The LongRiders are the backbone of the Hot Bike Tour. Of course, the Build-Off bikes are what most people come to see, but when it comes to the daily riding and the spirit of the HBT, the LongRiders are what it’s all about. They ride from wherever they call home base or fly in and rent a bike—that part isn’t as important. What is important is that they spend the whole tour riding with us, every day waking up and putting the bike through its paces doing whatever the designated rides are.

This year, I rode from Indianapolis, through Lexington, and down to Maryville before heading into Johnson City for the final stop. I had Danny Wilson, a.k.a. the MotorWitch, and his buddies Tyler and Brooke along with me, as well as a rad guy on a Springer Softail named Ken. We kept a solid pace all the way through and saw some truly beautiful roads. I know Jeff and Jordan each led their own rides in from other locations, and I’m pretty sure they each had more riders than I did on my trip.

Here is a collection of photos of the LongRiders from our photographer Don Kates, who was with us all weekend. Thanks again for coming out and riding with us, and we hope to see you again next year!

Hot Bike Tour 2017: LongRiders Gallery

Don Kates

Hot Bike Tour 2017: LongRiders Gallery

Don Kates

Hot Bike Tour 2017: LongRiders Gallery

Don Kates

Hot Bike Tour 2017: LongRiders Gallery

Don Kates

Hot Bike Tour 2017: LongRiders Gallery

Don Kates

Hot Bike Tour 2017: LongRiders Gallery

Don Kates

Hot Bike Tour 2017: LongRiders Gallery

Don Kates

Hot Bike Tour 2017: LongRiders Gallery

Don Kates

Hot Bike Tour 2017: LongRiders Gallery

Don Kates

Hot Bike Tour 2017: LongRiders Gallery

Don Kates

Hot Bike Tour 2017: LongRiders Gallery

Don Kates

Hot Bike Tour 2017: LongRiders Gallery

Don Kates