sturgis | Trademark dispute revs up over "Sturgis"

STURGIS, S.D. - A federal judge has denied a request by a Rapid City merchandise vendor to sell products bearing the word "Sturgis" at this year's motorcycle rally in the western South Dakota town.

Rushmore Photo and Gifts is in a legal battle with Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Inc., which owns the trademark for "Sturgis" and accuses Rushmore Photo of profiting from the rally without its permission.

Rushmore Photo contends Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is overstepping its rights, and asked U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Viken for permission to sell products with the word "Sturgis" at the rally that starts Monday.

The Rapid City Journal reports that after seven hours of testimony, Viken declined, meaning only officially licensed merchandise will be available at the rally.

The rally draws hundreds of thousands of people each year.