I agree the northern route would be more interesting. Heck Chicago to Sturgis is only 15 hours. If you google Chicago to Sturgis there is plenty of information. Even if you don't go all the way there it would be a nice trip. People along the route are good at serving bikers. You could do 2 or 3 days and not get half way there.
Depends when you are coming. When bike week gets close you will pay a premium for everything.
Just don't go too far north those Canadians can get wild.
