EXPERIENCE HISTORY AT WILD ONES: VINTAGE MOTORCYCLE RALLY

In 1947, events at the Hollister motorcycle rally gained national attention and ultimately inspired the 1953 film The Wild One starring Marlon Brando. That period forever impacted the perception of motorcycling in America. It overshadowed the early history of adventure, competition, and fraternity that bonded riders and beguiled spectators onto the sidelines at motorcycle events.

But Wild Ones brings that time back to the Harley-Davidson Museum each summer.

Part of the fun of motorcycle club meets was seeing everyone in their riding gear or club uniforms, checking out the latest motorcycle models, getting customization inspiration, and marveling over the oldies that were still revving up. Step back in time and feel like you're part of a 1940s motorcycle club event while wandering a stunning gathering of vintage bikes. Some are lovingly restored, others vibrantly customized, and a few as original as they get—but all proudly represent their age.

Harley-Davidson^® Knucklehead, Sidevalve, Panhead, and Shovelhead engines abound–but all American-Made pre-1970 motorcycles can register on-site to ride-in and show off.

The ride-in show is hosted by the Knucklehead Company, a group of enthusiastic fans of Harley-Davidson^® overhead valve motorcycles (i.e. Knuckleheads) produced between 1936 and 1947. Founded in 1977 in Wisconsin Rapids, membership in the club requires the ownership of a running bike from that era. The group aims to perpetuate the spirit of motorcycle club camaraderie that flourished in the 1940's. The Company operates under the mantra: "Ride 'em! Don't hide 'em!"

Motorcycle events—often called a rally or gypsy tour—were a fun way to bring together multiple motorcycle clubs as well as individual riders and friends. Hosted by a club or a motorcycle dealer, they frequently featured events like a picnic, hill climb, or field games.

Visit the Harley-Davidson Museum^® campus during Wild Ones on Saturday, June 20, 2026 to cheer for riders on antique motorcycles as they navigate many of these classic vintage challenges. Or, bring your ride and compete yourself!

2026 marks the 90th Anniversary of the Harley-Davidson Knucklehead Engine! Step back in time and celebrate Harley-Davidson’s legendary motorcycle heritage with a vintage motorcycle rally at the H-D Museum! Enjoy live music by Phoenix Kristan & HOSTS, delicious food, refreshing beverages, and a day full of classic motorcycles and community spirit.

Don’t miss this celebration of history, bikes, and giving back!

Event Schedule:
10 AM – Ride-In Knucklehead Company Vintage Bike Show Registration Opens
10 AM – Knucklehead 90th Anniversary RIDE Landing
10 AM – H-D Museum Opens + Make-A-Wish Raffles
11 AM – MOTOR^® Restaurant Opens
11:30 AM – Live Music by Phoenix Kristan
12 PM - Live Music by HOSTS
1 PM – Stoopid Chopper Show Kickstart Competition
1:30 PM – Live Music by Phoenix Kristan (set 2)
2 PM - Live Music by HOSTS (set 2)
3 PM – Bike Show Awards

ALL PROCEEDS from the 2026 Wild Ones: Vintage Motorcycle Rally benefit AMARA (through Make-A-Wish^® Wisconsin)

*Amara is a 6-year-old from Milwaukee who’s living with a blood disorder. She enjoys playing with water toys, going on the swings at the park, watching TV, roller-skating, playing with kitchen toys, playing with her sister and eating macaroni and chocolate cake. She wishes to go to Peppa Pig World and Walt Disney World® Resort.

Powered by: H-D^® Insurance, Rockford Fosgate^® Legendary Motorcycle Audio, Twisted Tea® Hard Iced Tea, Michelin^® Motorcycle Tires and Wisconsin Lottery^®

For more info on the Wild Ones Vintage Motorcycle Rally visit the events page on the H-D Museum website.