Laconia Motorcycle Week 2026 is set to bring thousands of riders to New Hampshire from June 13 to June 21, 2026, for another year of riding, racing, live entertainment, and biker camaraderie. This year marks the 103rd annual running of America's oldest motorcycle rally, a milestone worth riding in for. Held in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire, this is the oldest national motorcycle rally in the United States, and it keeps getting bigger. Over 300,000 riders roll in every year for a full week of riding, racing, live music, and pure biker culture.
Whether this is your first time making the trip or you've been coming for years, this guide covers everything you need: the schedule, the best routes, what to pack, and the gear that’ll carry you through every mile.
What Is Laconia Motorcycle Week?
Laconia Motorcycle Week is one of the largest motorcycle gatherings in North America, attracting hundreds of thousands of riders to New Hampshire's Lakes Region each year. The event combines scenic rides, motorcycle racing, live entertainment, bike shows, vendor exhibits, and community events across multiple towns throughout the region. Whether you're interested in touring, custom bikes, racing action, or simply spending time with fellow riders, Laconia Motorcycle Week offers a full schedule of activities both on and off the road.
The History Behind The World’s Oldest Motorcycle Rally
Laconia Motorcycle Week traces its origins to the summer of 1916, when a group of motorcyclists gathered informally at Weirs Beach on Lake Winnipesaukee. It was not an organized or officially sanctioned event at the time, but rather part of the early “Gypsy Tour” movement, in which riders traveled long distances to meet, camp, and ride together.
In 1917, the Federation of American Motorcyclists (FAM) formally sanctioned Gypsy Tours, and Laconia became one of the recognized stops in this growing national series of motorcycle gatherings. This marked the point at which the event began shifting from an informal meetup to an organized annual tradition.
The racing tradition came later. One of the most defining additions to the rally was competitive racing. In 1938, promoter Fritzie Baer was instrumental in relocating the annual Gypsy Tour race from Old Orchard Beach, Maine, to Gilford, New Hampshire. That first race took place in September 1938, marking the beginning of what would become a deeply rooted racing tradition at Laconia. In 1964, the road race moved to what is now known as New Hampshire Motor Speedway, where it remains a centerpiece of Bike Week to this day.
Over the following decades, the combination of touring rides, community gatherings, and professional racing shaped the identity of Laconia Motorcycle Week. Today, it continues as one of the longest-running motorcycle rallies in North America, drawing riders from across the country each summer.
What To Expect At Laconia Motorcycle Week 2026
Laconia Bike Week is an entire week packed with scheduled activities, open rides, and spontaneous moments only a rally this size can deliver. Here’s a breakdown of what’s on offer.
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Racing And Competition
The New Hampshire Motor Speedway hosts the annual Loudon Classic, one of the oldest and most respected motorcycle races in the country. AMA-sanctioned events run throughout the week, including vintage races, flat track, and hill climb competitions. The Gunstock Mountain Hill Climb is a must-see; riders attack the slope at Gunstock Mountain in a raw test of power and nerve.
The USCRA FIM North American Vintage Championships (June 13–14) bring an additional layer of racing heritage to the week, with classic machines hitting speeds of over 130 mph on the NHMS track
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Gypsy Rides And Scenic Routes
The AMA Gypsy Tour rides are a defining part of the Laconia experience. These group rides take you through some of New England’s best roads, lakeside curves, mountain switchbacks, and forest-lined highways. The Mount Washington Auto Road run is a standout, climbing one of the Northeast's most iconic roads with views stretching for miles.
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Shows, Vendors, And Live Events
Weirs Beach stays busy all week. The boardwalk area is lined with vendor villages, gear displays, swap meets, and demo rides from brands like Harley-Davidson, Indian, and Yamaha. Bike shows showcase everything from custom builds to vintage iron. Evenings bring live music, stunt shows, raffles, and theme nights that keep the energy going long after sunset.
Laconia Motorcycle Week 2026 Schedule Highlights
The rally runs June 13 through June 21, 2026, in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region. While the core dates for major events are confirmed, many daily timings are released closer to Bike Week and can shift based on weather, traffic planning, and venue operations. Riders should treat listed times as planned windows rather than fixed schedules and check official Laconia Motorcycle Week updates before heading out each day.
1. Saturday, June 13, 2026: Opening Day
Peter Makris Memorial Run
A traditional opening ride around Lake Winnipesaukee, finishing at the NASWA Resort. This ride is widely recognized as the unofficial kickoff to Bike Week. Registration opens at 8:30 AM and runs until 9:30 AM at the NASWA Resort, with kickstands up at 10:30 AM.
2. Sunday, June 14, 2026:
AMA Gypsy Tour to NHMS
The AMA Gypsy Tour departs Rally Headquarters on Lakeside Avenue at 10:30 AM, heading to New Hampshire Motor Speedway for the USCRA FIM North American Vintage Championships. One of the most organized group rides of the week.
3. Monday, June 15, 2026:
Mae-West Memorial "For the Love of Pets" Ride
A community-favorite scenic ride departing Rally Headquarters at Weirs Beach at 8:30 AM. This annual charity ride benefits animal welfare and draws a strong turnout of riders looking to give back during Bike Week.
4. Tuesday, June 16, 2026:
Ride to the Racetrack – New Hampshire Motor Speedway
A group ride departing from Laconia Harley-Davidson heading to New Hampshire Motor Speedway (NHMS), a major motorsports facility that hosts NASCAR and other professional racing events. This is a charity ride supporting New England children in need. Riders make laps around NHMS's 1.6-mile full-road course, one of the most distinctive experiences Bike Week offers. Registration begins at Laconia Harley-Davidson with kickstands up at 9:00 AM.
5. Wednesday, June 17, 2026:
Gunstock Mountain Hill Climb
AMA-sanctioned hill climb at Gunstock Mountain Resort featuring custom and competition-built bikes. Start times are announced closer to Bike Week and may shift based on conditions and event flow.
6. Thursday, June 18, 2026:
Ride to the Sky (Mount Washington Auto Road)
A guided group ride toward Mount Washington Auto Road. Registration opens at Laconia Harley-Davidson at 7:00 AM, with kickstands up at 9:00 AM. This is a 90-mile one-way ride with one planned stop; arrive early, as it fills up fast.
7. Friday–Saturday, June 19–20, 2026:
Shows and Evening Events
Bike shows, stunt performances, live music, and vendor events run across multiple locations. Exact timing is confirmed by individual hosts during the rally week.
Throughout the Week
The Loudon Classic at New Hampshire Motor Speedway remains the main racing highlight of Bike Week. Race schedules are managed by NHMS and may be adjusted by organizers based on official race-day conditions.
Note: Event times may change as Motorcycle Week approaches. Check the official Laconia Motorcycle Week channels regularly for updated schedules, vendor announcements, registration details, and newly added events.
Best Rides Near Laconia During Bike Week
New Hampshire’s Lakes Region is built for riding. The roads around Lake Winnipesaukee alone offer enough variety to fill several days. Here are the routes riders keep coming back to:
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Lake Winnipesaukee Loop: A classic circuit around the lake with sweeping curves, water views, and plenty of stops along the way.
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Kancamagus Highway (The Kanc): 34 miles of pure riding through the White Mountain National Forest. No traffic lights, no development, just road and trees.
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Franconia Notch: Mountain gaps, dramatic cliffs, and steady elevation changes. A favorite for sport and touring riders alike.
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Meredith to Center Harbor: A short lakeside stretch with great views and easy access to food stops and gear shops.
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Route 25 through Moultonborough: Less traveled, more rewarding. Good slab for cruising and exploring smaller towns around the region.
Gear Up Right: What To Wear At Laconia Bike Week 2026
Your gear at Laconia needs to handle all-day riding, unpredictable New England weather, and long nights on the boardwalk. We carry everything you need to ride protected and look the part.
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Motorcycle Helmets
New Hampshire does not have a universal helmet law for adults, but wearing a quality DOT-approved helmet is strongly recommended, especially on mountain roads like the Kanc and Franconia Notch. At the rally, you’ll see everything from full-face sport lids to open-face retro styles. Renegade Classics carries a full range built for long rides, from minimalist half-shells to ventilated full-face options.
Shop Motorcycle Helmets at Renegade Classics before your next ride through the White Mountains.
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Leather Jackets
New Hampshire mornings in June start cool. By midday, temperatures climb. A quality riding jacket handles both, with built-in ventilation for the heat and enough coverage to block the morning chill on the highway. Renegade Classics carries men’s and women’s jackets in classic black, distressed brown, and rally-ready styles.
Explore Leather Motorcycle Jackets built for comfort, protection, and long days on the road.
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Leather Vests
A leather vest is rally gear at its core. It keeps your patches visible, layers easily over a hoodie, and works just as well on the bike as it does walking the vendor rows. Renegade Classics vests are built with reinforced stitching and premium hides, with conceal-carry options and a range of lining styles.
Find your next Leather Motorcycle Vest at Renegade Classics and gear up for Bike Week.
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Motorcycle Boots
You’re on your feet a lot during Bike Week, walking the boardwalk, standing at vendor stalls, and working the pegs for hours on the Kanc. Renegade Classics carries engineer boots, harness boots, and riding-specific designs with ankle support, anti-slip soles, and oil-resistant construction.
Browse Motorcycle Boots designed for long rides, all-day comfort, and dependable traction.
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Motorcycle Gloves
Grip matters on winding mountain roads. So does hand protection when you’re covering 200+ miles in a day. Renegade Classics motorcycle gloves come in full gauntlet styles for cold mornings and fingerless designs for warm afternoons on the boardwalk. Deerskin and cowhide options balance feel and durability.
Shop Motorcycle Gloves that give you comfort, control, and protection mile after mile.
What To Pack For A Full Week At Laconia
A week in New Hampshire requires more planning than a weekend run. Here’s a practical packing list:
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Rain gear: New England weather changes fast. A compact rain suit that packs into a saddlebag has saved many a ride.
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Layering pieces: Zip-up hoodies, thermal underlayers, and a light flannel work well under your jacket for cool mornings.
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Sunscreen and eye protection: Long hours on the road mean serious UV exposure. UV-blocking wrap-around glasses or a tinted visor are essential.
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Communication and navigation: A Bluetooth headset or a tank-mounted GPS makes a real difference over multiple days of unfamiliar mountain roads.
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Tool kit and tire kit: Carry a basic plug kit, CO2 cartridges, and a few hand tools. Remote roads around the White Mountains are not the place to be stranded.
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Rally-day cash: Vendor stalls and swap meets often run cash only. Bring more than you think you’ll need.
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Camping gear (if staying at Motorcycle Nirvana): Sleeping bag, ground pad, and a small tent rated for cooler temps. June nights in the Lakes Region can drop into the low 50s°F.
Getting To Laconia Motorcycle Week
Laconia is about 94 miles from Boston, and the drive takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Under normal conditions, it's closer to 1 hour 40–50 minutes, and the driving distance from Laconia to New York City is 291 miles, which takes about 4 hours 58 minutes. The most direct approach from the south is I-93 North to Exit 20, dropping you into the Lakes Region. From there, Route 3 and Route 11B connect the main rally hubs.
Weirs Beach is the central gathering point. Parking fills early, so arriving before 9 AM gives you the best shot at a good spot close to the action.
Accommodation
Book accommodations at least six months out. The Lakes Region sells out completely during rally week. Hotels within 20 miles of Weirs Beach go first; campgrounds close second. Motorcycle Nirvana near Loudon is the top pick for serious attendees who want to stay close to the racing.
If you’re hauling your bike in a trailer, plan for additional time to navigate rally traffic. Locals know the alternate routes, and rally staff post traffic advisories throughout the week on the official Laconia Motorcycle Week channels.
Tips For First-Time Laconia Attendees
If this is your first time at New Hampshire’s biggest rally, a little prep goes a long way. Here’s what veterans wish they’d known early.
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Ride in groups on unfamiliar mountain roads: The Kanc and Franconia Notch are beautiful but unforgiving. Stick with riders who know the roads until you’ve done them once.
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Arrive early for events: The Loudon Classic and Gunstock Hill Climb attract massive crowds. Getting there 45 minutes early makes a real difference.
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Explore beyond Weirs Beach: Smaller towns like Meredith, Wolfeboro, and Moultonborough offer great food, quieter roads, and a less crowded rally experience.
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Respect the locals: The Lakes Region community supports this rally because riders have treated the area well for over a century. Keep that record going.
Why Renegade Classics Is The Right Stop Before You Ride
Laconia Motorcycle Week 2026 gear starts with knowing what the road actually demands. Renegade Classics has been outfitting riders with premium leather and riding gear for years. Every product in the collection is built for riders who take their mileage seriously.
Before you load up and point north, make sure your kit is dialed in. Stock up at renegadeclassics.com, browse jackets, vests, helmets, gloves, and boots, and ride into Laconia ready for whatever the week brings.
Ride Into Laconia Ready
Laconia Motorcycle Week 2026 is more than a rally; it’s a hundred years of American riding culture packed into one week in the mountains of New Hampshire. The roads are waiting. The events are set. Head to renegadeclassics.com before you leave, pick up the gear you need, and arrive ready to ride free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When is Laconia Motorcycle Week 2026?
Laconia Motorcycle Week 2026 runs June 13 through June 21, 2026, in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire.
Is Laconia Motorcycle Week family-friendly?
Many families attend. Events like the bike shows, vendor villages, and gypsy rides are open to all ages and easy to enjoy together.
Do I need a motorcycle to attend the Laconia motorcycle rally?
No, you do not need to ride in. Many fans attend as spectators, especially for the Loudon Classic and Gunstock Hill Climb events.
Does New Hampshire require a helmet to ride?
New Hampshire does not have a universal helmet law for adult riders. However, wearing a DOT-approved helmet is strongly recommended, particularly on the technical mountain roads around the White Mountain National Forest.
What gear should I bring to Laconia Bike Week?
Pack a riding jacket, motorcycle boots, gloves, rain gear, and layers for cool mornings and warm afternoons. A DOT-approved helmet is strongly recommended. See the full gear and packing sections above for a complete checklist.
