This past August, the quiet countryside of Lexington, Ohio transformed into a thunderous battleground as the Bagger Racing League (BRL) roared into the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. For three adrenaline-fueled days, the historic track echoed with the sound of heavyweight V-twin engines, turning heads and defying expectations in one of the most talked-about events of the summer.
What unfolded at Mid-Ohio wasn’t your typical motorcycle race. These weren’t sportbikes or track-prepped superbikes—these were fully loaded touring motorcycles, saddlebags and all, racing elbow-to-elbow at speeds north of 120 mph. For anyone new to bagger racing, the sight of hulking Harley-Davidsons and Indian Challengers leaning into turns and battling down the back straight was as mind-blowing as it was exhilarating.
The fans came early and came in droves. Riders from all over the country showed up not only to race, but to represent their teams, their builds, and their brand loyalty. From custom exhaust notes to drag-race-style hole shots, everything about this event screamed attitude and torque.
The August sun beat down relentlessly, but it didn’t stop fans from crowding around the paddock area where they could get up close to the bikes, meet the riders, and talk shop with builders and crew chiefs. The scent of burnt rubber, high-octane fuel, and food truck fare lingered in the air.
Mid-Ohio’s technical course—with its tight corners, elevation changes, and fast straights—posed a true test for machines weighing over 600 pounds. Many wondered how these baggers would hold up, but the riders handled the track with skill and courage. There were heart-pounding moments, unexpected passes, and a few tank-slappers that kept everyone on edge.
As the sun set on Sunday and engines cooled down, one thing was certain—bagger racing had made its mark on Mid-Ohio. Fans left buzzing with stories, photos, and the unmistakable ringing in their ears that only a BRL event can deliver.
Whether you're a die-hard V-twin rider or just curious about what happens when American iron meets road racing, this year’s stop at Mid-Ohio proved that bagger racing isn’t just a sideshow—it’s the main event.
