The bikes all assembled in the various streets of the resort, with the local Dunedin Chapter Marshals and the police taking charge of making sure that it proceded in an orderly fashion.
The route left Aviemore and ended in Grantown on Spey, in the heartland of Speyside malt whisky! It was about 60 miles long and the 2,500 bikes that took part made up a 12 mile column, which the police ensured was not broken by closing off all the junctions we passed. People everywhere cheered and waved as the column took 30 minutes to pass them, and there was a widespread and enthusiastic welcome to the event - mind you, it does contribute over £1 million to the economy in one weekend! But, the people of Grantown on Spey are particularly welcoming, with their Chamber of Commerce organising the closure of the main road so all the bikes can park, and laying on stands and tents with refreshments with a Taste of Scotland, some of which are geared at raising money for charities.
The route took us up into the highlands and around Lochindorb, where the road was very close to the water's edge and some worried that if the wind suddenly stopped, while they were leaning against it, they would have ridden into the water - it was blustery! But, the scenery was amazing and the view of the column of bikes into the distance was quite outstanding.
Overall, the organisation of the ride out epitomised the attention to detail for the whole of the Rally, with both Harley-Davidson in attendance to show off the 2010 new models, plus Harley Owner Group officials.
On Sunday we enjoyed a ride on back roads to Newtownmore, where John's grandparents lived, and Kingussie nearby. We passed, but didn't join, the BBQ organised for the Rally at Kingussie on the way back.
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