Laughlin River Run
Apr 22nd, 2009 through Apr 26th, 2009
Started in 1983, the Laughlin River Run has grown into one of the largest motorcycle events in the southwest. Set in southern Nevada, the Laughlin River Run offers typically great weather, great riding, and the great entertainment that is usual in a gambling resort in Nevada. Expect big names for bands featured each year throughout Laughlin. Laughlin River Run gets its name from the "river run" to Oatman, Arizona, a ghost town featuring re-enacted gun fights, and located on historic route 66.
The Laughlin River Run was marred in 2002, when two rival motorcycle clubs had a major brawl on Harrah's Laughlin casino floor with guns, knives and other weapons, resulting in three deaths and nine of the motorcycle clubs' members being charged with murder. I find it ironic that the same two motorcycle clubs contributed to the cancellation of the Hollister Independence Rally, due to law enforcements perceived "dodged an atomic bomb" attitude during the 2005 event.
Typical Events at Laughlin River Run
Laughlin River Run includes numerous events every year. Some of the best custom motorcycle builders, vendors, and manufacturers attend. A partial list of events is provided here, but I highly recommend going to the official website, listed below, to get a detailed listing as well as a schedule.
- Ms. River Run contest
- Poker Run
- Raffle for a new Harley Davidson motorcycle
- Live music throughout the event, at numerous locations
- Vendors - for about anything a biker would want
- Manufacturer displays
While at Laughlin River Run, don't miss these nearby attractions
Many people spend their entire vacation enjoying the events and comradery offered during the Laughlin River Run. But, if you want to just get away from the hustle and bustle that is Laughlin during the rally, here is a short list of some of some of the attractions nearby:
- The Grand Canyon South Rim is about 4 hours away
- London Bridge in Lake Havasu is about an hour and a half south
- Hoover Dam is less than two hours north
- Death Valley National Park is about four and a half hours north-west
Laughlin River Run Official Website (for further information)
- Laughlin River Run www.laughlinriverrun.com/home.php
Motels and Camping Near Laughlin River Run
Motorcycle related laws to know while attending Laughlin River Run
One of the common complaints when returning from a major motorcycle rally is about the law being rampant, and giving tickets out for every minor infraction. While we cannot stop all tickets from being given, some of those tickets are due to you, the attendee, not being aware of some of the standard laws in the state. Below are some of the most common laws for Nevada. Be aware, though, that many rally locations have recently passed local ordinances that may be more strict than the state law. For example, a new noise ordinance was passed in Myrtle Beach just in time for the 2005 Fall Rally. I make every effort to keep this information up to date, but you may want to research them more just prior to going to an event, just in case they have changed.
| Helmet Usage | Required by law |
| Eye Protection | Required by law unless equipped with windscreen |
| Daylight headlights | Modulating headlight permitted |
| Passenger Seat | Required if carrying a passenger |
| Passenger footrests | Required if carrying a passenger |
| Mirrors | Required |
| Turn Signals | Required if manufactured in 1973 or after |
| Mufflers | Muffler required. No cutout, bypass or similar device |
| Max Noise Level | Yes |
| Handlebar Height | Handgrips below shoulder height |
| Riding two abreast | Yes |