-->Since the first Harley Davidson rolled into Pattaya in the 50s, this east coast resort town has always been a favorite spot to park a bike and break out some beers. Consequently, it was inevitable that the Pattaya Bike Week would become the largest Thailand motorcycle event.Today’s bikers are a far cry from rear-guard Hells Angels riding off into the sunset in a Hollywood movie. Southeast Asia’s vast community of bikers are more likely to be handing out balloons and gifts at a children’s hospital than burning up tarmac in search of a rumble with authorities.Pattaya’s efforts to shed its 60s nightlife image and transform itself into a family and fun destination have been energized by special events, particularly those that are related to sports and entertainment, such as the Pattaya Bike Week. Past events during the epic Thailand motorcycle festival have featured such activities as a bikers’ reunion, which drew a record turn-out of enthusiasts from Thailand and neighboring countries in 2009. Pattaya City, Burapha Motorcycle Club, and Tourism Authority of Thailand Pattaya Office are backing the second “Pattaya Bike Week 2010” hosting events at the resort’s sports stadium on Soi Chaiyapruk 2 off Sukhumvit Road, just 2 km inland from the beach.If you need to have to a reason to entice bikers to gather at the beach then it is all about promoting tourism and safety. Bikers and their families need no encouragement. They love riding in a convoy, polishing chrome, and chatting with biking colleagues while exchanging notes on their epic journeys.Epic they are, as some club members will ride their 1,000 cc bikes from Malaysia and Singapore, clocking up more than 3,000 km to enjoy this gig.The fun starts with a street party on Jomthien Soi 4, featuring country western music and jam sessions with popular singers. On the following day, the event moves to the grounds of Pattaya’s Indoor sports stadium on Soi Chaiyapruk, off Sukhumvit Road. The event will feature bands, dozens of stalls displaying food, clothing, bike gear and booths displaying custom motorcycles, plus the entire range of 09 Harley Davidsons. Displays of Paramotors, a Wild West show, American Car Display, Fire Show and classic motorcycles are also featured on the last day’s agenda. The grand finale highlights a parade of motorcycles around Pattaya at noon, followed by an evening of Western and Thai rock music culminating in a performance from Thailand’s popular Carabao band.In past years the event has attracted over 30,000 participants and over 10,000 motorcycles, including international bike club members from over 20 countries.