Elkhorn Half-Mile Flat Track Races

On Saturday, September 30, 2017, I rode my 2008 Bonneville from the Chicago area to Elkhorn, Wisconsin, with a buddy, to attend the Elkhorn Half-Mile Flat Track races at the Walworth County Fairgrounds. The grandstands were packed full of spectators as the various singles class heat races took place, and then the twins heat races.

I have to say I was very impressed by the size of the crowd for such a local flavor and type of event. I have been to many other AMA Pro Flat Track events, that did not have much more spectators than this event.

The event was simple and straightforward, focusing entirely on the racing and competition. There were no “umbrella girls”, massive sponsor ads, or fancy equipment. Everything was local and home-grown.

Judging by the t-shirt and clothing brands and slogans, there were fans there supporting every imaginable motorcycle manufacturer and brand including Harley-Davidson, Indian, Triumph, Yamaha, Suzuki, Honda, KTM, Kawasaki and more.

We saw many very nicely preserved vintage bikes as well.

One highlight for me was the swap meet that was winding down as we arrived for the racing event. One of the first vendors I walked up to had this 1963-1979 Clymer Triumph Twins Repair Manual laying out on display. I picked it up for $10.