MUSKEGON, Mich. — Michigan's biggest motorcycle rallies are getting in gear this week. Nearing a decade old, the annual Rebel Road rally will kick off in Downtown Muskegon Wednesday, just a few blocks over from the annual bike time rally starting at 5pm.
"After last year, they estimated almost 70,000 people over the five days and with the weather forecast that we are expecting, I think we think we're probably going to surpass that number," said Kyleen Gee, the Executive Director of Child Abuse Council and Rebel Road.
Rebel Road is the biggest motorcycle event in Michigan. Organizers said Western Avenue will be closed as bikers and other visitors take over the city. As far as the festivities you can expect this year, Gee said the possibilities are limitless.
"Very family friendly. These motorcycles that you'll come down and see, people spend thousands upon thousands on these they're great to look at. We have stunt shows, we have professional wrestling happening. We have over 54 food and merchandise fenders. Lots of things to do for the whole family," said Gee.
One of the goals of Rebel Road is to boost the economy in Downtown Muskegon and raise money for the child abuse council.
"It all benefits the child abuse Council. Our agency serves over 21,000 kids every year in Muskegon County, and all of our services are free. So this event is crucial to our mission. After we pay the expenses, 100% of what is left over goes straight into the child abuse Council," said Gee.
Just a few blocks away, the annual Bike Time rally in its 18th year will also kick off in Muskegon Wednesday. Bike Time Board member, Tim Lipan, said he's expecting a big turn out.
"We're gonna have guests of close to 100,000 people, and somewhere around 50,000 bikes will show up over four days. Bike time isn't just for bikers, everyone comes out. It's family oriented," said Lipan.
Western Avenue in downtown Muskegon will be closed from Jefferson to 7th Street from July 17 through the 21st only allowing one-way motorcycle traffic. If this is your first year attending either rally, Lipan said people should come out and attend all the fun festivities.
"It's a sight to be seen. It's really a lot of fun and it's safe. You'll have a lot of different kinds of experiences. If you're into rock and roll, there's music everywhere," said Lipan.
Both Rebel Road and Bike Time kick off at 5pm Wednesday and will have events through Sunday.