Madison Will Host Gold Wing Motorcycle Convention Next Summer

Twelve thousand members of the Gold Wing Road Riders Association (GWRRA) are expected at a convention called the Wing Ding in Madison next July.

A group of motorcyclists riding Gold Wings outside the Dane County’s Alliant Energy Center honked their horns in support of local officials clinching a deal for the convention. Honda Gold Wings are wider than most motorcycles, nearly always polished to perfection and loaded with extras.

Wisconsin Tourism Secretary Stephanie Klett rode one right up to the press conference podium.

“I have to say, I have never been on the back of a Gold Wing until today and it had everything but a flat screen TV,” said Klett.

The last time Madison hosted the Wing Ding convention was in 2003. Deb Archer, president of the Greater Madison Convention and Visitors Bureau (GMCVB), put in a bid to lure the bikers back in a market described as “very competitive.”

“This community welcomes [GWRRA] with open arms,” says Archer. “We are the only city that has hosted this group for five times. So we know they have a love affair with our community, and we’re delighted.”

GMCVB estimates the 12,000 attendees of next year’s Wing Ding will spend $3.4 million while in the area during July 2-5.

GWRRA is a social organization for owners and riders that seeks to foster safe, enjoyable riding while also working to improve the public image of motorcycling.