More than 500 Harley-Davidson motorcycles from all over the country were brought to the first China-Mashan Mountain International Motorcycle Culture Festival in Mashan of Wuxi from Nov 10 to 13. [Photo/sohu.com]

Riders from 42 motorcycle clubs across the country donned their helmets and leathers, revved their engines, and set off for a cruise around Taihu Lake recently.

More than 500 bikers brought their Harley Davidsons and tricked-out choppers to the first China-Mashan Mountain International Motorcycle Culture Festival which was held in Mashan town of Wuxi, Jiangsu province from Nov 10 to 13.

The motorcycle clubs hailed from Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou and were joined by Wuxi's own Jiangyin Harley Motorcade. Members of each club distinguish themselves with their unique patches, uniforms, leather jackets and customized rides.

The thrill of riding motorcycles is something shared by many a freedom-seeker, especially Harley Davidson enthusiasts who will fork out at least 500,000 yuan ($75,000) for the American marque.

"Every man should dream of owning a Harley," said Xu Jianke, a motorcycle club member from Wenzhou, Zhejiang province.

The train of riders set off from Longtou Zhu with the wind in the faces and the beauty of Mashan and Taihu Lake in their purview.

The China-Mashan Mountain International Motorcycle Culture Festival is designed to be an annual festival for visitors to experience the charm of motorcycles and beautiful Wuxi.