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The man behind the IRF
The first IRF was held in 2019 by a man called Jean-Marie who was born in France but now resides in the Czech Republic.
Jean-Marie who founded one of the first IMRG’s in Europe, IMRG Písek which was founded 05/12/2015 This led to his involvement in an IMRG gathering in France in 2018. But Jean-Marie and his fellow riders saw the potential for bigger things which led to the IRF being held in the Czech Republic.
It was not an easy task since 2019 we had some support but not the way it became, nowadays integrated in the whole IMC yearly marketing and promotion calendar. 'We have since 2019 been given a free motorcycle for the raffle and it took months of planning with a committee of 6 persons production only not counting countless helpers / volunteers on site during the event working long weekends and late nights!'
Jean-Marie has been riding his whole adult life, He bought his first Indian about nine years ago, 'a First generation 2014 Black Indian Chief which afterwards I tuned into a black Chief Vintage so added, leather saddle bags, windshield etc.' As many do, he got caught by the bug of the iconic brand with its unique design that incorporates modern technology and design. He has owned many more Indians over the years and is on his 4th now being a Pursuit Dark horse.
The inaugural event was held in June 2019 at the České Budějovice Czech Republic in the South Region of the country with scenic roads, rolling hills and lakes.
It saw a reported 550 + bikes from 17 countries with entertainment from Stunt riders to guided tours, trade stalls to food stands, live music from bands such as ZZ Top revival to AC/DC Czech revival and the main event being the 25km Parade Ride which travelled along some epic and scenic roads ending up at Budweis’s historical town square where riders were able to display their Indian Riders Flags. Which became a big focal point and central display of unity of the range of Indian Riders Groups that are attending this event.
The event has been growing steadily each year and had become known as “Budweis” due to the location it was held in. It also offers IMC the opportunity to share its future plans and gain the riders feedback in its range along with other industry suppliers.
The IRF in 2024 saw a reported 2,900 bikes with around 1,900 being Indians from around 39 countries and had truly cemented itself as an international event for Indian riders. The parade ride saw around 1,700 bikes roar along its 24-mile route. 'According to police report escorting the parade we had one moment a 10km long line of motorcycles.' There is also a custom show of Indians of around 32 spanning multiple classes and models. So far its’ the first and only 100% Indian Motorcycle dedicated custom show in the world also AMD Approved.
But due to its rapid growth a decision was made to move the venue primarily due to the size of the expected numbers for future years. Also, the new location offers more accommodation options from camping to 4-star hotels within easy walking distance of the festival.
IRF 2025 at the new venue in Lipno boasts a capacity of over 7,500 beds over a wide range of accommodation choices. Also, more importantly Lipno offers one of the best riding regions in the Czech Republic, very good roads with some of the best and most beautiful scenery within the National Forest. At this year’s event there will be various product launch’s from IMC and its partners as well as independent aftermarket businesses.
The event has formed into one of the must do or bucket list events for Indian Motorcycle owners and enthusiasts which also welcomes motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the World.
IRF 2025 sees a larger AMD approved Custom show, 2025 Demo Model rides, a new custom Indian Bike will be raffled off, with the parade ride being 45km but also offers guided local rides during the event to explore the bohemian countryside, food trucks and an exhibitors village along with stunt shows, street performers and dance shows and the main stage will have live music in the afternoon into the evenings with Live bands and DJ’s.
The Indian Riders Fest 2025 is scheduled to take place from June 19 to June 22, 2025, in Lipno nad Vltavou, a picturesque town in South Bohemia, Czech Republic. This event, themed "On the Road Again," will be held along the shores of Lipno Lake, offering attendees scenic rides through the surrounding forests of the Šumava National Park.
Check the web site out for more info which is available in 4 different languages.
The festival is open to all motorcycle enthusiasts, not just Indian Motorcycle owners. It features a variety of activities, including scenic rides, live music, DJ parties, and the Budweis Custom Show, which showcases custom Indian Motorcycle bikes.
