Bikes on the Bricks — Flint, Michigan’s Premier Motorcycle Rally

Where History Meets Horsepower

Every September, downtown Flint, Michigan roars to life for Bikes on the Bricks, one of the Midwest’s premier motorcycle rallies. In 2025, the event runs September 5–7, transforming the historic brick-lined Saginaw Street into a showcase of steel, chrome, and community. What started in 2007 as a small, rain-soaked gathering of just 100 die-hard riders has grown into a three-day spectacle drawing thousands of bikers, spectators, and families into the heart of Vehicle City.

The Story Behind the Bricks

The idea was born in the fall of 2007 as a motorcycle companion to Back to the Bricks, Flint’s famous automotive event. Community leaders including Don Williamson (then Flint Mayor), Larry Ford (former Genesee County Chamber of Commerce President), Gary Hagler (Acting Flint Police Chief), and Ron Lonsway of Vehicle City Harley-Davidson pushed the concept forward. Lonsway teamed with Kirk Bowles (Forest City Cycle Works), Ed Henderson (Top End Cycle), and radio voice Jeff Wade of WRSR 103.9, and in just three weeks the first rally was held—complete with a fledgling police motorcycle skills competition.

From that chilly October day, the event has only grown. Today, Bikes on the Bricks is a Flint institution, combining bike shows, stunt acts, live music, charity rides, vendors, and of course, the renowned police competition. Proceeds from the escorted ride have supported local causes like the Old Newsboys of Flint, Hurley Medical Center, Friends of the Flint Police, Young Marines, and St. Luke NEW Life Center—proving that this event is as community-driven as it is adrenaline-filled.

What’s On in 2025

• Police Motorcycle Skills Competition: All weekend long, elite officers from across the country demonstrate jaw-dropping control and balance. The finals hit on Sunday at 1:00 p.m.—a must-see highlight.
• Ed Henderson Police-Escorted Charity Ride (Saturday): Kickstands up at 11:00 a.m. from Vehicle City Harley-Davidson. Intersections blocked, riders cruising together at safe speeds, and all proceeds donated to local charities.
• Bike Show (Sunday): Registration runs 10 a.m.–1 p.m. at Saginaw & 4th Street. Awards follow the police finals. From radical customs to immaculate vintage machines, the variety is stunning.
• Stunt Shows by the VCR Team: Adrenaline-fuelled exhibitions Saturday at noon & 5 p.m., and Sunday at noon & 3 p.m. Downtown streets become their arena.
• Live Music & Entertainment: From the Jon Fett Quartet on Friday night to Perfect Stranger on Saturday and Jason Pyzik on Sunday afternoon, the soundtrack keeps the party alive.
• Miss Bikes on the Bricks Pin-Up Contest: Saturday at 3 p.m.—a classic nod to motorcycle heritage with a modern community vibe.
• Vendors, Merch & Beer Tent: Rows of gear, custom parts, apparel, and food vendors fill downtown. The beer tent stays open all weekend, serving as a social hub between shows and sets.

Why This Rally is Different

Bikes on the Bricks isn’t just about motorcycles—it’s about Flint. The event fuels downtown businesses, draws visitors from across Michigan and the Midwest, and celebrates the city’s resilience and spirit. Vehicle City Harley-Davidson serves as both a starting line and community cornerstone, while riders, police, and fans unite to share skills, stories, and support for local causes.

The balance of history, spectacle, and purpose makes Bikes on the Bricks unique: you’ll see artistry in custom machines, courage in police precision riding, community pride in the charity ride, and unity in the thousands who gather under Flint’s skyline.

Event Snapshot

• Dates: September 5–7, 2025
• Location: Downtown Flint, MI (centered on Saginaw Street)
• Presented By: Bikes on the Bricks & Vehicle City Harley-Davidson
• Signature Highlights: Police skills competition finals (Sunday), Ed Henderson Escorted Ride (Saturday from Vehicle City Harley-Davidson), Bike Show (Sunday), VCR stunt shows, live music, vendors, contests, and the beer tent

The Invitation

Bricks. Bikes. Brotherhood.

This September, put Flint on your ride map and be part of the roar. Bikes on the Bricks is more than a rally—it’s a living tradition built by riders, for riders, and for the community. Roll in for the escorted ride, line up for the bike show, cheer the stunts, and celebrate three full days of motorcycles, music, and Michigan pride.

Bring your bike. Bring your friends. Bring your voice to downtown Flint, September 5–7, 2025—when the streets come alive and the bricks themselves seem to rumble.

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