Milwaukee’s first official Pride Ride – called "Ride With Pride!" – will take place next month during Pride Weekend.

Cormac Kehoe and Michail Takach, the executive director of PrideFest, are the organizers.

"PrideFest wanted a big new event. Something to shake the city. Motorcycle rides do that," says Kehoe. "Motorcycles feel like freedom, strength and independence, which are the values that PrideFest shares."

The ride will begin on Saturday, June 9 at 11 a.m. sharp at the Harley-Davidson Museum, 400 W. Canal St. Riders are encouraged to convene in the museum parking lot starting at 10 a.m. The group will then ride to the Estabrook Beer Garden and finally to PrideFest on the Summerfest grounds. The ride will last approximately two hours.

"Ride With Pride!" is free and every rider will receive a complimentary ticket to PrideFest.

"So it’s not just free. We’re paying you to ride, I guess," says Kehoe.

Riders do not have to pre-register or sign up – rather just show up for the event. However, Kehoe recommends riders go to the Facebook event page and click "going" so they can estimate the number of PrideFest tickets needed.

Kehoe has a history of organizing group motorcycle rides including one where all of the bikers dressed as nuns. "Yes, I have lead a horde of bearded chopper thugs who were dressed as nuns," he says.

Inclusiveness is an extremely importance aspect of the ride and all moto enthusiasts are invited.

"We want EVERYONE to come join the ride. Wear your regular riding gear. Please don’t think ‘I don’t have a rainbow flag on my jacket, I shouldn’t crash this party.’ Really, just come to the ride," says Kehoe. "Oh and go to PrideFest, that’s the REAL party."

The Harley-Dvidson Museum will also host a unity themed pre-party on the evening of Thursday, June 7 that will feature bands, food, drink and, of course, bikes.