DELAND, Fla. – The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), in collaboration with the statewide Motorcycle Safety Coalition, is proud to announce the return of the Ride SMART 2 Daytona campaign, aimed at ensuring the safety of all participants during this year’s Daytona Beach Biketoberfest.

Scheduled to take place from October 17 to 20, 2024, Biketoberfest is a nationally renowned event expected to draw around 100,000 motorcycle enthusiasts. Recognized for its statewide, regional, and local significance, Biketoberfest serves as a celebration of motorcycle culture and camaraderie. However, with the excitement of this event comes a critical need for safety awareness.

Bikers can stop by FDOT’s Ride SMART pop-up booth throughout Biketoberfest at J&P Cycles, 253 Destination Daytona Lane, Ormond Beach. Open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily from October 17 to 20, the Ride SMART booth will provide attendees with motorcycle safety resources and feature a mobile video booth, selfie frames, and the Ride SMART quiz, encouraging riders to test their knowledge on safe riding practices.

As part of FDOT’s statewide Ride SMART and Target Zero initiatives, Ride SMART 2 Daytona takes a focused approach to engaging bikers during Daytona Beach’s two biggest motorcycle events — Biketoberfest and Bike Week — where an influx of bikers gather, and motorcycle-related crashes tend to spike. 2023 Biketoberfest saw 12 serious injuries and four fatalities during the four-day event.

"Biketoberfest draws thousands of motorcyclists to the Daytona Beach area each year, and our priority is to ensure that everyone has a safe experience," said FDOT District Five Secretary John E. Tyler. P.E. "Ride SMART 2 Daytona reminds riders to make smart choices on the road, so whether you're attending the event or on your daily commute, we can all return home safely to our loved ones."

Through collaboration with community partners, Ride SMART provides motorcyclists with critical training, resources, and education. The initiative encourages bikers to ride S.M.A.R.T:

• Say no to drinking and riding
• Make yourself more visible to motorists
• Always wear your helmet when you ride
• Ride in control—within legal and personal limits
• Train regularly and obtain proper motorcycle endorsements

"We believe that by working together and promoting a culture of safety, we can make a significant impact on motorcycle safety during Biketoberfest and beyond," said FDOT District Five Safety Administrator Loreen Bobo, P.E.  “Through collaboration and vigilance, we can make sure that everyone enjoys the thrill of Biketoberfest while returning home safely to their loved ones.”

Ride SMART 2 Daytona invites all participants, spectators, and stakeholders to join forces in prioritizing safety and responsibility on the road. For more information on the campaign and motorcycle safety resources, please visit www.ridesmartflorida.com.