The Brass Monkey

What is it? … One of the best informal motorcycle rallies, this year in its 35th year. Originally patterned after Germany’s Elefanten Treffen, it was intended to be a cold-weather snow-camping rally for the die-hard. For the most part this meant sidecarists although solo riders were welcomed.

The first Brass Monkey was held in Flagstaff (I believe in December) at the KOA. Over the years the venue has shifted to snow-free but occasionally nippy climes and to south of the border in Mexico.

The tradition of winter rallying has been maintained with the Presidents Day long weekend in February being the favored dates.

Although generally thought of as a sidecar rally, solo riders attend and are welcome. This is still essentially a camping rally, although since the Brass Monkey is a spontaneous gathering with everyone pitching in there is no one to “in charge” to complain if you find a local motel and visit during the day.

Be warned that it’s way more fun if you camp.


When is it?… The long Presidents’ Day weekend, Friday (if you skip work) Saturday, Sunday and Monday. February 15, 16, 17, and 18, 2008


Where is it?… The campground is at Cottonwood Cove Campground on the Colorado River. This is on Lake Mojave at the south end of the Lake Mead Recreation Area.

Cottonwood Cove is located 14 miles East of Searchlight Nevada on Route 164. There is motel at the Cottonwood Cove Resort if you’re not camping.