That was the St. Petersburg Harley Days 2017
Crazy, the Harley-Davidson meeting in Eastern Europe is one of the most beautiful and spectacular ever, visitors come from over 50 countries to the western Russian metropolis of millions. Unfortunately the weather wasn't quite as good this year, but luckily the temperatures cooperated so it wasn't quite as bad.
According to the organizers, there were around 3,000 Harleys in the parade. It felt like this number was an understatement, despite the rain, very few people missed the opportunity to take part in the parade.
We started on the Palace Square where the Alexander Column stands, directly in front of the Hermitage, or more precisely in front of the Tsar's Winter Palace. This unique setting and architecture cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Surrounded by radio and television crews, the machines were admired; one is always surprised at how modern the city is. The roads are getting better every year, some of the traffic lights are already equipped with LEDs and display the time. There are also a lot of Harley-Davidson motorcycles to see here, the big conversions like Rick's are less to see, but the Harleys are all very well maintained and in top condition. The few custom bikes are still very good and rather atypical conversions, some have strange airbrush paintwork and most of them have a good sound anyway.
The highlight is the parade past the palaces of the UNESCO World Heritage city
Shortly after there was a heavy rain shower, the parade started, at times four abreast went through the city center and along the boulevards of St. Petersburg.
This is an unforgettable moment, people are standing on the left and right on the streets and this view along the street to the front, where the next sight is already reflecting the first rays of sunshine after the rain. The parade ended on the festival grounds, where visitors were already waiting for the Harleys. The venue is in the middle of the city, so lots of onlookers come to look at the great machines. The event is very well organized, everything is clean and safe. No drunks wandering around the premises, as alcohol is not served here. This is only available in the restaurants or in an exclusive tent provided by the organizer.
A good music program is presented on two stages, there was plenty of entertainment, stunt shows, a bike show and after the event there was an after-show party where Ken Hensley, known from Uriah Heep, gave his best.
The conclusion of 2017: Even more stands than 2016, another great parade, great event area and very hospitable Russians. The roads are now better than ours and like last year, it was over far too quickly.
Unfortunately there was a bit too much rain this year, but even the bad weather can't dispel this magnificent city!
It's worth the trip!
Further information can also be found at: www.greatestrides.de
