Getting Ready for the Official 2014 National Bikers Roundup in Tulsa, Oklahoma
The 37th Annual National Bikers Roundup (Roundup) at Osage Casino Tulsa Raceway Park in Tulsa, Oklahoma, kicks off July 30th 2014. So to help get you ready we’re taking a look back at Roundups of past.
Before we jump into the flashback, for those unaware the Roundup is considered to be the largest camping motorcycle rally in the country. This family-friendly motorcycle rally was established in Kansas City, MO in 1977 by a group of African-American motorcycle clubs and changes locations yearly with returning to its founding city every 10th year, providing all the opportunity to enjoy the camaraderie and family reunion atmosphere the Roundup embodies nationwide.
The Roundup has a tremendous economic and social awareness component. It is estimated the Roundup generates more than $3M for the host city’s local economy and directly benefits local food banks as one its primary outreach goals in addition to its Sister to Sister seminars.
Past entertainment at the Roundup included Zapp, KeKe Wyatt, Kem, Bobby Rush, Avant, Omens MC’s own Big Mucci, even a surprise spirit-filled appearance by Gospel Artist and brother Rider Fred Hammond. Celebrities and personalities as Daryl “DMC” McDaniels, Tyson Beckford, the legendary Sugar Bear, and Rickey Gadson have also added the Roundup’s illustrious history.
Although the Roundup typically attracts the cruiser, touring and bagger populations, younger Riders and sportbike owners also frequent this annual event recognizing it provides a mature down-home vibe that differs from such events as the very popular Atlantic Beach Bike Fest.
For 2014, the Roundup brings back one of its most popular features, drag racing and the oh-so entertaining grudge races. That’s right; get your bikes ready because the lights of Tulsa Raceway along with an estimated annual attendance of 15k-30K will be on hand to enjoy the adrenaline-rush of drag racing action.
Long time corporate sponsor Harley-Davidson (H-D) will once again be on-site providing demo rides. Not only has H-D been a long-time Roundup supporter, it’s also a very strategic move. At a point in time, the orange and black H-D shield was synonymous with an “old-mans” bike. In 2006 during 26th Roundup in Atlanta, my wife and I demo’d a Harley to kill a little time. I’m proud to say I now own a Harley thanks in part to that seed being planted years ago in my early sportbike days.
The 2014 entertainment brings back the very electrifying talents of Zapp. Don’t think because a few years have passed since this award winning group first appeared on the music scene they’ve slowed down. Not hardly. Their performance is jam-packed with lights, wardrobe changes, and “More Bounce to the Ounce” energy than you could imagine. Also included in this year’s entertainment line-up is Mel Waiters, Chubby Carrier & the Bayou Swamp Band and many more.
And what’s a motorcycle event without the bikes. Some of the cleanest and meanest custom bikes in the nation make the pilgrimage to the Roundup for an opportunity to compete in the coveted Best of Show category. This year’s Custom Bike show is sponsored by Schmidt Milhern, LLC. and All Things Chrome, a company that knows a thing or two about custom bikes.
With such a rich history, entertainment, social and economic impact and most of all the down-home atmosphere, it’s now wonder why so many have made the Roundup a part of their yearly plans and lives.
So, are you ready for the Roundup? We are. Catch you in Tulsa!
For more on the National Bikers Roundup, visit nbrkcmo.com. For photos of our coverage visit us on our Facebook page, Throttle Life.