The sights, sounds and aromas of the Fire and Ice Bike Rally almost overwhelm the visitor as he travels the few blocks of Santa Fe Avenue hosting the event.

Colors abounded from the shiny paint jobs on the motorcycles to the intense fruit shades of the shaved ice cups to the vibrant tee shirts being hawked by vendors. Equally striking were the leathers and “road clothes” of the bikers as they strutted their stuff at the Budweiser Tent.

Ten-year-old Randy Chavez examined one bike after another at the parking area along Santa Fe Avenue “I love how these guys paint designs on their bikes and make them look unique,” he said. “I want to save money so I can buy my own motorcycle when I'm old enough,” he said.

The custom bike show at Dancing Eagle Casino on July 19 took the creative aspects of bike design to new heights, featuring colors and patterns not usually seen on the street.

The roar of engines and the bass of the live bands provided the auditory backdrop for the event. The classic rock sounds of the featured band, “Lit Up,” wafted over the event area on July 17, setting the music mood for the weekend. They were followed on July 18 by featured band, “Dokken,” an '80s rock cover band from Phoenix, Ariz.

The auditory feast was complemented by a myriad of other bands in the Budweiser Tent, including Brain Freezz, Shit Happens, Missing Stateside, No Quarter and Undiskcovered.

“I just love these bands that play in the tent,” raved Tom “Cougar” Stapleton from Boise, Idaho. His companion, Sally Frank, said she preferred the more mellow bands. “We came all the way from Idaho for this rally because it's so down home and friendly. The music is just icing on the cake,” she said.

Local bands held their own at the Gazebo, where regional fans gathered to hear their favorites. “I really like this band because they seem so genuine,” said Katie Fenton of Missouri as “No Quarter” played. The band is a Zuni Mountain ensemble, who have garnered a local following. “Amigos West” also revved up the Gazebo crowd with their Latin flavored tunes.

Melanie Alcott of Flagstaff, Ariz., spoke of her biker life as she tapped her foot to the rhythm. “I'm one of those new kind of bikers…a woman who has her own bike and usually rides alone. That way I can go where I want and control the route and the destination. I can also choose the music venue I like and right now I'm really enjoying these local groups,” she explained.

On Sunday, the mood changed to gospel music by Tim Martin and Friends, a Christian rock and blues band, who played the featured spot. “This is the day that the locals come out to enjoy the music and the Biker Baby Contest,” said Karen Gonzales of Milan. “We enjoy the slower pace, the lack of alcohol and the chance to visit with our neighbors.”

Although the sights and sounds were impressive, the aromas from the vendors' booths were another draw. The fragrances of pizza, corn dogs, enchiladas and grilled meat filled the air.

The Bike Rally is a benefit for the community in both financial and public relations aspects. When people from out of town discover the physical beauty and friendliness of Cibola County, they are likely to return.