Thunder in the Glens, a beloved Scottish motorcycle rally, has announced a pause for 2026, leaving its future up in the air. This news has created quite a stir in the motorcycling community and beyond. Here is a look at the event’s history, the reasons behind the cancellation, and what this means for the future.
The Rumble Fades: Why Thunder in the Glens is Taking a Break
The Dunedin Chapter Scotland, the incredible volunteer group behind the rally, has confirmed the event will not take place in 2026. This decision follows months of reflection and discussion. Rally co-ordinator Shirley Gunn explained that the rally started with a simple idea: bringing Harley-Davidson enthusiasts together to celebrate their shared passion and the stunning Highland spirit.
Over the years, the rally has grown into something none of the organizers could have imagined, drawing thousands of riders and spectators to the picturesque town of Aviemore. This success, however, brought its own challenges. Like many events, Thunder in the Glens has faced rising infrastructure and accommodation costs. These expenses have affected not only ticket sales but also the personal costs for the dedicated volunteers who are the lifeblood of the event.
The decision to pause in 2026 is a chance for the organizing committee to breathe and dream. They hope to reconnect with the rally’s original heart and explore new formats or different ways to bring the event back. The break is a chance for a new beginning, not a final farewell.
A Roaring Success: The Legacy of Thunder in the Glens
Since its inception in 1997, Thunder in the Glens has grown to become one of Europe’s largest Harley Owner Group rallies. From a humble gathering of a few hundred participants, it expanded to welcome over 3,000 registered bikers annually, with an estimated 10,000 visitors flocking to Aviemore each year.
The rally is a huge boon for the local economy, filling hotels and restaurants and bringing a vibrant, festive atmosphere to the town. Attendees praise the friendly atmosphere, the camaraderie, and the incredible spectacle of the ride-out, where thousands of motorcycles rumble through the Cairngorms National Park. It is a family-oriented event that welcomes all types of bikers and non-bikers alike, creating a joyous community experience.
Likes and Dislikes:
- Likes: The sense of community, the spectacular ride-out, live music, a wide variety of stalls, and the general festival vibe are frequently mentioned as highlights. Many people love that it is an inclusive event, welcoming all motorcycle brands.
- Dislikes: The primary challenge seems to be the event’s own success. The large crowds and associated costs have made it a complex and expensive undertaking for the volunteer team.
What about the Competition?
While Thunder in the Glens holds a unique position in the Scottish rally scene, other major motorcycle events exist. For example, the Scottish Six Days Trial is a historic and internationally recognized trials competition, a completely different type of event focused on skill and endurance rather than a large-scale gathering and celebration.
Motorcycle racing at Knockhill is another popular event, but this is a track-based competition rather than a rally. These events, while popular, simply do not offer the same community-focused, all-encompassing experience that Thunder in the Glens provides. This makes the pause of the Aviemore rally even more significant, as a true alternative is hard to find.
Sources
- Aviemore shocked by 2026 Harley-Davidson pull out – Strathspey & Badenoch Herald
- Popular Scottish motorcycle rally called off for next year – Visordown
- Thunder in the Glens 2025 – Great North Lodges
- About the SSDT – Scottish Six Days Trial
- Scottish Championship Bike Racing – Round 1 at Knockhill
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