It depends
For us (Jacque and myself) Spyderfest was an opportunity to return to Springfield, where both of us lived 40 years ago. We spent the majority of our time riding "memory lane" around town, seeing friends, and doing our own rides in the Ozarks. We are staying in an airbnb, and very happy with our place. As I write this we are still here and will be riding to Eureka Springs, AR today. We intend to head back to AZ on Thursday. It was a three day ride here, and I suspect it will be a three day ride home. We have both loved our time here.
As for event cost, I'd give it a 5 out of 5 as I think the preregistration fee was $35, and that included a $25 credit for clothing. That does not give the host enough dollars to put on a 4 day event. For me it was cheap and I'd gladly pay more for a more fully organized event.
For Spyderfest as an event I'd probably give it a 3 out of 5 as it was okay. The organized rides did not interest us and most of the minimal set of events were okay. The events at the dealership had so many people that there we no place to sit down. We liked meeting other riders and seeing the bikes, but got tired of standing up all of the time. The last evening was a zoo. I heard it estimated that there were 1200 people there. They did not handle the volume of people very well. I hope they learn from this event and improve it for next time.
For weather I'd give it a 5 out of 5. I've heard that rain and cold has been a problem in the past. Not this time.
As an opportunity to get items for our bikes I'd give it a 5 out of 5 as I got Elka shocks and sheepskins for my RT. Jacque got Lamonster's new gas cap, fog lights, and sheepskins for her F3S. Expensive, but stuff we really wanted. It was nice getting to know folks at Lamonster Garage (Lamont, Jason, etc), the Elka rep, and the wonderful couple that owns Misty Mountain Sheepskins.
For seeing old friends and locations I'd give it a 10 out of 5 as this was really the highlight.
For a 3 day ride from AZ to MO I found it tough. No rain, thank goodness, but the wind wore me out. I'm hoping for less wind and dry going home. Hopefully I'll see the benefits of the Elka's as well. We'll see.
I don't know if Pitbull people only put this all together or if there is a a group of additional folks that help arrange everything. This is a big enough deal that doing this as a dealer only event has got to be tough. Personally I can envision a phenomenal event if it were organized as an event in partnership with the area and beyond the dealership alone. However, this would take a strong leader, committed people, and likely a larger entrance fee.
Rob
Curious how would those of you that have attended other Spyderfest in the past rate this year's. From a 1 to 5, 5 being the the best. No explanation s needed if you don't want. Sorry ours is a 2