The fall motorcycle event in Daytona Beach saw its first official day yesterday as bikers roared up and down International Speedway Boulevard under the hot Florida sun.

With temperatures hitting 90 degrees there were mixed reviews on the number of riders who may have been more concerned about the ongoing economic storm rather than any weather fronts.

Officials and organizers have been optimistic over possible attendance to this year's Biketoberfest with indicators such as hotel reservations promising a larger crowd than in 2008. 

While vendors were optimistically anxious as they set up for business, some businesses and popular bars reported a slow start to the motorcycle event.
 
For those motorcycle enthusiasts who do attend Biketoberfest, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is available with it's 511 service either by phone or internet at the FL511.com Web site. The rally has partnered with FDOT to inform travelers about 511 and other safety tips.

“We are delighted to be working with the Florida Department of Transportation in sharing this important information and resource for travelers coming to Biketoberfest in Daytona Beach,” said Janet Kersey, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer for the Daytona Beach Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. “This is truly a great benefit that adds to the safety and well-being of our guests.”
 
The 511 system covers all of Florida’s interstates, including Florida’s Turnpike and many other major metropolitan roadways. Travelers can call 511 and say “I-95” or “I-4” to hear information on crashes, congestion, construction, lane closures and more. The FL511.com Web site features the same, detailed traffic and travel information as the phone call in addition to traffic camera views and links to other travel information.

For safety purposes, FDOT encourages travelers to:

1. Call 511 before you hit the road.
2. Call 511 before you enter a new roadway to become aware of current road conditions.
3. Customize your trip before you leave home with My Florida 511 personalized routes at www.FL511.com to minimize time spent on the phone.
4. Drive slowly and keep your lights on low beam in low visibility.
5. For those choosing to trailer their motorcycle, always wear a seat belt.
6. Don’t drink and drive.

 “Calling 511 prepares travelers for traffic conditions so they know what to expect on the roadway,” said FHP’s Sgt. Kim Montes, reminding drivers that using the free 511 service to prepare for delays before getting on the road could reduce incidents.

The Florida 511 system now features new My Florida 511 personalized services allowing travelers to register their routes online and hear information on those routes right away when calling 511. Users can also register to receive traffic alerts via text message, e-mail and/or phone call based on time of day and severity of incident.

A call to 511 is free, however normal cell phone minute and/or text message charges apply.

While the number of bikers who do find the urge to hit the open road for warmer climates may be influenced by the financial world, Mother Nature has given her blessing for Biketoberfest. Aside from a 60% chance of showers today weather reports predict sunshine and Florida temperatures in the seventies over the weekend.