Discover the best motorcycle stunt show Midwest routes for beginners with this essential guide. Plan your adventure, find top shows, and prepare for an exciting riding experience. This guide simplifies everything you need to know to hit the road safely and confidently for a thrilling stunt show tour.
Hey there, fellow riders! Ever dreamed of hitting the open road and catching some awesome motorcycle stunt shows? The Midwest has some incredible events, and planning a route can feel a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re new to it. Don’t you worry! I’m Barry K. Richmond, and I’m here to help you map out a fantastic journey that’s easy to follow and packed with excitement. We’ll break down how to find the best shows, figure out your riding route, and make sure you’re prepped for a smooth, safe, and unforgettable adventure.
Getting your motorcycle ready and planning a trip can seem like a big job, but it’s all about taking it one step at a time. Think of this as planning any other fun road trip, just with a bit more roar from your engine! We’ll cover everything from choosing your stops to packing smart. Get ready to experience some amazing stunts and enjoy some great riding. Let’s get your Midwest stunt show adventure rolling!
Finding Your Midwest Stunt Show Route for Beginners
Planning a road trip to see motorcycle stunt shows might sound like a huge undertaking, but it’s actually quite manageable, especially if you break it down. The Midwest is a treasure trove of talent and exciting events. We’ll focus on making this as straightforward as possible, so you can focus on enjoying the ride and the spectacle.
What Exactly Are Motorcycle Stunt Shows?
Motorcycle stunt shows are live performances where skilled riders execute incredible maneuvers on their bikes. We’re talking about daring jumps, precise flips, wheelies, burnouts, and often intricate synchronized riding. These events are a fantastic way to witness the skill and bravery of professional motorcyclists, and they’re a blast for spectators of all ages. They showcase the incredible capabilities of both the riders and their machines.
Why Choose a Midwest Route?
The Midwest offers a unique blend of accessible routes, varied landscapes, and a strong motorcycle culture. You’ll find a good mix of large-scale professional events and smaller, community-focused gatherings. The roads are generally well-maintained, and the distances between major cities and potential venues can make for a comfortable riding experience for beginners. Plus, the friendly atmosphere in many Midwest towns means you’ll often feel welcomed wherever you go.
Key Considerations for Beginners
As a beginner rider planning a stunt show tour, safety and comfort are your top priorities.
Riding Experience: Are you comfortable with longer rides? Consider shorter daily distances and plenty of breaks.
Bike Condition: Ensure your motorcycle is in top shape. Regular maintenance is key for reliability and safety.
Route Planning: Don’t overschedule. Allow ample time for travel, rest, and unexpected stops.
Weather: Midwest weather can be unpredictable. Always check the forecast and pack accordingly.
Support: Consider riding with a buddy or group for added safety and companionship.
Researching and Selecting Stunt Shows
The first exciting step is figuring out which shows to see! There are many ways to discover these events.
Where to Find Show Information
Online Event Calendars: Websites like Eventbrite, city tourism sites, and motorcycle community forums often list upcoming shows.
Motorcycle Magazine Websites: Many publications have event listings or news sections dedicated to stunt riding.
Social Media: Follow stunt riders, stunt teams, and motorcycle event organizers on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. They often announce new dates and locations there.
Local Motorcycle Dealerships: Dealerships are often hubs for local riding communities and might have posters or flyers for upcoming events.
Stunt Riding Organizations: Groups such as the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame (while not solely stunt-focused, they are a great resource for motorcycle heritage and events) or specific stunt riding associations can be valuable resources.
Types of Stunt Shows to Consider
Professional Competition Events: These are often large-scale events with top-tier riders vying for titles. They can be very exciting but might also be more expensive and crowded.
Demolition Derby / Thrill Shows: Many county fairs and local festivals include motorcycle stunt performances as part of a larger entertainment offering. These are usually more laid-back and family-friendly.
Freestyle Motocross (FMX) Shows: While FMX is a specific discipline, many FMX athletes also perform at general stunt shows.
Local Rider Demonstrations: Sometimes, local riding clubs or groups organize informal demonstrations. These are great for discovering up-and-coming talent.
Evaluating Show Suitability for Beginners
When looking at potential shows, consider these points:
Location Accessibility: Is it easy to get to? Are there good roads leading to the venue?
Show Format: Is it a single-day event or spread over a weekend? This impacts your travel plans.
Audience Experience: Is it family-friendly? Are there amenities like food and restrooms?
Ticket Pricing: Does it fit your budget?
Reputation: Check reviews or ask other riders about their experiences at past events.
Mapping Your Midwest Stunt Show Route
Once you have a few shows in mind, it’s time to build your route. This is where the real adventure begins!
Using Digital Mapping Tools
Tools like Google Maps, Garmin, or dedicated motorcycle GPS apps are your best friends.
Google Maps: Excellent for general route planning, estimating travel times, and finding points of interest along the way. You can add multiple stops easily.
Dedicated Motorcycle GPS Apps: Apps like Calimoto or Rever are designed specifically for riders. They often allow you to plot twisty routes, avoid highways, or find scenic roads. Many also offer features for tracking your rides and finding points of interest popular with motorcyclists.
Motorcycle-Specific Route Planners: Some websites and apps allow you to plan routes for motorcycles, sometimes even differentiating between highway and backroad preferences.
How to Add Stops and Optimize Your Route
1. Input Your Starting Point: Enter your home address.
2. Add Your Target Stunt Shows: Input the addresses of the shows you want to attend as destinations.
3. Consider Layover Points: If your route involves long riding days, add overnight stops in towns with good accommodations.
4. Look for Scenic Byways: Use your mapping tool’s features to identify national or state scenic trails. For example, the Great River Road runs along the Mississippi River through several Midwest states and offers fantastic riding.
5. Check for Construction or Detours: Before you leave and periodically during your trip, check for any road closures or detours that might affect your route.
Optimizing for Beginner Riders
Keep Daily Mileage Reasonable: Aim for no more than 300-400 miles per day, depending on your comfort level and the type of roads.
Prioritize Comfort: Choose routes that avoid excessive, high-speed highways if possible. Scenic backroads can be more enjoyable and less intimidating.
Build in Buffer Time: Add extra time each day for gas stops, meal breaks, stretching, and unexpected delays.
Map Out Fuel Stops: Know where you can refuel, as some rural areas may have fewer gas stations.
Essential Prep for Your Stunt Show Journey
A well-prepared rider is a safe and happy rider. Let’s get your bike and gear ready.
Motorcycle Check and Maintenance
Before you embark on any long ride, a thorough check of your motorcycle is crucial. This is not just about performing well; it’s about your safety.
Tires: Check tread depth and tire pressure. Properly inflated tires are vital for handling and performance. Learn how to check your tire pressure regularly.
Brakes: Ensure your brake pads have enough life left and that your brake fluid is at the correct level. Test your brakes thoroughly.
Fluids: Check oil levels, coolant, and any other necessary fluids.
Lights: Verify that all lights (headlight, taillight, brake lights, turn signals) are working correctly.
Chain/Belt: If you have a chain, ensure it’s clean, lubricated, and properly tensioned. If you have a belt drive, check for wear.
Battery: Make sure your battery is holding a charge.
Cables: Inspect throttle, clutch, and brake cables for any signs of fraying or damage.
For a detailed guide on pre-ride checks, you can refer to resources like those provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which offers comprehensive motorcycle safety information.
What to Pack: Gear and Tools
Packing smart ensures you’re comfortable and prepared for various situations.
Riding Gear Essentials:
Helmet: DOT-approved helmet, properly fitted.
Eye Protection: Goggles or a helmet visor.
Jacket: Abrasion-resistant motorcycle jacket with armor.
Gloves: Full-fingered, abrasion-resistant motorcycle gloves.
Pants: Abrasion-resistant motorcycle pants with armor.
Footwear: Over-the-ankle sturdy boots.
Rain Gear: Waterproof jacket and pants.
Base Layers: For comfort in varying temperatures.
Tools and Spares:
Tire Repair Kit: Plugs and a pump or CO2 cartridges.
Basic Toolkit: Wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, Allen keys that fit your bike.
Owner’s Manual: For reference.
Zip Ties and Duct Tape: Surprisingly useful for temporary fixes.
Spare Fuses: For your bike’s electrical system.
Small First-Aid Kit: For minor injuries.
DIY Tire Repair Basics
Knowing how to handle a flat tire can save your trip. Most repair kits involve a reamer to clean out the puncture hole, an insertion tool to push the plug into the hole, and the plugs themselves.
1. Locate the Puncture: Find the source of the air leak.
2. Remove the Object: If a nail or screw is visible, pull it out with pliers.
3. Ream the Hole: Use the reamer tool to clean and enlarge the puncture slightly so the plug can be inserted.
4. Insert the Plug: Thread a plug into the insertion tool and push it firmly into the hole, leaving about half an inch sticking out.
5. Trim and Inflate: Cut off the excess plug material and inflate the tire to the recommended pressure.
Safety and Etiquette on the Road
Riding in Groups: If you’re riding with others, establish hand signals and riding formations.
Visibility: Wear bright gear and ensure your lights are on.
Awareness: Constantly scan your surroundings for hazards.
Respect Other Road Users: Be courteous and patient.
Obey Traffic Laws: Always adhere to speed limits and traffic signals.
Sample Midwest Stunt Show Routes for Beginners
To give you a starting point, here are a couple of sample routes. Remember, these are just ideas, and you can customize them based on the shows you find and your riding preferences.
Route Idea 1: “Great Lakes & Gears” Tour (Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan)
This route focuses on events around the Great Lakes region, offering a mix of city shows and fair attractions.
Start: Chicago, IL
Stop 1: Mid-Summer Rally (Wisconsin Dells, WI) – Often features bike shows and sometimes stunt demos. Check specific dates.
Stop 2: Local County Fair (e.g., Waukesha County Fair, WI) – Many fairs have motorcycle stunt shows as part of their entertainment.
Stop 3: Michigan Motorcycle and Powersports Expo (Grand Rapids, MI) – While an expo, it often has stunt rider appearances or demos.
Stop 4: Detroit Autorama (Detroit, MI) – Sometimes includes motorcycle stunt acts or custom bike displays with stunt riders.
End: Return to Chicago, IL
Estimated Riding Days: 4-6 days (depending on time spent at each stop and daily mileage).
Potential Shows/Events:
| Location | Event Type | Typical Time of Year | Notes |
| :——————- | :——————————————– | :——————- | :————————————————— |
| Wisconsin Dells, WI | Motorcycle Rally, Bike Show, Demos | Summer | Check rally schedules for stunt performances. |
| Waukesha County, WI | County Fair with Entertainment | Late July / Early Aug | Look for “Thrill Show” or “Motorcycle Stunts”. |
| Grand Rapids, MI | Motorcycle & Powersports Expo/Showcase | Jan/Feb | Focus on rider appearances and demo areas. |
| Detroit, MI | Custom Car & Motorcycle Show (Autorama) | March | Good chance to see stunt riders in custom bike areas. |
| Various (Midwest) | Local Motorcycle Stunt Competitions/Festivals | Spring-Summer-Fall | Requires ongoing research for specific dates. |
Route Idea 2: “Plains to Performance” Tour (Iowa, Missouri, Kansas)
This route explores central Midwest states, often featuring events connected to state fairs and agricultural shows.
Start: Des Moines, IA
Stop 1: National Tractor Pull Championships (Bowling Green, MO) – While focused on pulling, these events sometimes include motorcycle stunt entertainment.
Stop 2: Iowa State Fair (Des Moines, IA) – Always a hub for entertainment, including potential stunt shows.
Stop 3: Kansas City Ribfest / Blues Fest (Kansas City, MO/KS) – Many large festivals incorporate stunt riders.
Stop 4: Salina, KS – Known for some automotive and motorcycle events; research local happenings.
End: Return to Des Moines, IA
Estimated Riding Days: 4-7 days.
Potential Shows/Events:
| Location | Event Type | Typical Time of Year | Notes |
| :————— | :——————————————– | :——————- | :—————————————————————– |
| Bowling Green, MO | Tractor Pull / Fair Grounds Entertainment | Early August | Often features diverse thrill acts. |
| Des Moines, IA | State Fair (Grandstand Acts, Midway Acts) | Mid-August | Huge entertainment variety; check schedule for motorcycle stunts. |
| Kansas City, MO/KS | Major Festivals (Ribfest, Bluesfest, etc.) | Summer | These large events are excellent venues for stunt rider bookings. |
| Salina, KS | Local Car & Bike Shows, Festivals | Spring-Fall | Requires timely local event research. |
| Topeka, KS | Kansas Expofest / Car Shows | Varies | Check specific dates for motorcycle-related stunt performances. |
Important Note for Routes: Event schedules and locations can change annually. Always verify dates, times, and specific performers well in advance. Consider the timing of your trip with typical fair and rally seasons, which are usually from late spring through early fall.
Maximizing Your Stunt Show Experience
You’ve picked your route, prepped your bike, and packed your gear. Now, let’s make sure you get the most out of the shows themselves.
Understanding Show Schedules
Performance Times: Stunt shows often have multiple performances throughout a day or weekend. Check the specific times to fit them into your travel plans.
Opening Acts/Fan Zone: Some larger events have pre-show activities, like fan zones where you might meet riders or see bikes up close.
Weather Delays: Be prepared for potential delays or cancellations due to rain or severe weather. Have a backup plan or be ready to wait it out.