What are some of the first things that come to mind when you think about Sturgis Bike Week? My thoughts were caught between weekend warriors on baggers, after market boobs, Trump flags and maybe some beautiful riding. Although all of those predisposed judgements are true i had never been. So when Michael Lichter approached me about showing my photographs in his 22nd annual Motorcycles As Art exhibit i decided it was time for me to really find out what this rally is all about. Besides, it’s not where you are it’s who you are with! The caliber of Michael’s show is incredible, and i am truly honored to be invited to such a beautiful display of art and motorcycles under one roof. Bill and i packed up my photos in the trailer, along with some bikes and every camping item you could have imagined and headed north. We had a quick stop in Nashville for the Paradise Roadshow, picked up a days labor from Bobby The Leg and hauled ass towards the legendary Buffalo Chip. Bill and i arrived the week before the rally started, i had a lot of work to do to set up my photos for the show and we also got to take in Sturgis before all the zombies got there. With the help of the fine folks from the Buffalo Chip i was able to get all 32 of my images up on the wall in a days time. I had about 4 days until the opening reception so we decided to take in some of the amazing riding and see old friends from across the country. My years of judgement of the rally slowly faded away around each turn from Sturgis to Nemo. Meeting up with Moondog, Jeff & Bob from Speed Standard & riding out to the amazing Buckhorn Wyoming bar was probably one of the best days I’ve ever had on my motorcycle. It helped that our chopper crowd had a steady hold on Bike Week this year also. Prism Supply, Choppers Magazine and Mamma Tried through some amazing parties, bike shows and races. Everyone’s favorite Roadside Marty was fully in his element and had a smile from ear to ear. Sasha’s & Lindsay of Sasha’s Cycles we’re kind enough to let us hang every single day at there shop because it truly felt like home. Danger Dan had our spirits up talking shit in Deadwood and Kurpius decided to show us the old stand on your seat backwards and take photos while riding down the road. Sam built one of the most beautiful choppers I’ve ever seen and let me take photos of it. He even showed up with the good vibes from KC Theirs a lot that went down, to much for these pages and some not appropriate for readers under 18. Sturgis was not a bust, it was one of the best times I’ve ever had and will most definitely try and make it every year. You should too.