Muskegon Bike Time Expanding In 2015

 “Expectations of guests and need for more space necessitate move to larger location”

MUSKEGON, Mich. – After eight successful years, Muskegon Bike Time will be expanding to a new location at 4800 S. Harvey Street, Muskegon, MI. As the fastest growing motorcycle festival in the country, the event has attracted over 120,000 people and over 75,000 motorcycles, annually, to downtown Muskegon. The expansion will help address several needs including more space for vendors, more attractions and more entertainment.

“The expansion is in response to our visitors requests and the long term sustainability of Bike Time”, said Bike Time Board Chairman, Clyde Whitehouse. “This new and exciting venue will allow Bike Time to grow beyond its current physical restraints, yet retain the downtown experience”.

Muskegon Bike Time will take place July 16 -19, 2015.

A recent survey of Bike Time visitors indicated overwhelmingly that they wanted more motorcycle parts and accessories vendors, merchandise and shopping options, attractions, food options and entertainment.

The new location is on the site formerly known as Great Lakes Downs on Harvey Street. This new site will have plenty of space for growth and will allow for the expansion of vendors and will feature new attractions like motocross races, motorcycle stunt shows, and other features for the whole family. In addition, adult beverages will be available over the entire site. Future growth plans include the sorely needed availability of camping.

The property at Harvey Street is owned by the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians, the group that also owns Little River Casino in Manistee, Mi. Little River Casino is a major sponsor of Muskegon Bike Time. The property will be cleaned up and maintained and will allow for the growth needed by Muskegon Bike Time. “The Little River Band of Ottawa Indians has always wanted to be an integral part of the economic growth of the greater Muskegon area and this partnership with Little River Casino helps accomplish their goal”, said Whitehouse.

Over the years, Muskegon Bike Time has been an economic boon to hotels, restaurants, bars, gas stations, local retailers and other local tourist attractions. Bike Time provides an economic impact of over $30 million yearly to the local economy.

The recent survey also indicated that 54% of Bike Time visitors came from outside the Muskegon area. This enhances awareness of the greater Muskegon area and showcases our natural beauty and other valuable assets including 26 miles of sugar sand beaches and dunes, Lake Michigan, some of the best sunsets in the world, amusement parks and a variety of culture and arts for every taste and budget.

Bike Time also supports the community by assisting 22 charities with financial support. In addition, the coming together of people in a common interest binds communities, strengthens friendships and exposes people to new ideas and directions. Bike Time helps our community grow and is a vital piece of weaving the fabric that is our community.

Muskegon Bike Time provides sponsorship options that can help supporters reach new customers, promote their brand, entertain clients, customers and employees, enhance the community image and assist local charitable causes. For more information on sponsorship opportunities call 231-722-0000.

For more information on Muskegon Bike Time 2015, please visit our website at www.muskegonbiketime.com .

The mission of Muskegon Bike Time is to produce entertainment opportunities in Muskegon aimed at attracting a broad spectrum of motorcycle enthusiasts for a vacation experience on Michigan’s West Coast. It is a 4 day annual celebration of motorcycles and the community held the third weekend in July. The festival attracts motorcyclists and the general public for its spectacle, attractions, entertainment and food.