CABO SAN LUCAS — The thunder of Harley-Davidsons and the scent of salt air mixed Friday night as hundreds of leather-clad riders converged for the opening of the 18th Annual International Motorcycle Rally, a signature event that's become a cornerstone of Baja California Sur's summer calendar.
Los Cabos Mayor Christian Agúndez Gómez personally welcomed the international contingent at the kickoff ceremony held at the coastal "Nabor García Aguirre" Cultural Center, where bikes will remain on display through Saturday's finale. The event, organized by local riding club Baja Bikers, has grown from a regional meetup to a global draw since its 2007 inception.
"This isn't just about motorcycles—it's about the soul of Baja," Mayor Agúndez told the crowd, his voice competing with rumbling engines. "Every year, riders from Texas to Toronto discover why we call this 'where the desert meets the sea.'"
Key Details:
• Economic Impact: The rally brings an estimated $2M in tourism revenue
• Demographics: 60% U.S. participants (primarily California, Arizona, Texas)
• Signature Ride: Saturday's 85-mile coastal run to Todos Santos
Event founder Álvaro Ramírez of Baja Bikers noted this year's record registration: "We've got riders from 12 countries—even a group that shipped their bikes from Germany. The secret's out: Baja has the best riding roads in North America."
The rally's growth mirrors Los Cabos' transformation into a year-round destination. While winter brings luxury travelers, summer now attracts adventure tourism, with the motorcycle rally joining the Baja 1000 off-road race
as must-do events for motorsports enthusiasts.
Safety remains a priority, with local police providing escort vehicles for group rides along the winding Transpeninsular Highway. "We want everyone to experience our famous Cabo curves—safely," emphasized Tourism Director Maribel Collins.
As the Friday night festivities unfolded with live norteño bands and custom bike showcases, Ohio rider Mike Dawson summed up the appeal: "Where else can you ride cactus-lined highways by day and sip margaritas on Medano Beach by sunset? This is rider's paradise."
No comments:
Post a Comment