Welcome to the 19th Annual Rough Rider Motorcycle Rally in Las Vegas, New Mexico. Always held on the last full weekend of July, this Rally was started by local motorcycle riders who came together in 2005 to plan a Rally around the area’s history and special environment. The name was chosen because Rough Riders had a long tradition in Las Vegas.

Early in 1898, Theodore Roosevelt recruited the 1st Volunteer Calvary Regiment from the western territories—New Mexico wouldn’t become a state for fourteen more years. He chose to enlist these men because of his confidence in their ability to adapt, their self-sufficiency and their spirit. The regiment’s performance during the Spanish-American War proved his belief in the frontier character. The men he chose came from various backgrounds and circumstances. Even so, these men all formed strong personal ties. Led by Theodore Roosevelt, the first reunion of the regiment was held in Las Vegas in 1899. Over 600 of the original 1000 soldiers attended. During the next 70 years, Rough Rider reunions were held to honor the regiment’s military service, but especially to celebrate the camaraderie and unique personalities that defined the Rough Riders.

For the past eighteen years, the Rough Rider Motorcycle Rally has brought motorcyclists from all walks of life, where camaraderie, unique bikes and personalities characterize the western spirit. Las Vegas’ historic Bridge Street which enters into our expansive Plaza is the backdrop for the Rally. Shops, businesses, vendors and restaurants provide rally goers the opportunity for unique experiences. The roads radiating out of the town and wind thru amazing scenery and villages give riders of the iron horse a variety of options. The roads radiating out of the town and wind thru amazing scenery and villages give riders of the iron horse a variety of options.

Be part of the tradition started by Teddy Roosevelt’s Rough Riders over 100 years ago and ride in on your iron horse on the last weekend in July.