Welcome, bikers: stay and play

Editorial Page / July 21, 2006

Motorcycles sporting the distinct blue-and-white BMW logo are everywhere in Vermont.

The bikes are rolling up Interstate 89, touring Vermont's scenic backroads and lined up in restaurant, motel and campground parking lots.

They are part of the 34th International Rally of BMW Motorcycle Owners of America being held at the Champlain Valley Exposition Center, an event that is expected to pump about $5 million into Vermont's economy.

The bikers booked Lake Carmi State Park for several days. Some riders came earlier than the Thursday start and others plan to stay in the area for a few days after the event ends Saturday evening. That signals a distinct cha-ching for cash registers throughout the state.

These riders can't carry a lot of food or equipment on their bikes. But they have room for a credit card. And for that -- and the boost it means for the state's summertime revenues -- Vermonters should be grateful.

In addition, organizers are holding fund-raisers to benefit Camp Ta-Kum-Ta, a place of summertime fun for children with cancer.

The BMW motorcycle owners have come from across the nation, Canada and a dozen other countries to visit with old friends, play tourist in Vermont's spectacular summer season, shop for hard-to-find parts, and attend seminars on everything from motorcycle touring in the Pyrenees Mountains to oilhead engine disassembly.

They'll be talking to vendors with names like the Tri State Butt Buffer, Twisted Throttle, Motophoria, and Big Ear.

Mostly -- and not unlike the owners of Harleys, Ducatis and virtually every other motorcycle brand -- the BMW owners will spend most of their time talking about why their bike is the best. There are an estimated 40,000 BMW motorcycle owners in the association, and not surprisingly they are a brand-loyal group.

Vermont should roll out the red carpet and show these visitors the best this state has to offer.

That also includes a reminder to drivers to be especially careful and alert for bikers. Be aware that these riders might make unexpected turns or moves because they are not as familiar with Vermont roads and directions. And extend every driving courtesy for safety's sake.

The Expo also receives a thanks for its solid history of marketing what this state has to offer and secure conventions and other events that keep the tourists rolling in. Nice work!