Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is reminding western Kentucky motorists to be alert for an influx of motorcycles this week. The Kentucky Bike Rally scheduled for Thursday through Sunday is expected to attract some 15,000 motorcycle enthusiasts to Tthe Union County Fairgrounds in Sturgis.
The event brings a surge of motorcycle traffic to the region, particularly along US 60, KY 109, KY 56, and KY 91, as well as along nearby Illinois Route 13.
In addition to increased motorcycle traffic along major routes, rally participants often cruise the back roads of western Kentucky and southern Illinois while attending the event.
During peak travel times the added motorcycle traffic and other vehicles accessing the event site can create minor delays along US 60 through the Sturgis area.
In Kentucky, 72 of the 721 highway fatalities in 2011 were motorcyclists. Of those fatalities, 42 riders were not wearing a helmet and 10 riders were under the influence of alcohol.
