• Motorcycle rallies in New Mexico aren't just for fun; many raise funds for disadvantaged youths.motorcycles image by Artur Blaszak from Fotolia.com
  
  New Mexico, the Land of Enchantment, comprises six regions, each with its own culture and character. The state is known for its 25 scenic byways, ideal for motorcycle enthusiasts. Each year, many bikers who call New Mexico home or enjoy riding there organize rallies; some are just for camaraderie, others give back to the communities they enjoy.
  
  

Golden Aspen Motorcycle Rally, Ruidoso

• This event was started in 1971 and is now one of New Mexico's premier rallies. The rally takes place at the Ruidoso Downs sport and theater complex. It includes poker runs, a bike show, a motorcycle trade show and hill climbing competitions. In 2010 the event featured over 150 vendors, food and beverage stands, coronation of an event queen and king, and non-denominational worship services each day.
  
  Ruidoso Downs Sports and Theater Complex
  
  Ruidoso Convention Center
  
  111 Sierra Blanca Drive
  
  Ruidoso, NM 88345
  
  877-700-5445
  
  motorcyclerallyruidoso.com
  
  

Rabbit Ear Run, Clayton

• This event raises funds for scholarships and includes everything from bull riding to a bike rodeo. A true festival for bikers, it features a poker run and tournament, food, carnival games and live music. The rally ride loops up into Colorado and back. Funds raised during the event go to the Clayton student community.
  
  Northeast New Mexico Detention Facility
  
  185 Dr. Michael Jenkins Road
  
  Clayton, NM 88415
  
  575-374-4005
  
  rabbitearrun.com
  
  

Pojoaque Boys and Girls Club Halloween Christmas Toy Run, Santa Fe

• This annual motorcycle ride is enjoyed by bikers who collect and distribute toys to underprivileged children for the holidays. It features raffles, door prizes, food, live music and costume contests. The rally ride goes from Santa Fe to the Buffalo Thunder Resort and Casino and back.
  
  Pueblo of Pojoaque Boys and Girls Club
  
  101A Lightning Loop
  
  Santa Fe, NM 87506
  
  505-455-3659
  
  ppbgc.org
  
  

New Mexico Bikers for Babies, Albuquerque

• This ride begins at Rich Ford on Lomas Boulevard Northeast and finishes at the Hard Rock Casino and Resort. The resort hosts social and fund-raising activities for the March of Dimes programs and research related to premature birth, prenatal care and community health programs. Each year the rally riders are led by a regional celebrity rider.
  
  March of Dimes, New Mexico Chapter
  
  7007 Wyoming Blvd. NE, Suite E-2
  
  Albuquerque, NM 87109
  
  505-344-5150
  
  marchofdimes.com