The organizers of two rally competitions have agreed to settle a trademark dispute over the term ‘Sturgis.’
Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Inc. (SMRI) was at loggerheads with the Kentucky-based Little Sturgis Rally, but the latter has announced plans to change its corporate and trading names.
The event will be known henceforth as the Kentucky Bikerfest to avoid any confusion with SMRI.
Dean Kinney, chairman of SMRI, welcomed the court ruling that its trademark rights should be protected.
“Our organization is charged with promoting and enhancing the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally while providing a charitable return for the greater Sturgis area,” he stated.
“Part of that responsibility is to protect the intellectual property of SMRI from unauthorized use, infringement and counterfeit goods and services.