Myrtle Beach hopes to draw a diverse group of riders for its annual Bike Week in May. Attendance at the event fell in recent years after council members passed an ordinance in 2008 requiring bikers to wear helmets within city limits.
The regulation was overturned by the state Supreme Court in 2010 because it conflicted with South Carolina’s helmet law, which compelled only riders under 21 to wear protective headgear. Critics said the law was designed to discourage the bike rally, forcing it to take place beyond the city due to complaints about noise, bad behavior and trash.
According to the organization Myrtle Beach Bike Week, LLC, the number of Bike Week participants rose in 2012 but did not reach the record numbers of 2004 and 2005.
Rebuilding Bike Week
Although there has been a lot of controversy over this yearly occasion, a new marketing plan could help bring back the crowds. Organizers are collecting new ideas to increase the number of people who participate throughout the week.
While the typical profile of a biker is that of an older white male, it does not reflect today’s assortment of riders. Motorcycle enthusiasts are actually a much broader demographic. So rally coordinators want to focus more effort on reaching women, African Americans, Hispanics and younger riders this year.
By appealing to a wider population of motorcyclists, organizers hope to draw larger gatherings to its various events.
Need Legal Help?
Motorcycle riders are able to enjoy the freedom of the open road. But because these vehicles have very little protection, an accident can cause devastating injuries. Our South Carolina motorcycle accident attorneys at Joye Law Firm understand that a motorcycle collision may have physical, emotional and financial consequences for all involved. If you or someone you love is the victim of a South Carolina motorcycle crash, please contact us for a free consultation at (888) 324-3100 or fill out our convenient online form today.
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