RAGBRAI 2012: Bikers come together at National Motorcycle Museum

Anamosa, Ia. – For a time, the National Motorcycle Museum in Anamosa became a haven for both motorcyclists and RAGBRAI riders, brought together by a common love for two-wheeled transportation.

RAGBRAI riders were through the doors as soon as the museum opened at 9 a.m., said office manager Jessica Gorman, 33.

Then, at 11, a group of 60 motorcyclists rode in from Newton, taking a break while on the Iowa Grand Rally. They mingled with cyclists to see the museum’s collection of vintage motorcycles and exhibits.

And before the motorcyclists departed, a picture for all the two-wheel enthusiasts was arranged.

“It was exciting to see the mix of them,” Gorman said. “You do really have a lot in common. I had one guy comment from RAGBRAI who said, ‘I want to see what the guys with motors ride.’”

Between the motorcyclists visiting and RAGBRAI, the museum was seeing above-average traffic, Gorman said. By 2:00 p.m., a total 250 people had visited the museum, with more streaming in each minute.

On a normal weekday, less than 100 people usually visit, Gorman said. The museum will remain open until 8 p.m. tonight with a $5 admission price for all RAGBRAI riders.

Ahead of RAGBRAI’s arrival, the museum dusted off its collection of 60 bicycles and pulled a video out of its collection to show, Gorman said.

The collection of bikes drew Marshalltown rider Jim Fuller, 54, and his wife, Rose, 56. Coming off the route from the day, the museum offered some local entertainment for the pair, both of whom admit they know little about motorcycles.

But when on the ride, there’s opportunity to see new sites in each town, Jim Fuller said.

“We’re not real good at making plans,” he said. “We just kind of go with the flow.”

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