Motorcycle Store Relocation in Brooklyn Sparks Controversy

A Brooklyn city council member has taken credit for the upcoming closure of a motorcycle shop known for its wild parties. The owner, Bobby Seeger, however, asserts that the council member, referred to as “little boy” Paul, misunderstands the situation.

Seeger, who owns the Indian Rally Pig Shop, stated that he is relocating only because he sold the building that houses his store. He plans to move to a new spot in Williamsburg, just a couple of blocks away.

“It’s never going to go away. We’re going to relocate,” Seeger remarked about his business, which honors the late stunt rider and motorcycle builder Larry De Smet.

Addressing critics, Seeger said, “What are you going to do? Dance, tap, cry?” He wasn’t too concerned about the negative attention.

Council member Ressler announced through his newsletter and social media that the Indian Rally would vacate its location at North 15th Street and Wythe Avenue in January. This was perceived as a victory for some Williamsburg residents who have expressed discontent with the shop’s annual street party.

Last September, the event attracted around 5,000 bikers, including members of the Hells Angels, and has been held annually since De Smet passed away in 2007 after a dangerous motorcycle stunt.

Ressler argued that the Indian Rally Bike Block Party has caused considerable disruptions in Greenpoint, affecting local roads and businesses. He emphasized the importance of holding block parties in a way that’s respectful to the community.

Following feedback from the community, Ressler proclaimed that the Indian Rally would cease operations at its current location, assuring residents that the event would no longer take place in Greenpoint.

In response, Seeger told the Post that Ressler had no influence over the lease situation. The building’s owner supported Seeger’s statement, explaining that the decision stemmed from financial issues faced by the property owners.

“They were losing money,” said Paul Eisenberg, the building manager. “Block parties were never a problem.”

Seeger noted that after this year’s event, Ressler emailed him, claiming the Indian Rally had “destroyed the neighborhood.” Seeger dismissed the accusation, stating, “He’s never been here. I just marked it as read.”

“He’s a kid who’s never worked,” Seeger added about Ressler, emphasizing that he sees the council member as inexperienced.

“For him to take credit for my lease situation? That’s cute,” Seeger said, acknowledging Ressler’s efforts while also downplaying them.

Despite the challenges, Seeger assured that the Indian Rally and its associated block party would continue, emphasizing that no significant incidents were reported during the most recent event, aside from a couple of noise complaints.

Much of the criticism directed at the “Bike Day” appears to come from online sources, with complaints often focusing on loud music and accusations of the participants’ behavior.

Once a highly energetic gathering featuring Hells Angels, the event has shifted over the years into a fundraiser, especially after Seeger’s son died in 2012 from a neurological condition.

Ressler did not provide any comment regarding the matter when approached.

The store is set to relocate in January, although Indian Rally has been a fixture in Brooklyn since 2001, moving between various locations during that time.

“Why move? We’re here,” Seeger stated. “It might not be this block, but it will be another block.”