Mardi Gras is here and that means Spring has done sprung, and another Daytona bike week is right around the corner. The 76th Annual event runs from March 10th through the 19th this year, and it looks to live up to its reputation for ample entertainment once again. As always, Harley-Davidson->ke300 will act as the official brand for the event -- fitting since the Daytona event has long been used by the factory as a venue to stage a next-year preview for its licensed dealers. H-D will have models on hand for test rides, and will contribute with a kick-off party complete with musical entertainment courtesy of “Hairball,” as well as a women's ride and other HOG-based events. Race fans will have plenty on their plates with the American Flat Track Daytona TT at the Daytona International Speedway on March 16th, plus the opening event of the NHRA Mello Yellow Drag Racing Series from the 16th through the 19th in nearby Gainsville, Florida. As you might imagine, the full schedule of events is exhaustive and can be referenced in detail in multiple locations. Check the Daytona Beach Regional Chamber of Commerce webpage or the Official Bike Week website.

Continue reading for more on the Daytona Beach Bike Week 2017.

Words of Advice

If you've never been to bike week in Daytona, I leave you with two pieces of advise. First, carry plenty of change and small bills if you decide to explore the Florida countryside, 'cause there's toll booths all around, and they have a ravenous appetite. When I am in Florida, I am in the practice of holding at least $7 in reserve to feed the tolls just in case my adventures take me through their territory. Second, no matter how warm it seems while the sun is up, it's going to cool off rapidly when the shadows start to get long, so dress for it with layering so you can adjust for the rapid temperature changes during the day. That's all I got for now. Keep it between the lines and dirty-side down.