SARASOTA – The annual Thunder by the Bay festival is the place for motorcycle enthusiasts to gather and trade stories about life on the road.
“For me its twist and grip and having the wind in your face, there’s no other freer feeling,” said Vincent, a motorcyclist visiting from Tampa.
Hundreds of people rolled into the Sarasota State Fairgrounds for the annual Thunder By The Bay festival. “Raced motorcycles my whole life, got 47 bikes now probably had over 500, I don’t even know,” said Steve Tilley.
Tilley has attended the motorcycle festival for more than a decade. Though he’s missed some shows these past few years he always rolls up on a classic ride. “I normally some old bike down, I brought this 48 now. It’s all original, totally original. Original paint 1948 Indian Chief,” he said.
Tilley competes in bike races across Florida. He says nothing compares to the feeling of riding on a classic bike.
“There’s nothing like it, it’s just the feeling going down the road,” said Tilley. “Looking down at the tank and the old speedometer it’s just things you don’t see anymore. You know that kind of things it’s just self-rewarding on time put in.”
This family friendly festival is not just for motorcycle enthusiast. Games, live music, and hundreds of vendors look to make this a diverse experience for all. From shopping for a new vest, jamming out to classic rock or learning about the mechanics of a motorcycle there is something for everyone to do.
“It’s always a class a show. It’s always crowed, always a lot if bikes and all this entertainment booze everything,” said Tilley.
The party at Thunder by the Bay ends at 10 p.m. on Saturday but don’t worry there is still time to join the fun. Gates open for the festival on Sunday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.