ROT Biker Rally | Official Site | FAQs | Rally Questions and Answers

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ROT Rally Dates 2008 - 2010 >> 3 FAQs

2008 ROT Biker Rally Dates:

June 12-15, 2008

2009 ROT Biker Rally Dates:

June 11-14, 2009

2010 ROT Biker Rally Dates:

June 10-12, 2010

Onsite Registration/Check In/Pre-Registration Questions >> 12 FAQs

Can I preregister for the ROT Rally?

Sure; preregistration opens every year on New Year's Day, and it ends on May 15th. You can preregister on this web site, print the application off the web site (under the registration tab) or you can use the form on the R.O.T. brochure found at most bike shops in Texas and surrounding states.

How much is it to register?

Prerigistration is $50 for adults, $20 for children 12 - 17 and no charge for children under 12 years of age.

Is the registration fee per person or per bike?

All registration fees are per person and are good for the duration of the event. There is no such thing as a ROT Rally day pass.

If I preregister and then discover I can’t come to Austin, will you mail my free T-shirt to me?

No. We will not mail free T-shirts either before or after the rally. If you return your gate pass to us before May 15th, we'll be happy to refund your admission fee minus 10% service fee or $25 which ever is less. All refund requests must be in writing or email and received by May 15th. No refunds after May 31st.

Can I get in on Thursday?

Yes. The ROT Rally starts on Thursday at 8:00AM.

What are the hours of operation?

The registration area in the north end of the gigantic Show Barn will be open from 8:00 AM until 10:00 PM on Thursday to Saturday. If you arrive outside of those hours, you'll be turned away by security. Unless, of course, you have already checked in and have a wrist band, in which case you can come and go as you please. Please note: RVs must arrive before 8:00pm in order to be parked. RVs arriving after 8:00pm will not be allowed to enter the rally grounds until 8:00am the following morning.

Can I park overnight in the registration parking lot if I arrive after 10 PM?

No. Due to the extended hours provided at the registration area, there will be no overnight parking or camping on any part of the rally premises by anyone who hasn't already registered and received his or her wristband. You must arrive before registration closes at 10:00 PM to gain access.

Do you take credit cards or checks at onsite registration?

Yes checks are ok and we expect to be set up for credit card transactions by rally time in 2008.

Can I buy a day pass like I do at some other rallies just to visit the vendors?

We frequently get this question and here is the best short answer we can give you. To accomplish a day pass we would have to isolate the vendors in one area, fence it off and provide security at each gate not an easy or inexpensive thing to do. We cater to those who want to experience the entire event including music, stunter, roller derby, or what ever else we pay to bring in in the form of entertainment. We are already at capacity and the Sheriff Dept is discouraging us from adding more traffic. For that reason we make the downtown party on Congress Ave free to those who can't or do not wish to pay the admission price.

I can't stay long. Is it okay if I just pop in for a couple of minutes and look around?

Sure thing. But first you need to step over to the registration tables and purchase an admission.

I've lost my pre-registration ticket/card, what do I do?

If you've already pre-registered, you are in our computer and all you need is a photo ID to get into the rally. If you have your confirmation receipt or email, make sure to bring it with you to speed things along. Just go to the Lost Card Table and the volunteers there will take care of you.

Duplicate Tickets?

Duplicate tickets will not be honored. One ticket per person, the first ticket through the scanner will receive access to the Rally. Please read the "Terms and Conditions" carefully and keep your ticket in the safe place.

RVs >> 15 FAQs

What is considered an "RV" at the ROT Rally?

Bottom line, if you’re sleeping in it and it has wheels, then you’ve got yourself an RV. Everyone who falls into this description will be required to reserve an RV space prior to the rally. For latest information and maps click on the RV button on the home page.

Who needs an RV space?

Anyone planning on camping in an RV (except campers pulled by a motorcycle) must have reserved an RV space, and obtain a RV pass at registration check-in, in order to gain entrance to the rally RV grounds.

Are there any RV spaces that have electric hook-ups?

Yes, each year we add more electrical capacity and post the changes and additons on the web site. Please check the RV lot maps for infomation on those with electric hook ups. All power is 30 amp 120 volt.

Can I choose my RV space, or is it 'first come, first served'?

This year, on the website, we will display on-line maps of pre-numbered spaces in most RV lots. You have the ability to reserve the space of your choice in the numbered lots before you arrive at the rally. There is no longer the need to be waiting in line for the gates to open in order to get the "best" space, the space you selected will be waiting for you when you arrive.

How much is RV parking?

Prices vary based on the size an location and start at $200 for the duration of the rally. The RV Reservation fee includes two Voucher Codes per space, which are redeemable for two rally registrations. Click the RV button to view the locator maps and prices.

If I am unable to attend the rally, can I get a refund on my RV space?

We have had a wait list for people wanting to reserve RV space for the rally. If you notify us with sufficient time to offer the space to the next person on the list, we will give a refund less 10% or $25 return fee (whichever is less) of the fee for the space.

Does my RV Reservation cover my registration fees?

For the 2008 rally, each RV space reservation includes two rally voucher codes which are redeemable for two rally registrations, at no additional charge. If more than two rally registrations per space are required, they may be purchased online or at the rally.

What RV camping information will I receive before the rally, and when should I expect it?

An order confirmation e-mail with an order reference number will be forwarded to you at the completion of the RV reservation transaction. Around the first of May you will be sent a confirmation letter with detailed RV camping instructions, via the US Mail. Be sure to let us know if there is any change of address, as you must bring this letter with you to the rally.

When can I arrive with an RV?

Due to the monster check-in of vendors on Wednesday, we anticipate being able to start processing RVs after Noon Wednesday. Please honor this time estimate closely, the number of vendors in the registration parking during the hours before Noon will be enormous. Help us meet the Noon check-in for RVs by arriving at Noon and not before. We thank you for your understanding in advance.

How late can I check in an RV at the rally?

RVs will be checked-in and parked from 12:00 noon until 8:00 pm on Wednesday, and 8:00 am until 8:00 pm on Thursday and Friday. Saturday we will stop parking RVs at 5:00 pm. PLEASE NOTE: RVs arriving after 8:00 pm on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday will not be admitted until 8:00 am the next morning.

Where can I park my RV?

There are multiple designated RV parking lots available for online reservation. ALL RVs must have a reserved space and obtain a RV pass in order to enter the raly grounds. Maps are available online and will also be included in the Rally Guide you will receive when you first arrive.

Where can I park other vehicles?

We will provide an area for free parking for motorcycles, cars, trucks and trailers. See web site maps for locations after Janurary 1st each year.

What are some of the important things that I need to know about the RVs?

Everything must fit in the allotted spaces (campers, trailers, cars, trucks, canopies, motorcycles, etc.). For example, if you have reserved a 20 x 50-foot space, and your truck a trailer have an overall length of 52 feet, you must unhook and pull alongside (within the 20 x 50 space), or reserve a 20 x 80-foot space.

Is there a dump station for my RV?

Yes, there is one free dump station on the grounds. In addition, a vendor will be on the grounds to provide holding tank servicing, as well as bulk water delivery for a fee. Trucks will be roamong through the RV lots, all you need to do is wave them down.

Will fresh water be available?

Valet holding tank and fresh water servicing is available. A vendor is on site to service RVs, for a fee. Look for the water trucks driving through the lots, just wave them down.

Traffic Rules and Questions >> 5 FAQs

Where can I park my car or truck?

Non-campers must park in designated parking lots only, and all non-camper cars and trucks will be directed to parking lots and kept off the main road. Campers are allowed one pass for a car or truck, other licensed vehicles (except motorcycles) must be parked in an designated parking area. RV campers: all licensed vehicles that do not fit into the allotted RV space must be parked in a designated parking area.

What times will the main gates to the rally be open?

All three gates will be open 24 hours a day starting Thursday at 8:00 AM for your convenience.

How will you keep the traffic moving and not bunching up?

We have substantially increased the number of traffic officers for safety, to keep traffic moving and to keep roadways clear. This is an item that will be watched closely by the rally staff.

What about more motorcycle parking space?

We have added two additional motorcycle only parking lots in 2007! That means we have more than doubled the amount of close-in and convenient to activity, “motorcycle only” parking space.

If I have an ATV or four wheeler can I bring it to the rally?

The use of ATVs, four wheelers, and other off road vehicles were to be banned at this year's rally, however we are happy to announce that we have reached an agreement with out insurance providers regarding the use of these vehicles. They will be allowed, but we do ask your cooperation in driving them responsibly and safely. All ATVs and four wheelers driven at the 2007 ROT Rally must be operated in a safe manner by a licensed driver. If we are unable to control the use of these vehicles, we will have no choice, but to ban their use at future ROT Rallies. Therefore, reckless or dangerous use of these vehicles cannot be tolerated.

General >> 6 FAQs

Is the ROT Rally a Harley-only event?

NO! The ROT Rally is wide open to ALL bikes and bikers, just like Sturgis, Daytona, etc. Everybody’s welcome.

Where in Austin is the ROT Rally held, and how do I get to it?

The Republic Of Texas Biker Rally is always held at the Travis County Exposition Center (7311 Decker Lane, Austin, Texas 78724) on the east edge of Austin. The Expo Center is easy to get to even if you're not familiar with Austin. From the major intersection of I-35 and US 290 East in north Austin, go six miles east on 290 until you come to a stop light at the intersection of 290 and Decker Lane (FM 3177). Turn right (south) onto Decker Lane and go three miles to the front gate of the Expo Center (on your left).

What's with the processing fee for credit cards registration fees online?

E-commerce is not really expensive, but it's not exactly free either. You're more than welcome to avoid the processing fee by sending in your preregistration form via US mail.

How can I get on your E-newsletter list or mailing list?

Click add me to your email list on the home page and you are done for the enewsletter! If you want to be on the snail mail list for brochures, email Nancy@rotrally.com. or anyone on the contact us page.

Can I come in a car?

Yes, but unless you are camping and have a camping car pass, you will need to park in the remote (South auto) parking lot and ride the free tram.

Why is the sky blue?

We're just not rightly sure.

Bike Show Questions >> 3 FAQs

How much does it cost to enter the bike show?

Entering the bike show is free to anyone who has registered for the rally.

When is the bike show judging and when will the winners be announced?

11:30 AM to 1:30 PM Saturday: Winners will be announced immediately afterwards.

Do you give prizes to the winners of the bike show?

Yes. All bike show winners will receive trophies.

Motorcycle Parade >> 3 FAQs

When does the motorcycle parade begin staging?

7:00-7:30 PM Friday: Stage up for escorted parade to Congress Avenue.

Where does the motorcycle parade stage up?

The staging area is on the back side of the Expo Center in the south auto parking lot, and the parade will exit through a special gate onot Decker Lake Road. Refer to the map in your Rally Guide for the exact location.

What time does the Parade depart?

7:30 PM Friday: Parade departs the rally site for Congress Avenue.

Motorcycle Poker Run >> 1 FAQ

What happened to the poker run?

Beginning in 2006, the State of Texas Attorney General decreed that poker runs were illegal gambling and banned them in the State of Texas. The Rally Committed has continually attempted to get his decision reversed, but as of this writing we have not been successful.

Street Party >> 4 FAQs

What happened to the party on 6th Street?

It's still there, but it has been greatly expanded to include more parking and a free concert on Congress Avenue.

Will my bike be safe there?

The Austin Police Department will be patrolling the bike parking on Congress Avenue and adjacent side streets.

How far is it from Congress Avenue to 6th Street?

6th Street intersects Congress Avenue. The concert stage will be set up at that intersection.

What time is the Street Party?

Officially, it's runs from about 7:00 PM until about 2:00 AM (or whenever) Sunday morning. But actually, the party begins when you get there.

Vendors >> 3 FAQs

How early can I sign up to be a vendor at the ROT Rally?

We usually send out the vendor info literature for the following year's rally before the end of December. If you want to be added to our mailing list, visit our contact us page and give us your postal mailing address. You can also find our vendor info elsewhere on this web site. Please be advised that all avaliable vendor spaces are first come, first served.

I want to be a vendor at the ROT Rally. Are there any goods or services that are not allowed for sale there?

For one good reason or another, we can not allow vendors to sell guns (but knives are okay), tobacco, food, or beverages of any kind (including ice).

Is there a list of vendors?

The Vendors page on our website there is a link to the list. There are also floor-plans displaying the location of the confirmed vendors.

Church Services >> 1 FAQ

Are there any worship services planned?

Yes, on Sunday at 9:00 AM, worship services will be conducted the Christian Motorcyclists Association in the South end of the Covered Vendor Mall.

Camping >> 3 FAQs

How much is tent camping?

Free! Help yourself. Please be considerate of your fellow campers.

Where can I camp?

Anywhere out of the way of the crowds and the vendors. The Expo Center is clearing new camping areas for us this year on the hills overlooking nearby Decker Lake. Feel free to get out there in the trees and pitch your tents. Please do not drag any Port-a-Potties into the trees, because they will not be serviced there; they have to stay close to the roads.

Can I park my motorcycle trailer in the tent camping area next to my campsite?

So far, the Parks Department has allowed cars and trucks with small trailers (12ft. or less) into the tent camping area. All cars/trucks are required to purchase a vehicle parking pass if you plan to park your vehicle near your tent. Trailers longer than 12 ft., up to 20 ft. may be parked in one of the free trailer drops, or in an RV reserved space. Trailers in excess of 20 ft. require an RV space, or a special permit in order to gain access to the rally grounds. Parking passes may be purchased at the time your check in and get your wristband.