Brazil News
RIO DE JANEIRO – Rio Harley Days 2012 concluded Sunday with 1,500 bikers from all over the country touring Rio on a 35-kilometer ride, reported online media. The journey, which lasted about an hour, started at the Marina da Gloria and passed by various sites around the city such as Copacabana Beach and the Candelaria Church. Although most of the bikers were locals, the ride attracted people from other parts of the country.
Rio Harley Days 2012 Draws Thousands
“My friend and I rode 900 kilometers (about 600 miles) from Curitiba to Rio de Janeiro,” university professor Lisiane Lange, 29, told G1.
The biker, who received her motorcycle license two years ago, rode her Harley-Davidson to the festival. “I think it is pretty cool because the biker spirit is different. There is a lot of camaraderie,” said Lang.
Many couples participated in the event, which is part of Rio’s second annual Rio Harley Days Festival. Some couples used separate bikes, and some rode together. “We like to ride together,” said attorney Kassin Rasian, 36. His wife teacher Ida Raslan, 35, who rode the 110 kilometers on the back of his bike, joined Rasian. “The trip was amazing. Rio de Janeiro is truly a wonderful city,” said Ida.
The ride attracted experienced riders as well, such as retiree Henrique Ferreira, 72. “It was a wonderful feeling. I’ve never done a tour like this before,” said Ferreira. Henrique’s friend, engineer Vitor O’Hara, 56, came along for the ride. “I think it was a very cool and it also helped to publicize the beauty of the city,” said O’Hara.
The parade of bikes was part of the second annual Rio Harley Days Festival, which ended Sunday. The festival promoted many activities for bikers and motorcycle fans. In addition to test-rides and a motorcycle exhibition, the festival included performances by military bands and concerts.
