Bike shows are a frequent occurrence in California these days, but Paso Robles' Mid State Rally is easily one of the best. We go to a lot of shows throughout the year and there are a few factors which make a show a good one. When you get past the obvious criteria like the number of builders and parts booths compared to the trinket and gut-buster foodstuff dealers, think about what's going on outside the fences of the venue. We ask ourselves questions like: How close is the venue to hotels, bars, and restaurants? Are there some good roads to ride after the show? How easy was it to find the show?
The Paso Robles Mid State Rally had it all. There was a good number of bars and restaurants within walking distance from the fairgrounds and many of the hotels (walking distance is key, that way no one has to drink and ride). Also, the Paso Robles Fairgrounds were easy to find; you could see the site from the 101 Freeway. Even the atmosphere of the event was cool. There was an Old West feel thanks to many of the buildings that housed grills (some good barbecue eats) and the "Ink and Iron" display featuring a number of local tattoo artists along with a few bike builders.
This particular rally had a good number of builders (Mitch Bergeron, Johnny Chop, Tom Foster, Cole Foster of Salinas Boys, Simms, Aaron Greene of Paramount, Thunder Mountain Customs, Trollworx, and Mondo of Denver's Choppers), plus there was quite a lot of parts vendors and an assortment of T-shirt and food vendors.
Overall, the show had great variety, and we can't wait to go back next year. For more information on upcoming bike shows in your area, check out: www.horsepowerpromotions.com