Police said they worked with the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office and other law enforcement agencies during the event.

Even so, the event plays host to legions of biking hobbyists and nonviolent clubs who could see their annual get-together evaporate, taken over by unwelcome groups. For city businesses, the after-Labor Day event brings thousands of potential customers to the shore town when it otherwise starts to empty out.

Should the city decide the rally is not in its best interest, it can deny the permit application, Byron said. But that has no bearing on bikers choosing to congregate in town on their own.

Employees at accommodations near Rio Grande and Atlantic avenues said their guests every year have been largely peaceful.

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“The gentlemen and ladies are always polite, friendly. They like staying here,” said Bob Schuler, front desk manager at the StarLux Hotel. “It’s definitely good for business here.”

Schuler said the event is always preempted by increased police presence. The only issue it’s ever caused for him is noise.

“It’s loud,” he said, laughing. “I’m a resident also. I live two blocks away, so for me, it’s loud.”