This was the 13th year of the Dakota Thunder ride. This ride is in honor of our military, and is approximately 250 motorcycles that are escorted from Ellsworth AFB, through Rapid City and into the Black Hills, through the town of Nemo, through Vanoker Canyon and into Sturgis. The SD Highway Patrol shuts the exits and entrances to I-90, and the Rapid City PD stop all traffic as we ride through town. The Sturgis PD stop all traffic in Sturgis as we ride to our destination. We have reserved parking, and a refreshments tent. This year they honored a WWII Vet who is from Sturgis. It is a big thrill.
We met friends Sandy and Tom Butler at the Hart Mart and 7:00 am and rode out to Ellsworth. We got signed up, had our pancake breakfast, and then were able to take pictures under the static B1 in front of the Air Museum.
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| Parked under the B1 |
We had to be escorted out to the base, where we parked to wait for the ride to start.
Last year we started the ride by riding down the runway, but this year they were doing B1 training missions so we didn't get to do that. But we were treated to being up close for three B1 taxis and takeoffs. What a thrill!
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| Two B1s as they taxi down the runway |
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| A B1 taxiing for takeoff |
We had lunch at the Loud American Roadhouse (steak tips and fries), and then went to the Jack Daniels exhibit to get our bandanas (they sponsored the ride), and had an enjoyable ride home.
There are many more bikers here this year, and it's very exciting to hear the noise and see all of the beautiful bikes.
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| Main Street Sturgis |
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| Main Street Sturgis |
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