First Timer / First Rally

[deebeetn]

I'm heading over to the rally from East TN and plan on camping. From what I've gathered from past information, camping is a bit of a free for all in designated locations and it looks like we can have.our bike and gear right at our tent. Can anyone confirm that's accurate? What the bath house/shower house situation going to be like?

I'm also keeping an eye on the vendor list and hope certain vendors attend. Do some allow test fitting of parts for comfort check such as bar risers and seats?

Last question; when will the rally app on the mobile devices start getting populated with content?

 

[voni]

I'm heading over to the rally from East TN and plan on camping. From what I've gathered from past information, camping is a bit of a free for all in designated locations and it looks like we can have.our bike and gear right at our tent. Can anyone confirm that's accurate? What the bath house/shower house situation going to be like?

I'm also keeping an eye on the vendor list and hope certain vendors attend. Do some allow test fitting of parts for comfort check such as bar risers and seats?

Last question; when will the rally app on the mobile devices start getting populated with content?

You remind me of me and our first rally. Eager anticipation but lots of questions.

I'm glad you plan to camp. It's the best way to really enjoy all of the rally and to meet people. People who are as enthusiastic as you are about riding and the adventure it brings. Ask lots of questions!

Yes, the tent camping is a bit wild but I know I prefer that to too much regulation. Showers are usually decent but if you don't like lines, go at off peak times.

Some vendors do allow you to try before you buy. Just ask.

I don't know about timing for the app but keep watching. It adds lots to your rally experience!

Voni
sMiling

 

[deebeetn]

I appreciate the info!

 

[dougbakke]

As Voni mentions, plan for early early morning, late evening or mid-day for showers. Come to shower with bare essentials and get some cheap dollar store flip flops to wear, not much room to stage things. Redmond was fun because they didn't level shower trailer very well and one end turned into a swimming pool. Richmond was trouble free. Sign up to volunteer and you'll thank yourself - great way to meet some awesome folks.

 

[deebeetn]

Good intel. Thanks!

 

[r0ckrat]

I camped at my first rally in 2022 and had a great time chatting with neighbors. What I would suggest, is that choice of tent location kind of revolves around:
1) Availability - if you are there early, choices are pretty easy. Later arrivals have fewer choices.
2) Shade - best bet is to pick a spot that will be in shade (and level) in the afternoon if not all day. Sometimes some of the barns and other covered areas may be available, and many people pick those locations. In Springfield, MO, I found those to smell too much like a barn for my taste, and I'm not sure how the air flow was during the heat of the day. This also depends on the weather forcast.
3) Distance to events - the closer you are to the "stuff" that happens, the shorter the walk, but also if you are close to the stage(s) where music is, the louder it will be if you want to turn in early.

Note also that you can rent a tent at the rally, where the tent is pre-set with a cot or other bedding arrangement. Depending on your travel plans to and from the rally, that might be an option to explore as well.

 

[lee]

Note also that you can rent a tent at the rally, where the tent is pre-set with a cot or other bedding arrangement. Depending on your travel plans to and from the rally, that might be an option to explore as well.

Here's a example of the rental option at the Springfield rally.

 

[motorhead1977]

Sounds like pretty good plan if you're riding in even though my idea of camping is a Motel 6

 

[scout6]

Having a mesh bag to carry to the showers is a good idea. Since there are limited hooks, this keeps your stuff off the wet. Most of the camping allows for parking your bike close to your tent.

 

[zer0netgain]

Sounds like pretty good plan if you're riding in even though my idea of camping is a Motel 6

Ditto. I tried camping for a few trips. Found it wasn’t for me…and I’ve slept in parking lots and picnic shelters. Between being a side sleeper and allergy/sinus issues, I prefer a nice bed and AC.

 

[lee]

Here's a example of the rental option at the Springfield rally.
View attachment 100064
View attachment 100065

Here's the information for the Sherpa vendor.

BMW MOA

Imagine a better way to enjoy your rally experience Experience the comfort of camping life with roomy tents, a sleeping bag with a bag liner and pillow, an air mattresses or cot, and comfy camp...

www.sherpapackers.com