring rally,” focusing on the idyllic Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York and the nearby Green Mountains of Vermont. Lake George, NY, some 200 miles north of NYC, is a town built on pastoral tourism. The area offers laid-back lake boat rides, shopping, dining, beaches, and a broad range of amusements. Some 75,000 motorcyclists riding all makes and models are expected, enjoying perhaps the most activity-packed rally anywhere. The schedule includes trade shows, seminars presented by industry experts, stunt shows, fireworks cruise, historical attractions, festival of lights, ghost tour, custom bike show, motorcycle parades, charity poker runs, vintage bike show, comedy clubs, guided and unguided rides into the mountains, major vendors, nightclubs, and according to organizers, the largest factory demo fleet of any motorcycle event, representing most brands. Be advised, June weather in the Adirondacks can be hot and humid or cold and wet, so pack wisely.