Daytona Bike Week has a serious problem!

[@Bucci13]

As a retired cop I agree with you. We used to refer to that type of shit as rookie-itus. Kid has power for the first time in their life and no clue that there is responsibility that goes with it. It's SERVE and PROTECT, not FUCK and HARASS.

[@davegilbert1866]

That's why I stay away,daytona cops are on a power trip.

[@ghostrider564]

Hi Robert I'm in Australia and they do the same thing here. Yes sometimes its a newby etc as you have stated. I agree with Monkey in the country areas in Australia most of the time they are understanding its just seems to be the cities. Stay save and well and enjoy your riding

[@btoso32]

just normal power tripping from the pd, thinking they can stomp a persons rights, when in fact they cant.

[@tylerthrash3155]

Same way at Put-in-bay here in Ohio Rookies every year.

[@joseaacosta1156]

I ride with law enforcement from every agency and the military, there is always good and bad people everywhere. That's true about your comment ,we had in the Coast Guard, kids with a gun and a badge think their a god or something and get power hungry. Ride safe.

[@vccleveland1]

Let me start by saying I agree 100% with your comments on Daytona. The slingshot problem, the rev bumping nonsense, and everything else you mentioned. And, as a 19 year law enforcement veteran, I agree with your description of Daytona police. The way they treat people on bikes is not appropriate or necessary. Their job should be to stop DUI's, for their safety and other riders safety, stop the jack offs that want to fight or intimidate everyone, and control the ass hats that want to stunt ride in traffic. Unfortunately, that isn't the case and without intervention from the command staff it won't change. Even as a cop I don't condone or support their ridiculous behavior. With all of that being said, the one and only thing that you were wrong about was your encounter with the cop. Was he a d-bag for harassing you? Yes. Was it illegal? No. If he had demanded your license, that would have been a violation. But, with you sitting on the side of the road, he was legally allowed to make what is known as a "casual encounter". Had he demanded ID, then it would have been an illegal stop, and you could have refused to give it to him and been 100% good to go. Don't get me wrong, he shouldn't have bothered you and it was a douche thing to do, but not illegal. Anyway, love your channel and your content. From a fellow fat, bald bearded guy.

[@mrmatt7210]

For what it's worth, I've found Daytona isn't the most friendly area even when bike week and nascar's not taking place. PS the officer wasnt checking your bike for a headlight and front brake. The officer was engaging you verbally to see if he could determine any sort of "RAS" (reasonable articulable suspicion) to detain or arrest you. ( re: smell of alcohol, impaired etc)

[@backforty4276]

That’s exactly the point. There may be a hundred other more blatant and serious violations of the “law” happening while this cop screws with someone parked on the shoulder of the road !.

[@Oldnumber66]

RAS. So on point.

[@Zzus321]

Daytona is in Volusia Co. The state of Florida has strange laws that do not allow Daytona/Volusia to keep the Tax revenues of the events but they have to pay police from allover Florida for security. So the people pay higher taxes to supply more police. That's why most don't want the Event

[@ares7869]

I'm a retired Police Officer and I agree with you, Leave People alone if they are not breaking the law or a danger to themselves or others.

[@shameless6963]

The traffic you mentioned is exactly why I NEVER go to rallies. I drive for a living and do everything in my power to avoid traffic jams. I ain't spending my vacation in one. I also really ain't a people person neither, so I hate crowds. Sounds like you had a WONDERFUL time. Congrats on the award. At least it wasn't a leg lamp 😅

[@tomneedmorebeer5525]

Wait, did I write this?!? It sounds just like me 😂

[@CraigSmith568]

Was going to comment the same thing.

[@DavidB-tq4go]

Traffic is a problem in certain areas, depending on the time. Other than a little at Cackleberry it wasn’t bad.

[@steve-vk6np]

You speak for a lot of people. I feel the same.

[@hitituprohb]

I knew my spirit animal was shameless.

[@ecrusch]

I had 32 years on the job. Retired in 2010, and it really pisses me off when these goofs make us "real cops" look bad. Believe it or not, your job is to "help" people, not screw with them. OK, that's enough of that. Congratulations on your win for the chopper. Well deserved brother. Eric in Kissimmee.

[@Big88Country]

Appreciate your service to the community!! It seems as though good officers are becoming rare! I think that is what the liberals are shooting for with their "Defund the Police B.S." Good cops won't put up with the lunacy and go do something else. I don't even want to imagine the BS you guys put up with daily!! I am %110 pro cop, you good guys do make a huge difference!!

[@Jaycat48]

Being a police officer in a past life, I totally agree with you. I have never been to Daytona, but I have been to Sturgis. The police there are pretty damn good. Police are there for public safety not to be picky twits.

[@letters2elliott461]

Also it's so rare to see police anywhere but on foot patrol in the major hubs (Hill, Deadwood, Sturgis). They aren't hiding behind trees on Spearfish Canyonroad or doing roadside breathalyzers on Iron Mountain road. Nice, low-key presence, Done respectfully

[@slugamer]

In my time as a law enforcement supervisor, I found the hardest thing to do was teach a rookie that his job was to keep people safe, NOT to mess with or harass anyone. If someone isn't hurting someone or doing something that will eminently hurt someone, it is the officer's job to F'N CHILL and let folks have a good time. Most folks will self-regulate and damnit you gotta cut people some slack for minor bullshit. I can't remember which officer in my town wrote the most tickets or made the most arrests last year, but I CAN tell you which officer the community says, "I like that guy. He does what he has to do but doesn't f*#k with people." THAT guy is the one I like to have on my team.

[@beozzie690]

This is the reason I avoid Daytona.. They go out of their way to mess with everyone, and as much money flows into that city during the rally is enormous. Money talks.. You’re spot on, everyone should flood them with complaints and or move the rally to someplace else.

[@MrDynafxdc]

You're right! They like your money, but they don't like you. And with all the yankees moving there from their shitholes up north its only going to get worse. Never been to Daytona, but the worst drivers we have seen in Florida are located in Ocala, and Naples

[@TheBDD1970]

I suspect that given the boom in Florida, that Bike Week will eventually get moved.....

[@stevem5383]

Some fifteen or twenty years ago the City Council of Daytona set out to reinvent Daytona on the model of West Palm Beach. They wanted to change Daytona from a working class town to a wealthy town. The city began trying to squeeze Bike Week out. They started limiting vendors in many ways, increased law enforcement pressure on bikers, clamped down on nudity and implemented ordnances to further squeeze it out. It still exists but it's a far cry from what it was in the 80's and 90's.

[@jasonallen6406]

Maybe they should address the meth problem that exists there year round if they want to beco m e a wealthier city. I'd be oerfectly fine with the entire rally taking place in ormond beach.

[@allendolly1098]

True

[@craigsaimes4063]

It is why Rossmeyers (now Teddy Morse HD) moved out past ormond. Because of Daytona restrictions

[@McgSpook]

this. this is 100% the case. they dont want bike week. so they make it a pain so people will go somewhere else.

[@captainlandyacht1328]

Nail on the head. Lived in Orlando from 01 to 05 and started seeing the change in Daytona. I remember hearing that the police were instructed to be "extra vigilant" to raise money and make folks not want to return.

[@eddieb.4734]

As one who has just retired, after 31 years of mostly patrol related enforcement, I wholeheartedly agree with you. Sturgis has it right. Apparently, Daytona police have a chip on their shoulder. That kind of sh**** enforcement is what gives the rest of the police a bad name. On behalf of all current and former police, my apologies for the unnecessary treatment.

[@Henle15]

Yep it’s the difference between police in the South and big city vs small midwestern town. Much nicer people in the Midwest or rural places.

[@larry648]

I was LE for a few years, than retired from FD as a Chief, 1 Jan 19. Also after 31 years. So, I road out to Sturgis during COVID in 2020. I had a place to stay, I have a buddy out there that’s a probation officer. Had a great time. LE had it down. They were cool if you were cool. And most of them are out of town or out of state they deputize just for the rally.

[@TheDavearvelo]

I am retired PD , I believe this form of harassment is coming from the higher ups . Those officer were probably given marching orders to inspect & harass all bikers . I’ve been to Sturgis and enjoyed every moment while I was there , the following year I went to Daytona both were my first time and I tell you Daytona did not impress me at all . I personally don’t think I’ll ever go back to Daytona .

[@chrisherman7531]

You're absolutely right. They need to be there to HELP not mess with riders. If they see a law being broken that's a hazard to people then fine...but picking out the slightest infraction is just harassment and a money grab.

[@cesarrivera8750]

It happens to me last year exactly the same. For the glasses and I pulled them into my chest to clean my sweat from the forehead and the light was red and he said that I need to have my glasses at all time. I told them that I was stop at the light and he said he dont care. I drove from houston all the way to Daytona to have fun and I end up getting a ticket and leaving a day early because how pissed I was.

[@wilburnbridges3141]

This was my first trip to Daytona Bike Week. We rode from west Tennessee to Daytona and enjoyed every mile until we hit Daytona city limits and law enforcement was like ants on a hill. It made us very nervous even though we were completely legal and did not drink anything

[@tdl92772]

I realize it is a drive, but The Lonestar Rally in Galveston, TX is still a ton of fun without the harassment. Takes place right around Halloween every year, you should check it out.

[@randybarrett6677]

I have thirty years law enforcement training, I never stopped bikes unless they were being dangerous. I stopped one bike one day, just to look at his bike and talk to him about it. When I walked up to him , he said “what did I do” and I told him “ you didn’t do anything, if you need to be somewhere you can go, I just saw your bike and wanted to talk to you about your bike” and we stood there talking for a while, and I told him just be safe and have fun. Law Enforcement doesn’t have to be assholes, they choose to be assholes. That is why I got out of it.

[@bobf4765]

I agree with the biker. I ride old iron, 67 FLH, sunny Sundays bring out the local law & bikes. They check for loud pipes, license & registrations, no big deal. I will agree that my lic & reg have been more up to date these last 40 years... But I get stopped regularly.... just to talk. Ok, I get it, the bike is old & 98% original, but I did not come out riding to talk. I came to ride.... The guys are not a-holes, but they want to talk & I want to ride... Also, most do not say they just want to discuss the bike... Ride safe, shiny side up!

[@HootmonHarry]

You are absolutely correct in your pointing out this problem! This was a few years back, someone I know from out of state at Daytona.. He pulls in, pays to park, starts backing his bike into a spot, and another biker walks up to him and says, "You don't want to park here". He asked why.. See that cop over there leaning against the wall, as soon as you leave, he is going to give you a ticket for your vertical plate! (Which had, at the time, just been made illegal in Florida). So, officer Ah Gotcha, is hanging out in a parking lot, just to hand out situations (yeah, he us going to save a lot of lives like this!) 1) He is just harassing out of state tourists (something that Daytona and Florida depend on and actively pays money to attract). 2) IF a vertical license plate is legal in your state, and you go to another state (Florida), do they really need to ticket you (this is just a "D1(€" move to me).. This officer is being paid by tax payers to encourage people NOT to come to our state to pay taxes while here yo pay this officer!

[@brianheffernan8982]

Great video, PM. Police officers do themselves and their department's disservice when they behave like that. This is why so many people have a negative view of the police in this country.

[@JRotten]

Heavy handed cops are why I stopped going to "trailer week" years ago. And the police at Sturgis are megga cool. A few years ago, I was getting a tad drunk early. A officer seen me, came over and asked me how I was doing. Suggested I pace myself for the day. Then, out of no where made me a deal.... pour that half of a warm beer out, and he'd buy me a much more needed cup of coffee. Damn best cup of coffee I've ever had. That guy had my back, and was looking out for me. Not to bust my balls like Daytona PD does annually.

[@Johnitzme]

Fellow Floridian here, i haven’t been to Daytona in over a decade (not motorcycle related) and last i went they were doing the same thing. It’s like the PD doesn’t want people to enjoy themselves there. Lucky for me, I’m a Floridian! So plenty of other beaches to go to, don’t need the harassment

[@jaredcarr7693]

Agreed, law enforcement makes all the difference and also sadly last few rallies I've been too are flooded with people blaring ridiculously loud music on baggers with speakers bolted all over them. Maybe I just don't get it - but it's enough for me not to go back.

[@aceofspades9785]

It’s ridiculous…plus the “music” they’re playing is awful!!!

[@kidd5280]

I agree completely. I live in Chillicothe, Ohio former home of the Easyrider national rodeo. Thanks to the Sheriff's department here in Ross County they have moved to a new location. That event was held here for over multiple decades, bringing alot of money into our little town.

[@scottpraytor157]

Man I loved the Rodeo when I lived there! Shame it’s no longer there.

[@PatrickBuckley-ol2ok]

Chillicothe is crazy if your not a Harley Guy you really aren't welcome witch is why i don't bother to go.

[@dennythomas8887]

I went to Daytona for the first and LAST time in 2010. Never again just because of all the shady crap I saw the cops pull. One of the guys I rode down there with got a "modified exhaust" ticket while we were sitting in traffic on main street feet down at idle. We weren't pulling rev's or goofing off just sitting there waiting our turn to creep the next 10 feet forward. At that time he either had a ultra classic or a limited (can't remember which) completely stock except for slip-on's. His bike was no louder than any of the other 1000's on the street that day. Anyway this cops steps off the curb, stands in front of him and points to the curb. (just like you described) He pulls over and the cop proceeds to do a full roadside safety and paperwork inspection. (Not being my first rodeo I kept going) the cop checked everything including tire wear. That was day 3 of a 7 day trip but after that we were both a little more than pissed off so we went and broke camp packed up and headed home. We both live on the Alabama side of the Fla/Ala state line on the coast and absolutely love riding in Florida. In fact we still attend Thunder Beach in Panama city every year and the cops there are way more like the cops in Sturgis. (don't be a douche and you'll have no problems)

[@ericfarmer6892]

As a resident of Daytona Beach, I can say that I love the rallies but there are a lot of residents that don’t. I appreciate the money it brings into town which helps us recover from crap like the hurricanes! Some residents hate everything about the tourists and I say that’s ridiculous because our town is built on Harley Davidsons and NASCAR!

[@tommypadron4217]

I'm a cop (22 years) near Shitcago and totally agree with you! An important clarification that should be made is police officers do what they're told by their bosses and these types of directives ultimately come from The Mayor's Office. Although some cops are dicks (or cool as hell) your example sounds systemic so it should be addressed at that level.

[@3percentermafia]

Totally agree. This shit sounds like it's coming from up on high. Maybe it's time to change sites (probably will never happen) and move to a place that appreciates the money that these rallies bring in.

[@feellnfroggy]

Local police yes. That’s why I feel it’s better to work for sheriff than police. One leader is voted in, the other is bought.

[@CHOPRJOHN]

Even though I lived in upstate NY, I went to Daytona every chance I got, since the late 60s, now that I live in Florida, I don't go anymore. Everything you said is 100 % kee rect! The a lot of the locals haven't wanted Bike Week for decades, Police harassment has always been a ongoing problem, as far back as the late 60s. Sometime in the middle 80s the merchants actually got together to make the cops back, but that didn't last to long....go figure....lol.

[@johnroberts9432]

You are absolutely right about the rally this year, it just seemed worse. Being a police officer for 25 years it makes our profession look like clowns when things like this happen. Leesburg is the best rally in Florida (we met last year at Windy Acres me and my wife had the very large living quarters horse trailer a couple rows from your spot) because it seems like people appreciate you being there to enjoy their area. Gonna do Sturgis this year so I hope all I have heard about it is true!

[@SheriffGuyBuck]

As an active Law Enforcement Officer and multiple Daytona attendee, I agree, especially on Main Street. I was pulled over for raising my modular helmet, at a red light, while stopped, on an Indian Challenger with full windshield.

[@ThePapagonza]

100% brother. I'm an OG and I'll leave it at that but haven't been to Daytona in years. What you said I learned a few years back and it's only gotten worse. I love Leesburg and a couple of the smaller rallies as well. If I ever go to Daytona again, it will be a turn and burn from Lakeland and probably not even that. By the way, I grew up an LEO's son and Daytona PD is just plain stupid! Having a beard in a Police officers uniform does NOT make you cool either.

[@letters2elliott461]

I love your content! After you approximated Sturgis Rally being about 200sq miles I went to google earth. Sticking to the major roads and avoiding unnecessary area you can't ride, Devils Tower to Spearfish, Lead, Hill, Custer and the park, up to Keystone and Rapid, out to Badlands and Wall, back to Sturgis and then to The Chip and up to FTS and over to Belle and Hulett, the area is a shocking 2946 miles squared. That's why you can't do it all in one trip! Just thought I'd share my nonsense

[@111Glenn]

Right on....Sturgis is the SHITS ! Hot as hell last year...did the 1st annual year Chief of Police ride. Spent time with him....great planned ride and really nice guy!

[@Redeyereaper8]

Agree with you 100%....if they are screwing with people just to be idiots then they are not watching for the true offenders.

[@starving030]

I'm from the Daytona area and it has gotten more and more run down in the last 25yrs. The beach, boardwalk, spring break, bike week, etc. have all gone to crap. It used to be amazingly fun and full of nice folks but all of the good people left. I used to miss Daytona but not much anymore. Haven't been back in years.

[@DannyWalker247]

You just got old!

[@aceofspades9785]

I was there this year…was not impressed…it’s gone downhill

[@1012kwats]

Your comment about the rev limiter crowd was spot on. Nothing about that habit makes any sense to me (an old biker), but neither do open pipes. Of course that is gonna rile up a lot of folks who make claims that "Loud Pipes save Lives". Having been a certified MSF instructor and having taught many people how to operate a bike, I will contend that awareness will save many more lives than open pipes ever will. If anyone decides to run open pipes and your municipality allows it, then go ahead. As I have gotten older, my lack of tolerance has become more pronounced. As a result, I quit doing rallies and even benefit runs because of the attitudes of the young wannabes and the reborn rubs. The last run I was on was a benefit that I believe in and I was in the pack between several crotch rockets but behind a few open pipe big twins who were having a big "Look at me" contest. The fact that I was still moving and the tach were the only pieces of evidence that my bike (an Ultra) was still running. So, my days of rallies are over but my days of riding aren't.

[@TheBDD1970]

Yes sir. The same cagers that pull out in front of you are on their cell phones or just plain not paying attention regardless of your pipes. I like em to sound good too but loud isnt the same as sounding good. A car example is a stock truck with 4 inch exhaust vs a mild cammed engine with a 2.5 inch exhaust....the latter sounds tough while the former sounds like youre an 18year old ijit.

[@elliott9139]

Love my straight pipes. They HEAR me coming from a ways away. Probably a good quarter mile.. I don't care what anyone says, anyone. Loud pipes saved my life several times. So I don't give a if people believe it or not. I know it..and I'm still here to tell ya. I'll keep my straight pipes even if I have to pay for the ticket. Which I've never gotten.

[@duncanskeet3167]

Loud pipes are fine if you don't do long distances, all day riding/touring with the noise gets very tiring.

[@joefigueroa646]

i think you're ABSOLUTELY RIGHT, some cops just enjoy harassing riders. it's not just in Daytona it also happens in Ocean City and Myrtle Beach!! i was at Daytona last year and i didn't get stopped once which was SERPRIZING TO ME!!!!! i've never been to Sturgis but i look forward to going one year. Maybe next year.

[@vernmoore7710]

Here! Here! about the MD cops. Ride down from PA and you get stopped at the state line for a helmet check. Ride solo or in a group, they'll stop every bike they see to look for DOT stickers. And not just to check for the DOT sticker on the outside. They make you pull it off to look at the sticker on the inside.

[@brucesantacory1390]

i've been to and or worked most of the Rallies, and i agree, not a huge fan of Spring Daytona, the last time i was there i was working at Bruce Rothmeyers helping out from my dealership in SC as a service advisor. Now Fall Daytona i liked alot, not as nuts. Myrtle Beach i like too, but it like Daytona has the same issue TRAFFIC !! Sturgis is a great Rally, but the 3-4 days it takes to get there from Maine keeps me from going, and i Grew up in Rapid City so been there done that, for me, in my mid 60's on a 15 year old Road King, i like LACONIA the Best. 1st it's close to home, bout a 50 min ride, my wife's Cousin owns one of the main hang-outs Tower Hill Tavern. and NH is to me the East Coast Sturgis and better, you get out of the Weirs Beach area and the White Mountains of NH are every bit as good as the Black hills with rides up Mt Washington, and All the Different Notches , then an Hour away from the NH and Maine Coast some seriously beautiful riding there as well, then you have the New Hampshire International Speedway and all that is going on there, thats a nice 30 min ride from the weirs and we have all the campgrounds and parties and clubs that stay open till the wee hours. As to Cops, yaaa Found the Daytona cops to be Dicks, and Sturgis was much more layed back as long as your not being a jerk, Now Laconia has had a Reputation for DICK COPS, but as the years go by they seem to be a little more chilled, but there are little problem area's like roller coaster road, if your speeding on that you're getting a ticket. best story of the older days of Laconia in NH Women going topless is legal, EXCEPT in towns with an ordinance against it.....Laconia no boobies, Well when they started cracking down the girls got smart and went out on the lake on boats and would flash tits as the passed by the beach and under the bridge in the canal , one year the dick cops closed the beach to kill the crowd of titty watchers, it was a year it was 120 on the pavement and super crowed and the dumb ass cops added another 10000 people to lakeshore drive by closing the beach, Now a days the parties and nudity happen at the campgounds and night clubs or down at the Ocean Hampton Beach has a Free the Nipple Day Every year around bike week LOL !!!!

[@Frostytravels]

I so agree with you on the problems in Daytona. Did not even go this year, however I did go to Leesburg....awesome there. Yep the traffic is a royal pain. Did see some police presence in Leesburg and they were super nice.

[@metter2009]

I attended 1999 thru 2003. Both rally’s ( Biketoberfest as well ) . I never witnessed this type of harassment. It sounds like things have dramatically changed for the worse. The Milwaukee police have treated people with respect on all the big Anniversary years, Sturgis police are fair as well. Very well said, maybe somebody will get the message in Daytona.

[@paulhall8027]

It changed around 2008 when they moved everything down around Destination Daytona. It’s been going downhill ever since.

[@davidclegg4718]

That kind of police behavior is encouraged from the top down. If it were just a few officers like that, it would be a different story. They've got their marching orders from the command staff of the department. Change needs to start at the top and maybe even with the mayor and city council.

[@joshd15]

Absolutely correct! The command staff needs to go!

[@danbarrette9888]

That’s why I became a firefighter, people love us.

[@poiryra]

I've been going to both Daytona and Sturgis for quite a few years and have never had a LEO stop me for anything, but I have seen what people are getting stopped for and you are totally correct on both Scenarios. Daytona PD seem to do just that. Good observation of both Rallies!

[@SamuelKilham]

I've never been to Daytona but I've heard the cops are horrendous down there. I agree with you that their job is to keep us safe and make sure we get home safe. I go to Laconia Bike Week all the time (an hour away) and the cops let most things go unless you're doing something wicked stupid. You're not the first one I've heard complain about the policing.

[@MikeSmith-ey7ku]

I’ve been to Laconia several times and loved it. In Daytona guys ride the Mech bull(weird as hell) and I saw women get tackled by cops for flashing a tit

[@terrytheriault2528]

Laconia has changed in 30 years

[@MKandKCCampbell]

You are right about Daytona law. Better up in Ormond.

[@andrewlufi7659]

My boss had a similar issue in Sturgis that your friend had in Dayton. Started the same way, glasses on the forehead, walking the bike. He was told to pull over and by the time they let him go he had a $1100.00 + ticket and said he would probably never go back. He later found out that the officer who wrote him was from out of state.

[@DizzyRC]

I went to Daytona Bike Week 1992, 93-94. 92 cops are cool and laid-back, probably too laid-back. 93 and 94 were completely different story. They were harassing everyone, by the end of Bike Week 1994 I knew I was never going back to another Daytona Bike Week. Back then I was on crotch rockets. Took a Hiatus from motorcycles from 97 to 2008. 2010 my wife and I both are on Harleys and she is interested in going to Daytona Bike Week. We talked to some locals when they returned from the 2010 Daytona Bike Week to find not much has changed, cops still were harassing people. I talked with people who were ticketed for handlebars higher than 13 in, tag turned sideways, no baffles in the pipes. No way I'm spending my hard-earned money to go to another town and be harassed by the cops. they can keep their bike week.

[@bobolin3607]

Thanks for the heads up, looking to move back to the area and was looking forward to Daytona bike week. Sounds like a clusterfuck and will steer clear

[@JoeGoeMotorcycleAdventures]

I can agree, the traffic is terrible! Sorry to hear about your situation. I never experienced problems with the police out there, but I've heard many stories. Great topic

[@jmm3549]

I agree with you on the harassment at Daytona. I think Sturgis is much different in that the harassment you get in Sturgis is usually deserved. Except for the miniature Cowboy security guards at the Chip. They have gotten out of control and will likely get themselves in trouble (hurt). This is my last year going to Daytona. It actually feels more like a glorified bike night.

[@Henry.58]

I live here now, except for 1 trip to Destination Dayton to try and meet Monkey ,I never left my little Gated Community ! Why even bother, It was a circus. I went to Main St. last year when we came down from Ohio, and that was enough for me.

[@theprodigalstranger5259]

I went to college in Daytona, its a small city with far too many tourists every year. The resident populace is a weird mix of old people and college kids. Which, at various times, swells buy 4 to 5 times the norm with spring breakers, race enthusiasts, or bikers. The rozzers do not know how to deal with this so they default to authoritarian DICtatorship.

[@WildRider]

I heard the horror stories of Daytona. The cops are out to get you. They are like angry control freaks, just trying to intimated people and make as much revenue for the city or themselves as possible. I agree with you on Slingshots those aren't bikes they are three wheel cars.

[@willgallatin2802]

What you describe is why I haven't gone to Daytona in over a decade. I lived just north of West Palm, so it was an easy morning ride up I95. Never again man. The traffic was not any worse than WPB at rush hour, but law enforcement was another matter.

[@garyallen6486]

So unfortunate Monk. They really are putting pressure on from all sides to (I guess) deter bikers from coming to rally there. My guess is- they see us all as riffraff. Hard to believe given the money the city brings in from the event. Leesburg, you say. Will totally have to check that out!

[@mojostephen]

Hi! I live in Leesburg; Snowbird since '09, full timer since '19. I've just started riding again after an accident (car pulled out in front of me) in '81. Anyway, the Leesburg rally is great! Not too big, but lots of fun. Headlining bands have included Blackberry Smoke, Vince Neil, Scott Stapp, and Hoobastank. Bikers are welcomed everywhere. Open containers are allowed on Main Street. The police are there, but only to ensure safety, NOT to harass! Plan to attend!

[@jacobwiese1179]

As a 14 year Police Officer and also Motorcycle enthusiast I agree with you. I live to far west to make the trip to Daytona but that in my opinion was uncalled for and totally unprofessional. I agree we are here to serve and protect and educate people. Not be bags who got picked on in high school. lol

[@scottryan492]

I agree with everything you are saying. It has gotten bad since I started going to Daytona years ago. It is getting to the point where I'm thinking about not going anymore and so are the big crew I roll with. Sad

[@superduty131]

I have gone every year since 1976. Quite going the year of the Pandemic and have no plans of returning. Have witnessed the police and their actions. Leesburg is cool.

[@scottryan492]

​@@superduty131 agreed. I really want to do Leesburg someday. I've heard it's a good event

[@NMRay_Tesa]

Thank you for staying REAL! My favorite youtuber. All the others change so much when they get a number of followers and its horrible! Love the content!!!

[@richdudley257]

Great video, as usual Brother. Actually you are 100% correct. According to SCotUS ruling in Castle Rock v. Gonzales, No. 04-278, police do NOT have the duty to protect anyone! Their JOB, as you pointed out is to resolve issues and enforce LAWS!

[@zultanfiziqs]

The sheriff in Sturgis is the reason everything is so awesome with the police there. He does an amazing job making it clear that we are there for a good time and expect to be left alone unless we need some straightening out.

[@philsprague]

The exact same thing happened to my buddy. We were stuck in traffic and he was stopped and pushed his glasses up to wipe the sweat off his face. traffic moved about 1 car length and he didn't have time to pull his glasses down. There were 2 Daytona cops standing there who waved him out of line and gave him a ticket for "NO EYE PROTECTION". I kid you not. Now understand I was a part time officer for a number of years in a town in Pa. My son is a Sargent on a large Metro Police force, so it's not like we don't respect the cops and the jobs they do, but that was just pure B.S. It was also the last time we went to Daytona. We started going to Myrtle Beach after that. The people, businesses, and the Police are great. .

[@Petesmotoadventure]

I’ve been going to Daytona off and on for years being a Floridian. It has changed a lot over the years. Law enforcement there has also changed. They used to turn a blind eye to some things. Plus they also bring in out of county LEOS. You are not wrong about them checking things. Remember this as well the Daytona area is a constant flow of events. January starts 24 hour of Daytona, then NASCAR, Bike Week, then spring break. Sturgis is once a year, a lot easier to tolerate if you are a local. I am like you I avoid Main St anymore. The Slingshots need to be band lol. Leesburg and my part of North Central FL has the best riding in FL makes it a better event just for that.

[@grfulgarcia]

Saw a bunch of videos showing this harassment... freaking ridiculous seems like they don't want in there town... good call on calling out the business owner they are make a fortune.

[@timwestern7116]

I would be willing to bet the cops that are screwing with riders that are just enjoying themselves are obviously not bike riders themselves.

[@craigapelbaum1629]

Police are supposed to behave properly. Set the proper example of behavior in public. And they are there to keep people safe and from doing something stupid. AND NOT WIND UP IN JAIL !!!!!!!!!!! Not to harass people. And not to patrol their phones either. Keep an eye on everything. And make sure nobody gets hurt or dies. And that's the bottom line.

[@nickpyle1411]

I’ve heard more about this at this years Daytona than any other rally… it’s insane🙄

[@steventwiddy3402]

I don’t always agree with you but you hit the nail right on the head with this topic, the powers to be need to talk to Myrtle beach and see how many millions of dollars they lost screwing with the rally

[@DavidB-tq4go]

Yep, those clowns screwed up MB but thankfully those a$$hats are gone thanks to a pro biker lawyer doing pro bono work for the rally. It was a BIG rally last spring. BIG!

[@TimRHillard]

''Stop you from dying and keep you outta jail'' should be on the side of every cop car in the nation. You could fix all these problems with that one attitude correction. Look, if it works on bikers, its gonna work on just about everybody else.

[@LightningFabrication]

Maybe Just Maybe it's due to this. 24 Hour Race January 28 - 29, Daytona 500 NASCAR Race February 19 Bike Week March 3 - 12, Atlantic Beach Bikefest March 10 - 12 Spring Break March 6 - 15, Spring Turkey Rod Run March 24 - 26, Biketoberfest - October 19 - 22 Fall Turkey Rod Run November 23 - 25. So maybe by the time bike week rolls around the cops, business owners and the residents patients are wearing a little thin. I've lived in Florida my whole life and we used to get a break from the snow birds but not any more. So it's year around busy.

[@peterferreira4959]

your 100% right! thank you for bringing it up, same thing happened to me but my sunglasses fell off while sitting in traffic and the cop watch them fall off and told me to pull off to the side it was 10Am and gave me a written warning. I think their just bored with big egos and dont ride bikes.

[@willpaul8914]

Totally agreed. I had none of my bikes in Daytona this year and I was very ok with that as none have signals, speedos, horns, front brakes, none of the wimpy stuff. And I watched cops harass several dudes seemingly over nothing. Definitely police were on overkill mode.

[@URBANAMERICANTAC]

There was a slingshot at Daytona this year, that had a Chevy LS v8 and 4 wheel conversion with there obviously being an extra wheel in the rear making it look like a normal car. That thing was damn cool looking. Other than that, I hate them lol.

[@kareng8551]

You’re right when you say they don’t want us there. Check out the plans for the daytona redevelopment plan. Including the plans for Main Street redevelopment. Most of the bars , except boothill, sold their properties this past year and are leasing them from the new owners until may. We’ll have to see what happens even for Biketoberfest.

[@ianrobertson9968]

I haven't been to Daytona since the mid 90's but it seems like things have not changed much. Four of us flew over from Scotland for bike week, first day there on Main Street we got pulled for Jaywalking ,of course we didn't even know what that was 😂.

[@joelandrade1630]

I hope the Daytona chief watches this. Personally I never went to Daytona due to my friends say cars should not be allowed to go down main street.

[@tonymarin2314]

I do enjoy your channel. I have been thinking about Daytona Bike Week for a while, a lot, but after your review and comments, I believe I will keep my old rear in NC but I am going to Key West and Homestead to see my nephew and his family for a few days. Happy trails big guy and stay cool who knows I may go to Sturgis this year. By the way congrats on your trophy.

[@buckmoody5939]

Main street years ago was okay but I agree it has changed and the locals used to support the rally but not anymore you are correct

[@DILLIGAF88]

Man I’ve dealt with so many cops like that in my home town the pigs had a boner for patch holders. As you said something needs to be done but not just in Daytona something needs to be done nationwide.

[@1MgySgt]

And, this is why I don't miss going to Daytona Bike Week.

[@zultanfiziqs]

Everybody refuse to go until they square the police away. I GUARANTEE you that they will change that real fast in the face of losing all that revenue! Much love Monkey. Glad you made it home safe. Congrats on the award winning Brown Sugar! She is a beauty.

[@loreng7433]

I'm a local in Daytona. All of this is true. Local PD will fuck with law abiding citizens for absolutely no reason. They often forget their position as Public Servants when dealing with the taxpaying Public. On a different note, I love Bike Week, but yes my commute to work and/or school becomes an absolute nightmare due to the visitors. It's an awesome to experience, but due to the volume of people it's miserable for locals. From what I gather, your time and money are much better spent at Sturgis or Leesburg. Daytona PD seems to be hellbent on harrasssing all visitors at all public events. I recommend spending your tourist money elsewhere. I'm moving as soon as possible.

[@quickshoe6]

Absolutely love watching your videos. You are one of the best channels. Much respect for the monkey family. Thank you for sharing

[@christophercummins4946]

I agree with you on the slingshots I don't call that a motorcycle and it's Bike Week not trike week

[@fountainhead5885]

Yup. I was Trooper for 26 years. I always gave people the benefit of the doubt. I made them talk their way into a ticket. Things have changed. This is bullshit. You aren’t wrong. The ultimate goal should be voluntary compliance not end of the month quotas or numbers hero’s.

[@maddog3080]

I got pulled over quite a few years ago by the regina city police with my bike on a trailer. He gave me verbal warnings for my straight pipes, blue dot tail light, and lack of turn signals. I turned around and went back to the chopper shop and installed baffles, and a new tail light lens. I was going to put turn signals on later in the month when I got paid. 3 days later I was out for a ride when I got pulled over BY THE SAME COP who gave me tickets for straight pipes and no signals, even though I had the baffles welded into the pipes. I was so pissed about the pipe ticket that I cut the baffles out when I got home and have been running straight pipes ever since

[@adarngoodjoe4043]

Your grievances would be better addressed to the local city/county government officials. None of the cops I know and work with enjoy enforcing "petty" violations like that. Based on my understanding of your stop or encounter, they sound perfectly legal, albeit petty (I'll spare the legal arguments). I suspect the reason enforcement is so letter of the law is because the local population does not want you (you being, rowdy clubs or motorcycle gangs, not necessarily you) disrupting their city. More than likely, they have complained to their local officials about all the traffic problems (hooligan stuff, noise pollution, complete disregard for normal everday traffic laws) as a result of the rally. As a result, the local government reaches out to the Sheriff or PD and ask them to step up enforcement. From that, you end up with this zero tolerance type enforcement all because historically, its been an issue. The unspoken thing may be that strict enforcement is done to discourage future events like moto rallys from coming back.

[@dougm5231]

They're doing it because the city of Daytona does not want the rally in their town. Myrtle Beach did the same thing and still doing it even though the rally isn't within city limits any longer, but the riders have to travel thru it to get to events on the north side and the south side.

[@vernmoore7710]

There's an interview with the Daytona mayor on KZbin where he's complaining that Bike Week leaves buildings on Main St empty most of the year and he wants year round businesses to bring in more money. Dumbass. If the building owners make enough during Bike Week and Biketoberfest to cover costs for the rest of the year, what can a year round business do? Daytona will probably run the bikers away and get a subsidized, money-losing casino that brings in 1/2 as many people and less than half the money. And they might get what they deserve when local taxes go thru the roof to pay for their stupidity..

[@PanM8]

Daytona wasn't always a " big" city. The northeast has shown up here and overcrowded all of Florida. You are correct about the city of Daytona wanting the rally to go away. They have been slowly trying to get rid of it since the 90's.

[@tomd6103]

Come on up to Laconia, NH. The roads and scenery are great, the weather is (usually) great, the LE community is helpful and not out to screw you. They know how much money Bike Week brings into this little town. People who attend are respectful and cool. Never had a problem there in 25 years.

[@SuperPlastered]

I spent Mon, Tues, and Wed there and had an OK time. I can agree with you for the most part. I found that I may have grown out of the Daytona scene. It just wasn’t as fun as I remember.

[@Steve-iv9ss]

I am one of the locals… I try to go a day or two every year. But this year… wasn’t the bikes that were causing as much of an issue as just the amount of damn cars! Just to clarify, a cop can walk up to whomever they want and engage in a conversation. That’s not illegal in this state. Sorry you had an aggravating experience with one of the cops. Most are great people and attend the rally as well. And a lot of us want the rally but damn we still got live.

[@bigSSsmallpp]

Did Bike Week this year and can definitely say the police presence @ Cackleberry only added to the problem!! Friend of mine got pulled the first day for his Handlebars being above his shoulders. We blamed it on his super sweet mullet!! 😂

[@maddogsbuggyshop7071]

Amen brother they need to be keeping it safe not harassing people who are there to have a good time unless they are causing a safety issue

[@araneaetvelivolum1086]

He saw you observing his interaction with Matt and just wanted to make sure he intimidated you enough for you not to get brave. Saw similar situations during Biketoberfest and thought at that time that they must be on the lookout for some criminals or something like that. Had no clue that is their standard behavior. Well, let's not forget, on 9 good ones, there is always one bad one. Daytona PD just seems to embrace the bad ones. Nothing you can do about it, but I like that you have the balls to table the issue. Cochones!!!😅 I like to thank the Daytona PD for my perfect 2020 FLHTP though. 5k miles when I got it and runs great and got a super deal. These dudes swap bikes every year . Wonder how that bc works for the local tax payer ...😉 Ride safe 🤙

[@GALTIZER2003]

You are 100% right about the Daytona Police Dept., they are looking at bikes, going down Main Street they are giving people tickets for no glasses, makes no sense at all revenue generating.

[@jeffhart8184]

Hell yeah I agree with you 100% do you got but don't f*** around eye with somebody ain't doing nothing hell they put their britches on same way I do one damn leg out of

[@montejones5788]

You are spot-on about Sturgis police force. Many of those guys are volunteers from other forces that travel there to help the city of Sturgis out and they use their vacation to do so and they repeatedly come back year after year Sturgis has it right. Like yourself I have seen many times where they go out of their way to keep people out of jail, and do so professionally and courteously. Most of the ones that I've talked to love working the rally, and would not pass up a chance to work it your after year. Sturgis PD is what good police work looks like in action.

[@pb68slab18]

Went for the first time in '78. Went in '86-'87, and in '95-'96. Never again!

[@scottrobbins3410]

Couldn’t be any more truth to what you said. In the past 6-8 years, it’s gotten worse.

[@tchrishoward]

I totally agree that they shouldn't be harassing people, luckily I never had that happen to me the couple of times I went. (Bike Week and Biketoberfest), but on the flip side, we have all seen (more than a few) of the guys that have watched too much Sons Of Anarchy and Hell's Angels movies that think laws don't apply. In my opinion, they are as much to blame as bad cops, because they make us all look bad.

[@gregcorder828]

Totally agree,I'm from Daytona,live in NC now,hate to admit it but your spot on about the cops and traffic,went thru all this back in the 80's and they realized bikers spent the most money over any other tourist and they chilled the cops out,guess those guys retired!

[@ProfessionalMonkey]

It's gotten bad again.

[@krogersucks45]

Law Enforcement Daytona ..... Main reason I don't go...

[@BigRedHouster]

Same deal at Cackleberry, my buddy lifted his visor to talk to me when stopping at the people crossing. Cowboy wrote him a warring.