In 1936-37 Dallas had completed its first divided highway which would then be named for the state highway commissioner of the time, Harry Hines. As a result of the project, motels and other businesses would spring up along the route to cater to motorists making their way through Dallas. However, in later years as new highways began to be built Harry Hines, like so many early highways around the nation, was left for dead. The failing infrastructure gave way to warehouses being erected and the once glimmering motels that welcomed weary travelers now play host to more seedy types. However, in a small section of the ole highway lies a diamond in the rough, Strokers Dallas.
Founded by Rick Fairless, a chopper legend, Strokers is a one-stop shop for bikers. And that idiom is not used lightly, Strokers offers: food, drinks, motorcycle sales, a motorcycle repair shop and a tattoo parlor. Strokers Ice House is the bar portion which serves up cold drinks and hot eats at low prices, with specials throughout the day every day from $1 drafts to 50¢ wings. The ambiance is what you would expect of a classic bar with walls covered in memorabilia of brands who have since seen a logo change, or two, and pool tables and shuffleboard to keep you busy. If opting for fresh air, live music or to just stay nearer your bike (they can see over 500 bikes on weekends) then outback of the Ice House is for you.
With an outside music stage, multiple places to pick up beers and a rooftop area Strokers offers plenty of opportunities to take in the sunshine, sights and sounds. Though the pièce de résistance is without a doubt the tour bus once belonging to the Grateful Dead, unfortunately for most the only glimpse of the interior they will get is through the old glass windows. And if that inspires you to get some marching bear tattoos you can do that too just a few hundred feet away.
Additionally, on the 2.5 acres, Strokers has a full repair shop which is open to the public and houses some amazing classic and custom bikes. Don’t yet have a hog of your own? Next door is the retail store for Strokers merchandise and motorcycles. Needless to say Strokers and motorcycles are intertwined, but according to Rick it is a place for all, “everybody is the same no matter if on a Harley or Honda or took the bus.”
Monkeying Around is a series that will bring you Gas Monkey Garage’s take on bars, restaurants, events and things to do, not just in our home city of Dallas, but around the nation.
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