85th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Hosts Global Fans Amid Crashes, Concerts

The 85th annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota featured a mix of high-energy events and safety concerns, with 16 crashes reported on a single Monday, including a fatality and a life-flight case. Medical facilities like Monument Health prepared for the influx of injuries typical of the rally period. Despite daily statistics released by the South Dakota Department of Public Safety during the rally, these numbers do not fully reflect all motorcycle fatalities linked to the event, as crashes outside western South Dakota and in other states are excluded. Entertainment highlights included a performance by Gene Simmons and his band at the Buffalo Chip, where he engaged warmly with fans in a more intimate, less theatrical show. The Sturgis Buffalo Chip campground remains a central hub, offering concerts, motorcycle shows, and contests, described by its founder as the best party for the friendliest crowd. Additionally, the Buffalo Chip hosted the Bare Knuckles Championship, drawing spectators to this unique fight event during the rally.