Motorcycles on Meridian brings bike culture to downtown Indy
'IMS After Dark' also offers motorcyclists evening activities at IMS

INDIANAPOLIS, Wednesday, Aug. 24, 2011 - When the world's best motorcycle racers come to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Aug. 26-28, one of the most exciting events associated with the Red Bull Indianapolis GP also will return.

Motorcycles on Meridian, a gathering of thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts, will take place from 7 p.m.-3 a.m. Friday, Aug. 26 and Saturday, Aug. 27 on South Meridian Street in downtown Indianapolis.

The event is free and open to everyone, riders and non-riders, to experience the motorcycle culture of Indianapolis in a safe, festive environment.

For both nights of the event, South Meridian Street in downtown Indianapolis will be open only to motorcycle traffic and parking between Monument Circle and South Street, providing a perfect opportunity for riders and fans to check out the exciting restaurants and downtown nightlife while soaking up the two-wheeled lifestyle.

All parking garages in the area will be open and accessible to cars only, and ABATE of Indiana will assist motorcyclists with parking and also provide safe rides home for riders if necessary.

In addition, as part of an expanded lineup of evening party, social and music attractions at IMS, public gates will remain open until 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday at the track as part of "IMS After Dark," creating one of the coolest parties of the year, energized by the style and attitude of Red Bull.

And for the first time, motorcyclists can park their bikes in the center of the action on the new Main Street in the IMS infield, creating the social scene that is a vital part of every rider's lifestyle. A variety of fun, action-packed activities, including music, motorcycle competition and fashion, will be located along Main Street.

General admission tickets are just $10 Friday and $20 Saturday and include on-track action and "IMS After Dark" activities.