This time of year, a lot of places are closed any might not even be answering the phones on a consistent basis, so using the internet is the best way.  Don’t throw in the towel.  First go through my page of bike week lodging which will link you to the google information page for various properties, where you’ll get direct links to hotel websites and property reviews.

Also handy to know is that the Laconia chamber of commerce keeps a listing of places that currently have openings for bike week.  Not all members participate, and the information is usually a few days old, but it’s a good start. Click here to access the latest information.

Welcome to the Laconia Bike Week Insider, a project of mine I’ve been kicking around for a while. This site is brand new, so check back often for updates. I’ll have new pics and will be posting HD video during bike week this year.

On the subject of video, I was poking around on Youtube and found some videos from last year and older that I liked, so I thought I’d share here.  The first shows Lakeside Ave.

Vendors on Lakeside Ave

Over 300 vendors attend bike week to sell and show off their wares. Most are located at the Drive-In Theater and along Lakeside Ave. Others are scattered along route three around Funspot and the Broken Spoke, and as far north at Laconia Harley Davidson in Meredith. Some past vendors include Bear Hollow Boots, Fat Boys, Show Off Ink, Above All Leather, House of Sheesha, Spider’s Promotions, Art Attack, Jim’s French Fries, Ryder Sports, Simply Silver, and Icicles Eyewear.

Vendor Names & Maps

Last time I tried to get an official list of bike week vendors from the city, they told me I had to pay for it. So, forget that. Here is some information from WeirsBeach.com. The graphics are from 2000, but things haven’t changed that much.

• Drive-In Theater Area Vendors
• Beachview Bazaar Vendors
• Half Moon Vendors
• Waterslide Area Vendors
• Winnipesaukee Marketplace Vendors

Want to be a Vendor?

• The vending period is from 6/12 @ 8:00am and ends 6/20 @ midnight and the fee is $450. You can vend the Friday before (6/11) for an extra $50.
• Food vendors face an additional inspection fee of $50, and if flammable heat sources are used for cooking you need a permit from the Laconia Fire Department. (603) 524-6881.
• Acquire your vending location from property owners that have been approved by the city.
• Fill out the cities application for vending, and mail in your payment before June 1st to avoid stiff late fee penalties.
• A separate license is required for additional vending locations, even if on the same property. No subletting.
• If you have any questions regarding licensing you may call (603) 528-6331.

For complete vending regulations and mailing addresses for payment:

• Official Vending Information from the City

]]> http://www.laconia-bike-week.info/2009/vendor-information/feed/ 0 http://www.laconia-bike-week.info/2009/nh-motorcycle-laws/ http://www.laconia-bike-week.info/2009/nh-motorcycle-laws/#comments Wed, 25 Nov 2009 23:33:16 +0000 admin http://laconiabikeweek.wordpress.com/?p=74

These are some of the laws that pertain to motorcyclists. For a more complete list and enough reading to keep you busy for a lifetime, do a search of the state website.

• Helmet required for people under age 18
• Eye protection required if your bike doesn’t have a windshield
• No lane splitting
• No riding more than two abreast
• Passengers must have a seat with footrest, no age limits
• Muffler required, sound must not exceed 106dBA at 20 inches from pipe at a 45 degree angle
• No restrictions on helmet speakers
• One left or right mirror required
• Handlebar height must be at or below shoulder level when seated
• Wheel stands and burnouts constitute are considered reckless conduct and can result in a citation.

Show your support by supporting businesses that support Laconia Bike Week!

Airport Country Store & Deli
ACME Choppers
AmeriGas
Amoskeag Beverages, LLC
Applebee’s Restaurant
Atlas Advanced Pyrotechnics
Attitash Alpine Slides
Attitash Grand Summit Resort Hotel
AutoServ Dealerships
Awakenings Espresso Cafe
Beachview Bazaar
Baja Beach Club @ China Bistro
Belknap Point Motel
Belknap Tire and Auto Repair

Laconia Bike Week – The Top 5 List

Bike Week on Lakeside Ave.

Author: Byron Mackelroy

Born from the “Loudon Classic”, a motorcycle race that started in 1923 Laconia Motorcycle Week is one of the largest motorcycle rallies in the United States with attendance of up to 400,000 visitors in some years. Every year the nine days leading up to father’s day brings in a groundswell of bikers and bikes of all different varieties. From souped-up super customs to rip-roaring race bikes, Bike Week is sure to tickle the fancy of any motorcycle enthusiast. Here are the top 5 things to ensure you have the time of your life during the festivities.

The Loudon Races and the Gunstock Hill Climbs

Laconia Motorcycle Week started as a rally to watch the local bike races. The Loudon Classic Race, the original event, is the longest continually running motorcycle race in America. If you enjoy racing, make it a point to visit the New Hampshire International Speedway in Loudon. For those of you looking for something a bit more unorthodox, the Gunstock Hill Climbs are the event for you. Watch from the base of the local ski resort as daredevils on supercharged hill climb bikes race up the slopes for the best time. This event always has a few close calls that will leave you with a few stories to tell your friends when you get back home.

Cruising the lake

There is no other way to say it, Lake Winnipesaukee is one of the most scenic lakes in the world. Covering almost 69 square miles, Lake Winnipesaukee’s stretch of pristine water harbors hundreds of islands and numerous towns and villages. During your Bike Week Adventure, either by car or Harley, make it a point to cruise the circuit running the perimeter of the lake. Your trip will take you through quaint harbor towns like Meredith and Wolfeboro. Each village and town has its own character as well as numerous restaurants and stores to visit. The scenic stretches of road running higher up the mountainside will open up panoramic views of dark blue lakes and rolling green mountain spanning out as far as the eye can see.

The Weirs

Everyone knows that the Weirs Beach area in Laconia is the heart and soul of Bike Week. This boardwalk and beach area offers host to many of the vendors and drinking establishments that make Bike Week such a crazy event. While it may not be “kid friendly”, the Weirs offers some of the best people watching in the world during the rally. Throw on your leathers, show off your tattoos and add some extra time to find a parking spot, a visit to the Weirs is like stepping into one of the Mad Max movies.

The Train

For those of you who want to take in the festivities, tip back a few drinks and avoid the parking problems, be sure to check out the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad. This vintage railroad offers transportation directly to the train station on the Weirs Boardwalk from the more Quiet towns of Meredith and Lakeport. With tickets pricing in at only $12.50 for a round trip, this ride is well worth the investment.

Lodging

With all the opportunities for a goodtime during Laconia Motorcycle Week one thing is for certain, at the end of the day you are going to be exhausted. Planning for this fact ahead of time can make the difference between a good trip and a great trip. For those attendees looking to be in the thick of the action, make sure to get your reservations early and look for a New Hampshire hotel like the Summit Resort (http://www.summitresortnh.com/) near the Weirs that fits your needs. The Summit Resort, just walking distance from Weirs Beach, offers fantastic amenities from indoor pools and roman spas to saunas and a weight room. If you are looking for a bit more peace and quiet after a long day, check out Steele Hill Resorts (http://www.steelehillresorts.com/) right outside of Laconia. Steele Hill Resorts, the largest resort in central New Hampshire, offer close proximity to the rally with killer views and a list of amenities that will make your head spin.

Bike Week is a unique New Hampshire tradition. The Lakes Region is proud to host such a colorful event. If you are a hardcore bike, someone looking to experience something new or just a fan of the races, make it a point to plan out your trip and get ready for a goodtime. Don’t forget your bandana.

Article Source:

http://www.articlesbase.com/destinations-articles/laconia-bike-week-the-top-5-list–781403.html

About the Author:
I am an aspiring travel writer. My goal is to provide helpful travel tips and highlight exciting destinations.