7 Things You Need To Know About The Sturgis Biker Bar

The Sturgis biker bar, the iconic Full Throttle Saloon, was devastated by a fire during the 75th anniversary of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Here's a look at the journey to rebuild this beloved landmark and what lies ahead.

1. The Fire That Changed Everything

The Full Throttle Saloon, located in Sturgis, was destroyed by a fire on September 8th, 2015. Michael Ballard, the owner, and his partner Jesse James Dupree have been working tirelessly to rebuild this iconic bar.

2. The Loss Was Devastating

Ballard received a heartbreaking call informing him that the Full Throttle Saloon had burned down, destroying 27 Harley-Davidson motorcycles and years of memorabilia. The loss was not just of a building but of a lifetime of memories and hard work.

Full Throttle Saloon before the fire

3. The Outpouring of Support

After the fire, Ballard received thousands of messages from fans urging him to rebuild the Full Throttle Saloon. This support provided the strength to begin the rebuilding process immediately.

Full Throttle Saloon being rebuilt

4. A New Beginning

In May, Ballard purchased new land for the bar's rebuild. With a lot of hard work, the structures and main stage began to rise. Though still under construction, the new bar is rapidly taking shape.

5. Fans React to the New Design

Despite the ongoing construction, many fans have expressed excitement about the new bar. Some have noted that the new Full Throttle Saloon promises to be better and more welcoming than the original.

Construction of the new Full Throttle Saloon

6. The New Location

The new Full Throttle Saloon is located just ten miles northeast of Sturgis, in a 600-acre site. Ballard believes that the new location will attract fans and promises further developments in the years to come.

New location of Full Throttle Saloon

7. New Features for Visitors

The new Full Throttle Saloon will offer RV facilities, tent camping, and additional cabins for visitors. The owner is committed to making each year’s experience better with new additions and improvements.

Ballard emphasizes that the move to the new location is a tribute to the family who started the event, ensuring the legacy of the Full Throttle Saloon lives on.