According to Siri, the most read page on the internet regarding Ontario motorcycling is the Complete list of motorcycle events page. Not a surprise, as we can’t see a better way to combine our passion for the ride with like-minded people, often for a good cause. So while any event on the list is a worthy choice, the below-listed offer a bit extra for your time by making getting there and back among some of Ontario’s finest moto roads half the fun. Time waits for no one; by the time you read this, some of these might have already come and gone. Luckily they are annual happenings; no need to fret; miss it this season, start planning for next year,
NorthStar Guardians Group 1st Annual Triathlon
North Bay, ON
With the NorthStar Guardians Group 1st Annual Triathlon in North Bay, Ontario, poker run, darts and a game of giant beer pong, dinner and entertainment included. Teams of four will compete in all three events for awards; it sounds like fun. This event is even more ride worthy because North Bay is smack dab in the center of some of the best motorcycling in the province. Coming from the south, tick off a few of the best moto roads in Muskoka or hop on the Big Loop, which passes just a few kilometres south of North Bay. For more saddle time, head out on the Lake Nipissing Circle Tour or loop north along the Lake Temiskaming Tour.
The Best Western Hotel offers a discount for riders spending the night; grab a bite to eat and take in lake views aboard the The Boat Restaurant and Bar and for post-ride refreshments, New Ontario Brewing will be happy to supply.
Big Bash Show & Shine at the Iron Rooster
Marmora, ON
The Big Bash Show & Shine at the Iron Rooster in Marmora, Ontario is presented by Harley Davidson Riders of Canada (HD-ROC) & Timeless Bikes of Harley, with proceeds going to The Hospital for Sick Children. Plus, door prizes, 50/50 raffle, silent auction, charity BBQ, beer tent, vendors, great music and of course, the show & shine. Do you need more reasons to head out for a ride? There is the chance to browse the motorcycle museum at Iron Rooster or continue the ride along the 1000 km Highlands Loop. If that’s a bit much, choose one of the area’s many Ride The Highlands route options.
Ride for Sight Central Ontario
Fenelon Falls, ON
Maybe the longest-running motorcycle charity event in Canada, Ride for Sight has raised over $26 million for Fighting Blindness Canada. The event is back at the Fairgrounds in Fenelon Falls. Live entertainment, a new Poker Run route, vendors to browse and camping on-site, sound like a good time. Looking for more? There is the newly developed The Lion’s Tail route that will show you the best roads around the Bruce Peninsula or, after the event, venture around the Georgian Bay along the Georgian Bay Coastal Route.
The Integrity Tour
Thunder Bay, ON
If you take part in the Integrity Tour, park and party at Mount Baldy; the main event will be held at Thunder Bay Harley Davidson. There will be live bands, beer gardens, a bike raffle, bike games, a burnout pit, and more. Camping will be available Friday and Saturday.
Unless you are a local, Thunder Bay is a way out there for us to the south, but that’s not a bad thing. More like a perfect reason for a road trip. Whether you are riding from southern Ontario or the USA, it’s all about Lake Superior. Wilderness, the open road and spectacular lake coast vistas; you are in for a treat. Along the way in Algoma, be sure to include the Grand Algoma tour, which will take you along the twists and turns of Highway 129 and some of the best stretches of the Lake Superior coast. The Nor’Wester loop is an excellent way to get you to the event if you are riding in from the west or want more time in the saddle. For accommodations, there seem to always be a few bikes in the parking lot at Delta by Marriott on the waterfront or the more budget-friendly Haven Hostel. Both are within walking distance to the favourite post-ride hangout, Tomlin Subdivision pizza joint, and Lakehead Brewing, located under the same roof.
Leave No One Behind Ride for Veterans Poker Run
Kirkland Lake, ON
The 4th annual Leave No One Behind Ride for Veterans Poker Run will be in memory of Stephane Leveille. There will be a Harley-Davidson draw a poker run, plus dinner and bands. It all takes place at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 87. A good cause and a good time in a northern Ontario destination worthy of a road trip any time. The Lake Temiskaming Tour should be on the agenda if travelling from southern Ontario. For an even more epic road trip experience, The Great Legends Tour might be the ticket.
In the area, get your cheese fix at Thornloe Cheese ( they sell ice cream also) and discover local history at the Museum of Northern History. Accommodations in Kirkland Lake include the conveniently located Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kirkland Lake with an indoor pool and hot tub or the Prospector’s Inn for friendly service and suites with full kitchens. For a bite to eat, try Plum Blossom Bakery Café, which has sold an incredible 50,000 cupcakes to date or Gimme-Wun, where you will find a menu that includes wraps, fish and chips, burgers, salads and more.
While any event on Ontario’s complete list of motorcycle events page is a good reason to get out and ride, some might offer more of the ride part than others. The above list shows that while the event is the destination, combined with Ontario’s pre-planned tours and incredible roads, the experience can be a road trip adventure.
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