American Motorcyclist December 2017

Experiencing America’s Best Road Rides

2017 Events Provided Fun, Friendship

Photo by Jen Muecke

The 2017 AMA National Gypsy Tour Series included 17 events across the country where recreational riders could count on finding fun and excitement among likeminded motorcyclists.

“We were extremely happy with the number of events this year,” said Heather Wilson, AMA recreational riding manager. “We are looking forward to another year of exciting events in 2018.”

Gypsy tours are gatherings of riders from all over the country, converging on a single destination. AMA National Gypsy Tours bring riders together to enjoy the camaraderie of motorcycling, often in a location of particular beauty, historic significance or importance to the sport.

The AMA has been sanctioning Gypsy Tours since the founding of the association in 1924.

“This was our first full national tour series in several years,” Wilson said. “We had an amazing lineup of quality events.”

The AMA National Gypsy Tour Series kicked off in 2017 with an AMA Gypsy Tour at Bike Week in Daytona Beach, Fla., before hitting such major events as the Americade Motorcycle Touring Rally, Laconia Motorcycle Week, AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, the National Bikers Roundup and Las Vegas BikeFest.

Dubbed as the “world’s oldest motorcycle rally,” Laconia Motorcycle Week began its Gypsy Tour in 1916. In 2017, Laconia was recognized as a 2017 AMA Gypsy Tour Heritage Event.

“All of these events had thousands of people in attendance, and more than 50 volunteers assisted the AMA staff members, as well,” Wilson said. “The AMA is focused on maintaining its connection to recreational riders and working hard to ensure that their lifestyle is protected and they enjoy their experience.”