Albert Lea wins bid to be start for national motorcycle ride

ALBERT LEA — Glenville American Legion Riders Chapter 264 submitted a winning proposal to have Albert Lea be the launch and endpoint on the Nation of Patriots Tour, a national motorcycle run that gathers financial support for disabled veterans and their families.

The 2026 tour schedule is not out, but it typically begins in mid-May. A flag is carried on the back of a motorcycle through all the states, spanning 15,000 miles in 115 days.

According to the Albert Lea Tribune, Nation of Patriots Executive Director Bill Sherer said each year, the organization invites a new city from a new state to host the tour and put their own local pride and traditions on display for the nation to see.

Kickoff ceremonies are slated to be at Bergdale Harley-Davidson on the north side of Albert Lea near Interstate 90, next to two hotels, restaurants, gas stations and a grocery store. The ride concludes in September.

Scott Kallberg of the Glenville Legion Riders told the Tribune the chapter decided to give it a shot and apply for the honor, and when they were notified they had made it to the top three, they were blown away with excitement. The organization’s selection committee interviewed the three finalists about their plans and selected the Albert Lea proposal.