Insider Tips
Looking forward to AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days? Whether it’s your first time here or your fifth, we’ve got a list of tips and tricks to help you make the most of your long weekend surrounded by vintage bikes — and fellow vintage bike enthusiasts! Whether you’re looking forward to lurking around the swap meet or ready to drag your knee around the racetrack, here are the best hacks to help you make the most of your time at VMD:
- Get with the program. Ask the folks staffing the front gate for an official VMD event program, which includes a site map and full event schedule, before you even enter the grounds. The AMA schedule helps you plan your VMD experience so you won’t miss anything. Much of the event (swap meet, demo rides, stunt exhibitions and racing) is always-on, but a few featured activities only happen once per event. You don’t want to miss something special, so check the schedule and plan to be there!
- Wear your walking shoes. Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course covers 330 acres! You’ll be walking. A lot.
- Bring cash. You WILL want to buy something at the swap meet, and vendors may not have credit card readers.
- Line up early. Demo rides fill up quickly. Get your name on the list, then enjoy other events until it’s time for your ride.
- Bring your mud boots. If it’s rained recently, you’ll want them.
- Learn something. Reserve some time to attend a seminar or two.
- Don’t forget your lawn chairs. Portable comfort is invaluable.
- Stake out your motor home spot early. It’s first come, first serve — unless you have Mid-Ohio’s season pass.
- Don’t forget sunscreen. You don’t want to have to cut the fun short because of a sunburn.
- Bring the kids. Children 12 and younger get in for free!
- What about our furry friends? Please abide by the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course pet guidelines, found here.
- Don’t miss the bike show! The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Bike Show in the infield is a highlight of Saturday’s activities.
- Wall of Death. Enough said. Don’t miss it.
- Haggle at the swap meet. Preferably not with your spouse.
- Enjoy the silence. OK, there is no “silence.” But Mid-Ohio does provide a family camping area with a less hectic atmosphere.
- Be social. Follow the AMA on social media for special giveaways, information and more: facebook.com/AMAVintageMotorcycleDays; Instagram @amavintagemotorcycledays #AMAVMD.
- Protect yourself. If you plan to ride your motorcycle on the track for the Lap of History or participate in the field meet, bring long pants, closed-toe shoes and a helmet. And wear them.
- Tune in! 90.3 FM broadcasts all the races.
- Rent a ride. Golf carts are available for rent if you are 18 or older and licensed to drive: make your reservation now.
- Take part in the Ashland Dinner Ride. Join AMA representatives on a group ride through the countryside and then settle in for the Saturday night Flat Track races at nearby Ashland Fairgrounds. Ride participants get dinner, reserved seats and a pit pass for the race.
- Sell something! Bring that motorcycle you haven’t been able to sell, stick a for-sale sign on it and ride it around the event. Everyone will see it, and someone just may buy it right out from under you.
- Hang out. In the infield you can enjoy pit bike racing, the off-road recreational riding area, beer garden (please drink responsibly), bike shows, live music and so much more.
- Follow the trail. There’s some great competition happening in the woods, including vintage trials and hare scrambles. Sitting on a lawn chair with your favorite cold beverage and watching some vintage woods racing is a great way great way to spend the hottest part of the day!
- Do your research. Check the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course website for specific facility information like camping, accommodations for guests with disabilities, track FAQs and more.
- Make new friends! AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days is one huge motorcycle party, and everyone is there to have a great time with bikes. What could be better than that?