Race Day the Rippers Way: Your Guide to MotoAmerica Mayhem
If you’re a cruiser or bagger rider, odds are you haven’t spent much time at a motorcycle race. It’s not your world. Historically, racing has been dominated by sport bikes—bikes built for the track, not the long haul. And while they fly, they don’t speak our language. Their speed is our straight-line torque. Their GP fairings are our bagger bags.
But more recently the game changed.
MotoAmerica cracked open the gates and let the monsters in. Two new race classes now run wild on the asphalt:
Super Hooligan—where 750cc+ twins go full berserker mode—and
King of the Baggers—where 600+ lb. Harley and Indian baggers scrape pegs and chase sport bike times through apexes like they’ve got something to prove.
Spoiler: they do. And they’re proving it.
With these classes came a new breed of fans. Riders like us. Riders who rip. This guide is for you—the Steel Ripper who’s never been to a live race but wants in. Let’s get you to your first MotoAmerica weekend and make it worth every damn second.
Get the Right Ticket
Pretty simple, right? Not so fast. MotoAmerica offers different ticket levels—single-day, full weekend, VIP, and more. If you want the full-throttle experience, hunt down the Harley-Davidson Factory Race Fan Package. Even if you don’t ride a Harley, it’s still the move.
Here’s why:
1. Parade Lap Access
You’ll get to roll your own bike onto the actual racetrack and rip a few controlled laps. In your own gear. On your own machine. It’s a quick taste of race life, and it’s worth the ticket price alone.
2. VIP Viewing Area
Shaded seating, couches, and big-ass screens streaming the race. Sound lame? It’s not. Tracks are 2+ miles long—you’ll only see a slice of the action from a static spot. The screens show you everything: overtakes, crashes, the works.
Bonus tip:
Watch the final laps at the podium TVs, especially if one of your favorite riders might place. That way you’re already in position to catch the celebration—beer sprays, fist pumps, burnouts and all.
3. Designated Parking
It’s not glamorous—sometimes it’s a grassy hill—but it’s one less thing to think about. Signs point the way, and you’re parked with fellow rippers.
Merch & Food Tips
Don’t expect rally-level vendor chaos. Merch booths are more limited at race tracks. MotoAmerica gear, track gear, and maybe a few vendors will be there. If you want something specific—especially if it's MotoAmerica-branded—check the website in advance and order online.
Food-wise, it’s the usual suspects: brisket, burgers, fries. Don’t expect lobster bisque. Check the track’s website beforehand if you’re thinking about bringing your own cooler—they’ll list what’s allowed.
Bathrooms & “Backstage” Perks
Yes, it’s mostly porta-jons. Yes, they get gnarly. But if you’re around the paddock, you might stumble into a flush toilet oasis. Use it wisely.
Now, let’s talk about the paddock. Everyone gets in. This is the nerve center of the race world. Teams wrench on bikes. Racers catch their breath. Sponsors talk shop. You’ll see MotoAmerica stars ten feet away, chilling by their trailers. It’s as close to a backstage pass as you’ll ever get at a major motorsport event.
Autographs & Selfies? Hell Yes
Check the schedule—MotoAmerica holds autograph sessions in the pit area. Riders post up at their team tents with free posters and Sharpies. Ask nice, and they’ll snap a selfie with you too. Instant fan cred.
Final Thoughts
If you love ripping, you’ll love the vibe at the track. These aren’t just riders—they’re professionals who live wide open. The energy is raw, the speeds are savage, and the whole thing feels like a shot of adrenaline straight into your riding soul.
Your first race can feel like stepping into a high-octane maze—loud, chaotic, and spread out over miles of track. It’s easy to feel like you don’t know where to go or what to do first. But don’t sweat it. The fans don’t bite, the racers (usually) don’t either, and most of the time you’re free to roam.
So get out there. Explore every inch. Meet the riders. Watch the wrenching. Smell the tire smoke. This ain’t the kind of event you just sit and watch—you live it. Leave with dirt on your boots, a few new stories, and zero regrets.
See you where the throttle's pinned and the engines scream.
– Bagger Shawn
Founder, Steel Rippers
Fast as Hell. Hard to Kill.