BMW Rally 2007 - An Insider's View

The fairgrounds were packed, corner to corner, with motorcycles, more motorcycles, tents, people, vendors, food, more tents and more motorcycles - for the entire long weekend.

We didn't have far to go, only about 125 miles, but we booked a hotel room in nearby Germantown for the weekend. Not being campers, we took the easy route - however, I think that the complete rally experience is only completely appreciated by those who camp. Leaving at dinner time, we miss the evening entertainment, and more importantly - the beer tent.

I did not miss the shopping experience of the 2007 BMW Rally, however, and was able to replenish myself with a new jacket, pants and a great new tank bag - (links and reviews to follow)

I'm not sure if this is model is available yet in the States.


Need a BMW Motorcycle for the 2009 Rally?

Another "For Sale" perfect 650 GS - this one could have very easily have come home with me.

I would love to ride a GS, but even with my height, I would need to seat lowered, just to change my ability to control the front end. This is the curse of the short-waisted woman.

Bikes, Bikes and More Bikes:
2007 BMW Rally Photos from the Rally Grounds

While the majority of the motorcycles parked on the fairgrounds of the 2007 BMW Rally were BMW's - of all varieties and vintages - there were also some non-BMW models - I spied a Ducati or two, a few Hondas, MotoGuzzi's - you name it. All were welcome, once the registration fee was paid and the blue wristlet in place.

The vendors were sprinkled throughout the fairgrounds - some outside, some inside, and some even incased in the 'small animal' barn.

The vintage motorcycles were safely parked in a livestock barn, where they could be oogled and ahh'ed over - justifiably, I might add. Those vintage bikes are beautiful. Undoubtably one of the highlights of the 2007 BMW Rally was the vintage bike display.

The Vintage BMW's:
Perfection in a Livestock Barn

In my opinion, these motorcycles - or motorbikes as they are properly called in their country of origin - are truly works of art. And the people who lovingly maintain them are curators. Keepers of art.

I was truly humbled, and so glad that people are willing to maintain the beauty of these magnificent machines.

And, I want to go wash my bright yellow BMW - I want the wheels to shine, the jugs to be flawless. I want my motorcycle to be as perfect as these 50 year old machines.

All of the remaining motorcycles in the barn, after the judging, are deserving of the ribbons. There is not a speck of dirt, no rust on the chrome, no dents in the metal. Perfection at its most perfect.

Wheels, Wheels and More Wheels

Yes, I'll take the credit - the crazy photographer at the 2007 BMW Rally.

My favorite wheel of the 2007 BMW Rally. This wheel, in particular, caught my eye.

Isn't it beautiful?

Found on a vintage motorcycle in the small animal barn.

This is the front wheel of one of the first RT models - which I wondered may have been marketed as a "comfort" bike for women. There were about four motorcycles, identical at the 2007 BMW Rally- all were a lovely light periwinkle color.