Muskegon’s Unique Motorcycle Experience – Where Thunder Meets The Lakeshore “Muskegon Bike Time – Motorcycles, Music and More”

Community News |Jul 10, 2025|9 min read

MUSKEGON, Mich., July 9, 2025 – Now in its 19th year, Muskegon Bike Time will be welcoming motorcyclists and the general public to downtown Muskegon and the lakeshore to celebrate those who love to ride and those who love to just watch the phenomenon that descends on Muskegon annually the third weekend in July.

This year’s dates will be July 16th through the 20th, 2025.

The event attracts tens of thousands of people to downtown Muskegon including motorcycle enthusiasts from all around the country, as well as casual observers from all over Michigan, who visit Muskegon to experience the spectacular bikes, live music, shopping, a wide variety of food options, bike shows, contests and competitions.

The area also provides a variety of other must see sites that appeal to every taste, including expansive beaches, WWII ships, historic homes, beautiful parks and museums of all kinds – right in the center of all the action.

“Muskegon Bike Time offers motorcycle riders beautiful scenic rides along the shores of Lake Michigan and  as well as winding roads through picturesque forests and interesting small towns, said Tim Lipan, spokesperson for Muskegon Bike Time. “In addition to providing an economic boon to the area, attendees are treated to spectacular motorcycles, exciting attractions, entertainment, food and shopping.”

SCHEDULED EVENTS

With activities and events occurring in the downtown Muskegon area and throughout the county, the focal point of Bike Time activities will be at the Hot Rod Harley Davidson property in downtown Muskegon.   Activities include:

Bike Time Concerts

All concerts are free and presented by Tyler Sales on the Hot Rod Harley Davidson main stage.

Wednesday, July 16, 2025.

6:00pm – 10:00pm:  Group Therapy – playing super hits and dance tunes from the ages. Bringing back memories and creating new ones for all generations.

Thursday, July 17, 2025.

4:00pm – 5:00pm:  JP Dutton – This “one man band” will dazzle you with unique vocals and live tracks that sound like a full band as he rocks you through the decades with hits from the 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, 80’s, 90’s and now!

5:30pm – 7:30pm:  Big Nick & the Rhythm Kings – Big Nick and the Rhythm Kings is a West Michigan based blues rock band with a touch of funk, reggae, and soul. With a veteran rhythm section, and Big Nick Houseman on guitar and vocals, this power trio will not disappoint.

8:00pm – 11:00pm:  Westside Soul Surfers – One of West Michigan’s favorite bands, the Westside Soul Surfers play a mix of R&B, Soul, Funk and Rock! From soaring vocals to blazing horns and a driving rhythm section, the Soul Surfers play music that will get people from all age groups up and celebrating. Their unique take on the finest music of today’s generations will leave you wanting even more!

Friday, July 18, 2025

3:00pm – 5:30pm:  Extension Cord – A young West Michigan rock band with an old Rock & Roll soul. Playing rock hits from across the decades, this energetic group will keep the party going while including new hits and creative original songs.

6:00pm – 8:30pm:  Big Cadillac – A biker favorite, Big Cadillac covers all the classic rock, country and blues hits from 5 decades (1960’s to Present).

9:00pm – 11:00pm:  CRUSH – THE BON JOVI CONCERT EXPEREINCE has swiftly ascended to the upper echelons of tribute bands, earning accolades as one of the finest tributes to Bon Jovi.  At the helm is lead vocalist Doug Shepard, whose striking resemblance to Bon Jovi is uncanny. Not merely content with physical likeness, Doug Shepard impeccably channels Bon Jovi’s stage presence and vocal style, captivating audiences with his dynamic performances.  Mesmerizing audiences with their flawless renditions, Crush delivers electrifying performances of hits such as “Living on a Prayer”, “You Give Love a Bad Name”, “Wanted Dead or Alive”, “It’s My Life”, all performed with an arena sized production with plenty of moving lights, smoke and pyrotechnics…all paying tribute to the greatest band in the world – Bon Jovi!

Saturday, July 19, 2025 

1:00pm – 2:30pm:  The Carl Webb Band – The Carl Webb Band plays a blend of Americana music including rock, blues, jazz, country, folk and Latin music as well as originals.  They cover artists such as the Beatles, Santana, Johnny Cash, Keith Urban, Adele, One Republic, John Mayer, Ray Charles and the list goes on and on. The bottom line is these excellent musicians can play whatever the crowd demands.

5:30pm – 6:30pm:  Kindred – A local favorite three-piece band playing a variety of Rock, Country, Folk and New Age music.

7:00pm – 8:30pm:  Rocket Queen – Female fronted tribute to all the Guns – N – Roses hits you know & love!

9pm – 11pm:  Let There Be RockThe Ultimate AC/DC Tribute Band Experience. “Let There Be Rock” emulates the pure essence, power, and electricity of what an AC/DC show is all about.  Let There Be Rock features Von Scott’s hauntingly classic, highly recognizable vocal style and Angus Young’s raw guitar style and high energy stage presence. With a rock-solid rhythm section that rounds out this classic AC/DC tribute band experience… You don’t want to miss this!!

EVENTS

Bike Time provides all forms of attractions and contests including:

  • Harley-Davidson Demo Truck.

Take a spin on a new 2025 Motorcycle when the Harley-Davidson Demo Truck visits Muskegon Bike Time. There will be 17 models of bikes to choose from including a Trike. Riders will be able to test ride any model they wish at their leisure and on their ownA valid driver’s license with motorcycle endorsement and proper riding attire is required.  Friday and Saturday 9am – 4pm

  • West Michigan Arm Wrestling Championships.

 Think you have what it takes?  Join the 2025 West Michigan Arm Wrestling Championships. Saturday, July 19, 2025. Weigh-ins and registrations from 10am to 12pm. Competition begins at 1pm. Open to all. In the Hot Rod Harley Beverage Tent.

  • Miss Bike Time Bikini Contest

Hey ladies, here’s your chance to show off that new bikini. $1,000 cash prize. Winner take all. Saturday, July 19, 2025 from 3:00pm – 4:00 pm. Pre-registration is encouraged but not required. On the mainstage at Hot Rod Harley Davidson.

  • Dad Bod Contest

Hey Guys. We know you got it going on. Strut your stuff after the Bikini Contest for a chance at $250 cash. Saturday, July 19, 2025 at 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm. On the mainstage at Hot Rod Harley Davidson.

  • Hot Babe Bike Wash

 Get that road dust off your ride at our Hot Babe Bike Wash Station on Friday and Saturday at Hot Rod Harley Davidson.

  • Corn Hole Shootout Competition

 Cornhole Tournament with cash prizes.  Anyone can play.  Anyone can win.  Friday, July 18, 2025 at 5:00 pm – 9:00pm at Hot Rod Harley Davidson.

  • Tattoo Contest

 A Tattoo Contests like no other – offering prizes for both those exhibiting their ink and the artists who did the work! Additionally, the contests feature an interactive format that allows folks to see the work being showcased up-close. Participants and guests get to vote on their favorite work and possibly interact a little – allowing a much more fun and informal event. Friday, July 19, 2025 6:00pm – 9:30pm.

  • Beard Competition

Four different categories.  1st and 2nd place winners for each category.  Saturday, July 18, 2025.  Registration starts at 5:00.  Competition starts at 6:00. Sponsored by The Crue, Hot Rod Harley-Davidson & Warlord Beard Products.  Competition will be at Hot Rod Harley Davidson.

RIDES

Experience a variety of scenic rides along the beautiful West Michigan shoreline with stunning views of Lake Michigan, pristine rivers, and massive sand dunes, as well as winding roads through picturesque forests and interesting small towns.

  • Patriot Ride– Take a scenic ride of the area with over 200 of your closest friends. Ride is generally 1.5 hours long. A $10 donation per person supports a local charity. Sunday, July 21, 2024. Registration starts at 10am. Kick stands up at 11am.
  • 7 Lakes Northern Ride – scenic ride showcasing 7 different lakes and many interesting small towns in West Michigan.
  • Hot Rod Harley & Downtown – leaving Hot Rod Harley Davidson in downtown Muskegon, cruise the strip of Western Avenue, which is open to motorcycle traffic only, which includes beer tents, brewery’s, restaurants, vendors and other activities.
  • Pere Marquette Beach – visit one of the most beautiful sugar sand beaches in the country right on Lake Michigan.
  • Lake Shore Drive Southern Ride – this ride takes you along the Lakeshore to resort town of Grand Haven and the Dutch village of Holland and several lakes and rivers.

CAMPING AND LODGING

Camp in the middle of the party at Hot Rod Harley-Davidson during Muskegon Bike Time. RV and tent spaces available.  A variety of other lodging options are available including, hotels, motels, bed & breakfasts, Airbnb, beach cottages and boutique hotels.

FOOD AND BEVERAGES

A variety of food options will be available from several food trucks including Hamburger Mikey’s, Chick–fil-A and Big Red’s BBQ.  Enjoy ice cold Budweiser products and local craft brews.

BIKE TIME MERCHANDISE

Official Bike Time merchandise will be available.

MERCHANDISE VENDORS

A variety of vendors will be on site including Leather Goods, LED Lighting for Motorcycles, Eyewear, Motorcycle Audio Equipment and Jewelry.

HOT ROD HARLEY DAVIDSON

Most activities occur in and around the Hot Rod Harley Davidson dealership in downtown Muskegon.  A visit to one of the premier Harley dealerships is a must!

For more information on Muskegon Bike Time, please visit our website at www.muskegonbiketime.com  or follow us on Facebook or Twitter.

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The mission of Muskegon Bike Time is to produce entertainment opportunities in Muskegon aimed at attracting a broad spectrum of motorcycle enthusiasts for a vacation experience on Michigan’s West Coast. It is a 5 day annual celebration of motorcycles and the community held the third weekend in July.  The festival attracts motorcyclists and the general public for its spectacle, attractions, entertainment and food.