Saturday, March 17, 2012 will mark the 71st running of the Daytona 200 – the signature motorcycle race of Daytona Bike Week. The very first Daytona 200 was held on January 24, 1937 on the sand at Daytona Beach and, except for a hiatus during World War II to conserve fuel and tires, the race has been a part of Daytona Bike Week since.
In 1961 races moved from the sand to the brand new Daytona International Speedway. Motorcycle racing continues to be held at the Speedway today. The Speedway is also home to the NASCAR Daytona 500. This year the 500 is being held on February 26 and, for that reason, the first weekend for Bike Week was pushed back a week and into March. This later start to Bike Week is likely to continue in the future.
Although many bikers come to Bike Week with partying and cruising in mind, racing still plays an active role in Bike Week.
Racing at the Daytona Speedway during Bike Week:
- On Saturday, March 10 at 7:00 p.m., the Honda sponsored Daytona Supercross will showcase the world’s top riders as they navigate a tough and challenging course. Tickets prices start at $10.
- On Thursday and Friday, March 15-16 at 7:00 p.m., the AMA Pro Flat Track races will be held on a quarter-mile lime rock track in the West Lot located outside turns 1 and 2. This is a great event for families – tickets for adults start at just $20 for both days and kids 12 and under get in free in the general admission area.
- Saturday, March 17 at 1:30 p.m. the racers will take on the Daytona 200 on a demanding 2.9 mile course with 12 turns designed for knee-dragging. This event is also an AMA race with the world’s top competitors in road racing participating. Ticket prices start at $30 for unreserved grandstand seating.
If you are looking for something of substance while at Daytona Bike Week, one of these races should fit the bill.
- Daytona International Speedway
- 1801 W. International Speedway Blvd.
- Daytona Beach, FL
- 386-254-2700 or (800) PITSHOP
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