Americade was all that I hoped for, and more. I had an even better time than I anticipated, and I will definitely be doing it again next year.
I went up with the expectation of doing a lot of solo riding around the area (Adirondacks, Vermont, maybe out to New Hampshire, etc), but found the whole Lake George scene too overwhelming to leave. I got one long ride in on Saturday after Americade officially ended, but that's it.
Some of the best parts? Just being around thousands of other riders was fantastic, and seeing all the support from the town. The whole experience at Roaring Brook Ranch, with the demos, lectures, and meeting folks was great. Riding my bike into The Great Escape amusement park and parking right next to the Comet was a treat for this rollercoaster enthusiast. The parade was, for some reason I can't put my finger on, pretty cool to be in.
For next year, I'll probably do some things differently. I'm not 100% sure I want to camp again, as the temperature differences were pretty extreme and the shower situation was not exactly terrific. I might look into staying right at Roaring Brook. Right in the middle of most of the activities, but most likely way quieter at night than any motel on Canada Street.
It would be nice to go up with some friends for at least part of the week, but if not I'll go it alone again. It forces me to be more outgoing and initiate conversations with people, which is probably a good thing.
I'll skip the boat ride next time, unless I'm there with friends who want to do it. I'll do the parade again, but skip the "living logo" on Prospect Mountain. Certainly do the Great Escape dinner again. Would I do another organized tour again, like the Whiteface Mountain ride? I'm leaning towards no, but perhaps I'll try the Vermont one. I think doing some of their non-guided tours would be more fun next time, or just exploring the region like I thought I would do this time out.
I'll also set aside at least a day and a half just for demo rides. One morning I could probably ride at least 5 or 6 different Harleys - maybe I could find that one that really speaks to me. Maybe I'll get lucky and Guzzi, KTM and/or Ducati will be up there next year.
In summary, it was a fantastic bike trip, much better than I imagined.