A Legacy Rolls On in the Heart of Columbus

By Monica Jones

** All Images by Dewayne Goss

For years, the rumble of engines and the easy camaraderie of riders defined a Columbus institution: Bikes On Broadway. It was the soundtrack of early fall, a vibrant spectacle which transformed our iconic street into a mecca for motorcycle enthusiasts and curious onlookers alike. This year, the spirit of that beloved event rolls on, albeit with a new address and a fresh name: Bikes Off Broadway, making its home at the riverside Woodruff Park on September 12th and 13th.

The move, born out of logistical shifts, hasn’t dampened the spirits of the core crew. Joey Rucker and Benny Downs, two local bike enthusiasts who’ve been deeply entrenched in the event for years, are eager to usher in this new chapter. “It’s been a wave of, some might say ‘BS’, and some might say opportunity,” Joey Rucker candidly admits, reflecting on the quick pivot required to relocate the massive two-day affair. “But I feel like we’re now at least riding the wave a little bit, maybe to keep it from crashing on us.” It’s that raw, unfiltered determination that has always defined the heart of this event and its passionate organizers.

At its core, Bikes Off Broadway is about keeping things simple. “My attraction personally for Bikes On Broadway has always been simplicity,” Joey explains. “It’s basically music, it’s food, beverages, bands, and motorcycles to look at.” And, as you might playfully recall, “Fat bottom girls.” Joey quickly clarifies, “We don’t advertise that, but pretty ladies make the world go round!” 

It’s that easy, unpretentious atmosphere that draws people in year after year. Benny Downs, a rider since ’68, emphasizes the unique position of this event. “It’s the only motorcycle event like this in this area,” he says. If you’ve never been to one, he promises, “You will really enjoy yourself.” And for those wondering if it’s “like Sturgis,” Benny chuckles, “Not quite, no. You’ve got to wear more than pasties.” The key pillars, reiterated by Joey, are clear: “It is family. All ages are welcome… and any and all motorcyclists are welcome, whether it’s two wheels or three wheels, they’re all welcome.” It’s a deliberately inclusive space, a gathering for a community often misunderstood.

“Everybody’s super friendly, and it’s so awesome to see all the different bikes in the community get together,” shares Stevie Hodge from Freeze Frame Yogurt Shop.

From Friday, September 12th, through Saturday, September 13th, Woodruff Park, located at 1000 Bay Avenue, will be transformed. The festivities kick off officially around noon on Friday, though organizers and vendors will be setting up bright and early. “We’ve got bands,” Joey confirms, detailing a robust lineup of classic rock bands playing from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday, and then from noon until 11 p.m. on Saturday. Get ready to rock out with headliners like GP38, closing out Friday night, and Dixie Red, wrapping up Saturday. The stage will also feature talents like The Active Ingredients, Dagger Tooth, Stained Glass Saints (Friday), and a full Saturday roster including acoustic sets by Ava Boswell, Tyler Guthrie, and Charles Tigner in the early afternoon, followed by electric acts like Trey Guthrie, The Fortunate, The Jack Banks Special, Rare Breed, Jaded Soul, and Spent. In total, a whopping 14 bands will hit the stage.

Beyond the music, a feast awaits. Seven food trucks will be on site Friday, including local favorites like Tuesday’s Tacos, LA To Go, and Freaky Fries, with six remaining for Saturday. Expect a diverse range of culinary delights to keep you fueled throughout the event. Over a dozen vendors will also line the section of sidewalk on the river side of Woodruff Park, offering a variety of goods – and not just motorcycle related. The food trucks will be set up conveniently on the Dillingham Street bridge. Interactive highlights include a thrilling Bike Show, organized in conjunction with Rally Point and the Harley Owners Group (HOG Chapter), and a raucous Loud Exhaust Contest presented by Extreme Power.

On Saturday afternoon, mark your calendars for the Riverwalk Ride: riders will meet at the Infantry Museum and be led by the CPD motor squad all the way up the Riverwalk, crossing Dillingham Street directly into the event around 1:00 p.m. (kickstands up at 1:30 p.m.). And yes, for those wondering, beverages will be available. Stir Up Trouble will be handling four stations offering beer and pre-mixed drinks. Be sure to stop by the CAM tent for door prizes, raffle prizes, and the highly anticipated drawing for a motorcycle on Saturday night.

The primary beneficiary of Bikes Off Broadway is the Columbus Association of Motorcyclists (CAM). As Benny explains, “What we do is help fallen riders in the community… if a biker gets in a tight situation with something, we try to help them.” CAM also contributes to the individual charities of its 10 Columbus-based member clubs. For instance, the renowned Toys for Tots initiative in Columbus is proudly put on by the Iron Cross, whose president also chairs CAM, making it a truly collaborative community effort. Benny shares a powerful anecdote: “We got to help a member recently when his home burnt down. We made phone calls, got them a place to live and food to eat.” It’s a clear illustration that the biker community’s support extends far beyond the road. The overall sense here is family. Bikers are family within themselves, but they’re family to the community as well in all kinds of ways.

Perhaps one of the most poignant aspects of Bikes Off Broadway is its enduring spirit. “One of the origins of Bikes on Broadway and now Bikes Off Broadway has been 9-11,” Joey shares.. Every year, a special 9/11 ceremony is held on Saturday night. Christine Cole, the same woman who sang the national anthem from day one when the Southern Cruisers took over the event in 2002, will once again lend her voice. This heartfelt tribute, including an opening prayer, takes place at 6 p.m. on Saturday. 

Despite the shift from Broadway, the organizers are confident in the event’s enduring appeal. Joey notes the proactive support from the city, including the mayor’s office, city manager, Uptown Columbus, and CPD, all of whom have been “super, super supportive of this change.” It’s a clear indicator of the event’s positive impact on the city. Bikes Off Broadway is a free event, open to everyone. There’s no cost to enter, enjoy the bikes, the music, the vendors, and the vibrant atmosphere. While food and drink will have their own pricing, the experience itself is a gift to the community. As Joey aptly puts it, “Come as you are, because that’s what we’re going to be doing.” 

This September 12th and 13th, head to Woodruff Park. Witness the evolution of a beloved Columbus tradition, experience the camaraderie, enjoy the music and the machines, and be part of an event that truly gives back. Bikes Off Broadway promises to be an unforgettable weekend for the ages, proving that no matter the location, the heart of the event and its community continues to ride strong.