But among the bikers in the Pentagon Sunday morning, many said they would welcome a campaign. “I think its fantastic,” said Richard Oldham, 71, who rode his motorcycle from Battle Creek, Mich. “She’s a supporter of the armed forces. She’s a patriot.”

Doug Ludlow, 61, who rode with Mr. Oldham from Battle Creek, said other bikers would agree. “This lot is full of American patriots,” he said. “Palin is an American patriot.”

But others said they did not believe she would run for president. And some said they did not want her to run. Ron Kubowicz, 61, who rode from Scranton, Pa., said he would not vote for her.

“I don’t think she’s qualified,” he said.