Best Rides to Check Out at Sturgis 2025

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally isn’t just the biggest bike rally in the world — it’s also your gateway to some of the most unforgettable roads in America. Whether you’re a first-timer or a veteran of the Black Hills, 2025 is the year to ride right.

From winding mountain curves to celeb-packed charity routes, here are some of the best motorcycle rides to check out during Sturgis 2025.

🌄 Sturgis Mayor’s Sturgis Ride – The Official Rally Kickoff

Date: Saturday, August 2, 2025
Start Location: 1401 Lazelle Street, Sturgis
Kickstands Up: 9:00 AM
Riders Limit: 150 spots only

The 23rd Annual Mayor’s Ride is one of the most intimate and scenic rides of the rally. Led by Sturgis Mayor Kevin Forrester and the 2025 Grand Marshal, this charity ride winds through the Black Hills, includes a rider breakfast, group photo, and lunch — all while raising funds for local causes.

Why It’s a Must-Ride:

• Official kickoff to Rally Week

• Small group vibe with big rally energy

• T-shirt, downloadable group photo, and rider perks

Register early — this one caps at just 150 riders.

Iron Mountain Road - Mt. Rushmore & Crazy Horse Monument

Distance: 17 miles
Curves: 314
Switchbacks: 14
Pigtails: 3
Tunnels: 3
Presidents: 4
Stops: Mt. Rushmore & Crazy Horse

This ride is a Black Hills legend. Start from Keystone and make your way through Iron Mountain Road, where every curve delivers a thrill and every tunnel frames Mt. Rushmore like a postcard.

The combo of tight turns, dramatic elevation changes, and epic viewpoints makes this one of the most rewarding and technical rides during the rally.

Pro Tip: Bring a camera. The views of Mt. Rushmore from inside the tunnels are iconic.

Follow this custom route on Google Maps

Ride Ready Tip: Check your tires and tech before hitting this one — it’s tight and twisty. 

🤘 Buffalo Chip's Legends Ride – Ride with Icons for a Cause

Date: Monday, August 4, 2025
Kickstands Up: 3:00 PM
Start: Deadwood Outlaw Square
Finish: The Legendary Buffalo Chip

One of the most high-profile rides of the rally, the Buffalo Chip's Legends Ride is where riding meets celebrity. From movie stars to moto royalty, this ride has hosted names like Steven Tyler, Paul Teutul Sr., and South Dakota’s own Kristi Noem.

It’s more than a cool photo op — it’s raised over $2.8 million for local charities.

The Experience:

• Custom motorcycle and art auction

• Scenic group ride led by celebrities

• Riders-only reception with food, drinks, and live music

Reserve your spot early — this one fills up fast.