Bikes, Blues and BBQ is billed as the largest charity motorcycle rally in the world. The event has helped raise more than $2 million for charities in Northwest Arkansas over the past 18 years. Every fall, you can hear the rumble build as hundreds of thousands of motor cycle enthusiasts ride into Fayetteville, AR.
Some locals love to participate in the fun and head down to Dickson Street to check out the bikes and grab a turkey leg. Others simply put up with the noise. Whichever way you lean, there’s no denying that Bikes, Blues and BBQ is a great event that helps serve those in need in our area.
Help keep BBB safe. Watch for people riding motorcycles and avoid distracted driving.
BBB changes traffic patterns
The event has brought in as many as 400,000 visitors, most of whom are on motorcycles. This means extra traffic in Northwest Arkansas, but it also means that drivers need to pay extra attention while driving on the roads. People riding motorcycles are more vulnerable than those driving cars, and drivers can help keep the roads safe.
Your normal commute to work can look much different during Bikes, Blues, and BBQ with a few hundred thousand extra motorcycles on the road. Many people find commuting stressful under normal circumstances; with increased noise levels and traffic jams, rush hour can be a whole new experience.
Give yourself extra time, consider taking a different route to work, and watch out for people who respond badly to the inconvenience. Drivers may do unexpected things under these circumstances.
Distracted driving is dangerous, and it can lead to serious accidents
There have been 49 motorcycle accidents in Fayetteville alone during Bikes, Blues and BBQ since 2013. To help keep Bikes, Blues and BBQ fun and safe, be sure to stay focused and aware while driving through Northwest Arkansas.
While Fayetteville hosts the rally, there are mapped rides throughout Northwest Arkansas and into Missouri. Expect to see motorcyclists on interstates, county roads, and on city streets.
Motorcyclists can increase their safety by also being aware, wearing helmets, and wearing bright colors to increase visibility, but drivers should be on the lookout. Keep your eyes open for motorcyclists, don’t text or talk on the phone while driving, and look twice before turning or changing lanes.