Confirmed rally details
Ten days in Sturgis and the Black Hills
The City of Sturgis confirms the 86th annual rally for August 7–16. This planner uses the dependable part of the official NWS forecast for opening day only; later rally days will enter the hourly forecast window as the event approaches.
- Rally dates
- Friday, August 7, through Sunday, August 16
- Location
- Sturgis, South Dakota, and the surrounding Black Hills
- Weather focus
- Opening-day riding, walking and outdoor preparation
- Road source
- South Dakota 511 for current road and weather conditions
Live official NWS planning
Best time to go out on Sturgis Rally opening day
Comparing Friday, August 7 hours with the newest official National Weather Service rain, temperature and wind forecast. This opening-day window can help with riding, walking and outdoor errands; later rally days will be added only as they enter the dependable hourly forecast range.
This identifies a better weather window for opening-day outdoor planning, not a promise that riding conditions are safe or that rally activities will proceed unchanged. Follow NWS warnings, South Dakota 511, event officials, law enforcement and local emergency instructions.
Noncommercial weather preparation
What to check before riding or walking
Heat and sun exposure
Compare early hours with the afternoon heat before choosing an outdoor window. Water, sun protection and a planned cooling stop may be useful; no purchase is required.
Wind and thunderstorms
Review hourly wind, storm wording, alerts and radar before every ride. A better weather window is planning guidance, not a statement that motorcycle conditions are safe.
Official road conditions
Use South Dakota 511 for road-weather conditions, closures and construction information. Follow temporary controls, posted speeds and instructions from public-safety officials.
Rally dates and city guidance come from the City of Sturgis. Road and traveler guidance comes from the South Dakota Department of Transportation. Forecasts and alerts come from the National Weather Service Rapid City. MyUSA.us is independent and 100% ad-free.