RTR CHAMPIONSHIP BIKE SHOW SERIES March 2023 UPDATE!

This year we’ve more than DOUBLED the area covered by our show series, adding new shows throughout the Midwest – and we’ve just gotten started! . After doing these shows for more than 12 years, its great seeing how many connections and friendships that have developed over the years between folks coming to the shows. There’s a common bond that exists between riders – and there’s even more of a connection between the folks that take the time to restore, customize, or even create their own bikes. People start talking about what they’ve built, what they have at home, and what they rode up to the show. And this year – we are doing even more to help facilitate those discussions and really ensure that everyone has a great time at the show!

It's important to recognize that these are INFORMAL, RIDE-IN SHOWS! While we do use Judges at most shows, the majority of the votes come from the crowd. These are fun shows with the emphasis on camaraderie more than competition. If you’ve ever stormed out of a show after not winning the big trophy – these shows aren’t for you. We’ve always believed that the best thing about our bike show series is the people that both exhibit and attend. This isn’t just about the bikes – but about the people building and riding them as well

All makes, models, and years are truly welcome at the RTR Bike Shows. We have over 15 distinct classes for bikes, and we are constantly adding more as the shows evolve. We group bikes by style and origin, and try to balance things out as much as possible. Categories include designations for Imported and Domestic, Touring, Trikes, Vintage, Racing, and even Radical. Specialty classes include Custom Paint, Patriotic and Military themed bikes, and even a Ladies Class.

Even if you’ve never participated in a Bike Show before, these shows are for you if you have a passion for your bike. Go ahead and bring her out – and PUT HER IN THE SHOW! Make sure that you check out our events listing on Facebook and follow the ones that are of interest to you. We will be posting updates and more details about the new programs as things are finalized. www.Facebook.com/ReasonsToRide

Bike of the Nights!

As always, the RtR crew will be out and about hitting various Bike Nights, Rides, and other events throughout the upcoming riding season. At select events, our team will now be recognizing one or two bikes as “BIKE OF THE NIGHT” as part of the 2023 Championship Bike Show Series –presented by Michigan Biker Law.

The owners of these motorcycles will receive a special trophy and invitation to participate in an upcoming bike show – sponsored by the magazine. We will also be featuring some of these bikes in the magazine and / or online.

At some locations, such as Arsenal Harley-Davidson in Waterford Michigan – we will be regularly presenting a BIKE OF THE NIGHT Trophy as part of their Bike Nights! Follow them or us on Facebook for more details!

If you’d like our crew to stop by your Bike Night or other event, just email us with details and contact information. Email us at Events@ ReasonsToRide.com

Thunder Zone Vendor Areas

For the larger weekend shows, we often host THUNDER ZONE Vendor areas as part of our layout. These vendor areas offer a tremendous opportunity to reach not only thousands of riders – but far more, as many of the events embrace the entire community, drawing attendees from throughout their regions. Many of our shows are part of rallies and events with more than 10,000 in attendance, several more than 50k, and even a few 100k plus! And for all of our Tour Stops – we work with vendors to ensure a seamless, successful experience. However, at most – space is limited! So, email us ASAP to get on the list and reserve your spots! For a complete schedule and more information on vending at these events, email BikeShowInfo@ gmail.com

Upcoming 2023 Shows

Looking forward, we’ve made a commitment to further developing the Bike Show Series – with the addition of more shows across Michigan and the Midwest. More than DOUBLING the area covered by our show series this year – we can’t wait to see the show grow with more unique vintage and custom motorcycles.

Wild Turkey Bike Show

So go ahead and mark it on the calendar – OHIO BIKE WEEK, the LARGEST MOTORCYCLE EVENT IN THE MIDWEST, May 26 – June 4th. And the OHIO BIKE WEEK BIKE SHOW – June 3rd!

Wild Turkey Festival, McArthur Ohio May 4-7, 2023

Reasons To Ride will once again be kicking off the BIKE SHOW SERIES in the rolling hills of Southern Ohio – with the 38th Annual Vinton County Wild Turkey Festival. This is some of the best riding in the Midwest – essentially an asphalt roller coaster – and in the midst of it all is McArthur, Ohio.

Last year’s show featured some amazing bikes; including 80 year old European bikes, custom choppers with intricate metalwork, and In our second year, we will be expanding to include more bikes, options for camping and official hotels, and a BIGGER THUNDER ALLEY with motorcycle vendors!

Ohio Bike Week Bike Show

We are anticipating that feature bike space will be limited, so we are encouraging everyone to REGISTER as soon as possible for this show. We will be reserving space and assigned spots for bikes that have pre-registered online. As previously, registration will be discounted in advance AND you get a FREE RTR Exhibitor Bike Show Shirt! We will be accepting bikes the day of the show – but only as space allows and priority will be given to the pre-registered ones.

RAY C’S RODEO DAY NEW SHOW!

Ohio Bike Week - Sandusky, Saturday, June 3, 2023

Reasons To Ride is pleased to announce that we will once again be hosting the OFFICIAL OHIO BIKE WEEK BIKE SHOW in downtown Sandusky on Saturday, June 3rd – right on the WATER! This will be an informal, Ride-In, Bike Show following the RTR Championship Bike Show Series Rules and Procedures.

While always subject to change, our plan is to be right back at the same location we had last year in the midst of the WORLD FAMOUS BLOCK PARTY! If you joined us in 2022 – you know how amazing the location is. We’re literally surrounded by water on 3 sides –with the main stage in the background!

Ray C’s Harley-Davidson, Lapeer Michigan – Saturday, June 17th

For the 17th Edition of Ray C’s RODEO DAY, Reasons To Ride will be coming to town and adding the CHAMPIONSHIP BIKE SHOW SERIES to the day’s excitement. Joined by Michigan Biker Law, we will be showcasing the best bikes in the region including extra OFF-ROAD CLASSES! We will also have the DYNO’s running ALL DAY in order to recognize and the MOST HORSEPOWER!

Special SHOW SHIRTS for pre-registered exhibitors!

STARS, STRIPES AND BIKES! NEW SHOW!

Bikes On The Bricks

Town & Country Sports Center, Cement City, Michigan –

Saturday, June 24th

A NEW STOP on the Series Schedule – we are joining our friends from Foundation 14 for their annual MOTORCYCLE PRESENTATION and kicking things up with a BIKE SHOW at Town & Country. T&C already has a great collection of motorcycles to view everyday at their dealership museum, but we’re certain that the Ride-In Show will add some extra thunder to the day! Did we mention that there will be LIVE MUSIC and FREE Dyno Pulls as well?

Arsenal Bike Show

Arsenal Harley-Davidson, Waterford Michigan -

Saturday, August 26th

This show, presented by Michigan Biker Law, welcomes all makes and models and features over 40 trophies – including the chance for a BEST IN SHOW Championship Series Belt!

Bikes on the Bricks Motorcycle Rally, Downtown Flint Michigan –Sunday, September 10th

Reasons To Ride is proud to join this unique rally that draws riders from across the Midwest and Canada to the brick streets of downtown Flint. While well known for the Police Motorcycle Skills Challenge – that draws riders internationally, the rally also features a diverse bike show on Sunday. Follow our event online or here for updates.

13th ANNUAL GENEVA THUNDER ZONE

Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio – Saturday, September 9th

Our LONGEST RUNNING show, produced by the Iron Cowboy Crew – is this annual celebration of Iron and Creativity overlooking Lake Erie. Each year we add something new and each year the show GROWS! Last year we awarded the THUNDER ZONE CHAMPIONSHIP BELT – and it returns again this year! But who will take it home? The competition is ALWAYS steep as well over 100 vintage and custom show bikes on display at one of the largest ride-in bike shows anywhere.

These are just a few that we’ve already locked down, but we have A LOT more in the works! Make sure that you’re following us on Facebook ( www.Facebook.com/ReasonsToRide) for updates as they are announced.

*Tentative dates. Date and details to be finalized and will be announced in future editions of RTR, on our Facebook pages, or at ReasonsToRide.com

Register ONLINE at ReasonToRide.com for these Bike SHOWS and more! For more information, email us at BikeShowInfo@gmail.com and follow us online at www.Facebook.com/ReasonsToRide www.Facebook.com/RTRMichigan, or www.Facebook.com/RTROhio

INTERESTED IN HOSTING A TRO BIKE SHOW AT YOUR LOCATION IN 2023?

We are currently reviewing locations and locking down dates for our 2023 Bike Show Series. We have a LIMITED NUMBER of dates available still. Email us TODAY for more information at BikeShowInfo@gmail.com

Bike show photos by Dave Kimery, Brendan Farren, Dan Hare, and Tyler Roberts – RTR Team Members and Contributors

When folks approach us for help with their Poker Runs or motorcycle events, the number one area of concern is almost always “Sponsorships”. Easily 7 out of 10 requests center around folks needing help with arranging sponsors and raising funds for their ride. And 90% of the time, folks are always making the same mistake.

And that is understanding the simple fact –

For a simply raffle donation or smaller donation, sure – the cause alone may justify some contributions, especially if it’s a well-known charity or cause. Veterans causes, children’s charities, cancer –anything that impacts a lot of people – will prompt some support. In many cases, they may donate simply because they like you and appreciate anyone making an effort to help others. But if you are looking for significant sponsorships, you need to come in the door with supporting arguments as to why they should invest in your ride.

Legitimate reasons include –

Traffic – How many people can the business expect to come through their door as either a sponsor or Ride Stop. Will this traffic generate off-setting income?

Branding / Positive Exposure – Does your Ride / Event offer the business a chance to positively showcase themselves within the community or cause folks to associate them with a strong brand or identifiable cause. How is this conveyed to the public or even ride participants?

Direct Return – Offer an immediate return on their investment in the form of tickets / passes for the ride and after event for them to distribute to customers.

This doesn’t imply that 90% of business owners and operators are cold hearted, insensitive folks. It’s simply the reality of doing business – and staying in business.

Especially these days, most business owners can’t simply fund every worthwhile cause that comes through their door. Business operators have an obligation to look out for their own interests – and remain in business. Many local businesses, especially these days, are facing a myriad of challenges and in many cases – increased costs. In most cases, they need to consider what business benefits your sponsorship offers them REGARDLESS of the cause.

“Stop into ABC Harley-Davidson™ and PRE-REGISTER for the ride, and ABC will cover the cost of the ride!”

How do you MONETIZE the value of your Sponsorships?

Make them a Stop. The easiest and most prominent means of offering value to a sponsor is by making them a RIDE STOP, and for your strongest sponsors – making them a starting or ending point. If possible, ALL of your Ride Stops should be sponsors.

Allow them to market directly to your participants / supporters. Allow your sponsors the chance to deliver their message / invitation directly to your participants and supporters. This might include:

• Setting up a booth at the event.

• Delivering a presentation to your organizations at a meeting before or after the event.

• Insert a flyer or coupon into a “swag” bag or distributing them to participants directly at check-in.

• Create a Program or Ride Card that features the sponsors and their message.

• Collect lead / contact information through registration or door raffles (w/ email addresses). Make sure you let participants know that you will be sharing their information with sponsors.

• Put them on ride t-shirts or banners at the event.

What to ask for / How to present?

Prepare a simply one sheet that outlines what it is you’re proposing. Keep it simple. It should cover the basics –

When / Where / Why? – When and where is the Ride and what’s it supporting.

Who? – Who are you? Is there an organization behind the event, is it a certified 501c3 charity?

How? – How are you getting the message out. What’s your plan?

“We will be promoting the ride through Reasons To Ride Magazine, a regional motorcycle magazine reaching over 300,000 riders across the Midwest. They offer both a print magazine and online promotion through digital editions and social media. In addition, we will be distributing over 500 handbills and posting flyers at over 50 locations throughout the area.”

What? – What is it that you’re asking for? In most cases, we recommend a basic three tier structure for Sponsorships. Make it simple and easy to convey so that anyone in your group can easily present.

Presenting Sponsorship – should include them on everything, maybe even the “name” of the ride. For example, “The Michigan Biker Law Ride for Veterans”. Don’t be afraid to make this worth a lot and possibly even include multi-year options. A commitment to a long term relationship and recognizing the value of it – will be appealing to most sponsors, especially if you’re asking for a significant investment. Always, though, allow them the option of excusing themselves (well in advance of next year’s event) if they are not happy or don’t see the value in the event. Essentially you are giving them the FIRST OPTION for the next year, however they must exercise it right away. This is a great excuse for getting them to commit early. These should ALWAYS be exclusive in terms of their market and direct competitors, not only in terms of the Presenting Sponsorships – but ALL sponsorships and on-site at the event. The value of the Presenting Sponsorship depends entirely on the size of the Ride / Event and the amount of advance promotion / exposure you have. If you’re running ads in magazines (such as Reason to Ride!) and circulating flyers / posters throughout the area – it’s reasonable to ask for at least $1,000 - $5,000 for established rides. If you’re doing more expensive promotions – such as full page ads or ads for months in advance, maybe radio or billboards – you must justify $5-10,000 for bigger rides and events.

The key here is to remember – you’ll RARELY (if ever) get it if you don’t ASK.

Supporting Sponsors – Allow for multiple Supporting Sponsorships and maybe include them on on-site and online materials, but not to the extent or scale as the Presenting Sponsorships. These could be half as much or maybe even less than the Presenting Sponsorships. In most cases, these might be $500 - $1,000 in cost.

Community Supporters – This is the basic level of sponsorship and should allow any business that wants to support the “cause” to donate and get recognized without a huge investment. Maybe recognize them as part of a list on a banner, program, and online. NOT on ride posters, flyers, or prominent signage. In most cases, these sponsorships are $100 or so.

ReasonsToRide can help promote your event for as little as $100 and has basic Ride Promotional Packages starting at $500 that can include online pre-registration, digital + print advertising, and even assistance with sponsors and on-site coordination. For more information, email Info@ReasonsToRide.com

EDITOR’S NOTE: A few years back we ran a series of articles focusing on how to effectively plan, organize, promote, and execute various motorcycle events – starting with the Poker Run. After countless requests for reprints and updates we decided to revisit the topic this spring and update the series. For immediate assistance with your next event, please send an inquiry to Info@ ReasonsToRide.com

The First Steps.

First off, identify potential sponsors within the community. Working with your board and volunteers, create a spreadsheet of prospects. Make it the theme of a meeting and brainstorm as a group. Take note of known contacts and relationships that your group may have with the prospective sponsors. Identify specific people to approach each sponsor. Assign a team, whenever possible.

Make sure you cover, the usuals and even a few reaches –Motorcycle Dealerships (Potential Starting / Ending Spots)

• Bars / Restaurants (Potential Ride Stops)

• VFW’s / Legion Halls (Potential Starting / Ending Spots)

• Tattoo Shops

• Retail Shops

• Car Dealerships

• Insurance Agencies

• Law Firms

• Banks

• Bail Bond Companies

• Smoke Shops

Make first, informal approach in late September / October - tail end of riding season while the value of the motorcycle community is still front and center in their mind. Some companies do their budgets in the Fall and that’s the time to get in your request. In some cases, it’s easier to get $5,000 in the Fall than $50 in the Spring. However, don’t be surprised or put-off when they ask you to come back in January or February. The process varies greatly with different companies and organizations.

Of course, those making the approach should be credible and effectively represent the ride, event, and the cause it supports. You are essentially asking these folks to invest in YOU and trusting that you will help others with their money. Don’t underestimate this. Along these lines, NEVER drink while making a presentation, even while at a bar. Nothing is gained by it – and you risk having them question your reliability and potential risk to investing in you and your ride.

Track the approaches and status of each of prospect on your spreadsheet.

During the Event.

Make sure that you make your sponsors part of the program on ride day.

• Invite them to set-up or participate in the Ride. Give them a number of “passes” or invites for them to use or hand-out to customers, friends, or family.

• Frequently announce / recognize sponsors throughout the entire event. It’s worth having a DJ / MC for this alone if necessary.

• Hang banner(s) recognizing sponsors prominently at both check-in and at any after-ride festivities.

• Take photos that include the sponsor (their business, their logo, their people..) whenever possible. Make it clear that they are part of the ride / event.

• Make sure that you save any programs (mentioning sponsors) or signage. You’ll want these for follow up with sponsors and your lead-up for next year’s ride / event.

After the Ride.

When it comes to your sponsors – it’s ESSENTIAL that you follow up with them after the event unless you’re not planning on hosting the ride / event or seeing them ever again.

• Drop-off or send them a copy of any programs / signage from the ride that includes them.

• Drop-off or send them a personalized letter or plaque that recognizes them for their support. Wall plaques are GREAT – because it not only gives them something to mount on the wall and show off (giving them additional exposure) but it also promotes your event to potential riders and sponsors. “Hey, I’d like one of those on my wall!”

• Recognize them with a post on social media, tagging them if possible. Include photos of the event that include their business, their logo, or their people. Whenever possible, include a photo of the principles with you or at the event. That’s a brief summary of some recommendations and ideas that you might consider. Of course, things vary widely based upon the specific ride / event and your cause. First year events should take a very different approach - seeking high visibility sponsors more as partners to give credibility and exposure to your ride. Well established, larger rides can certainly kick things up a lot.

The key points remain the same, though, for all rides.

For more information and assistance with promoting your ride or upcoming event, you can of course contact us directly. That’s pretty much what we do. We also have bundled packages that include everything – print and digital ads, flyers, banners, and even help distributing it all – at amazingly reasonable rates. We can also discount things and offer additional services such as designing flyers in exchange for sponsorship recognition. We can help each other – as promotional partners.

That’s pretty much our business. For more information, email us at Info@ReasonsToRide.com