Primesc des întrebări pe această temă și voi aduna aici traducerile existente ale unor texte de pe site-ul RC vs MC. Ele au apărut pe un forum, dar acolo nu sunt la un loc. Am menționat utilizatorii care au tradus și sursele.

I. Ce este un Club de Motociclism (M.C.)

Dacă motocicletele îți influențează stilul de viață, atunci, invariabil, faci parte și dintr-o comunitate de motocicliști. Între toate tipurile de organizații existente în această comunitate, “clubul” este cel care iese cel mai puternic în evidență și totodată și cel care are cea mai mare importanță. Un M.C. (Club de Motociclism) este de regulă respectat pentru unul din următoarele motive:

• Cei în cunoștință de cauză recunosc nivelul profund de implicare și autodisciplină de care o persoană trebuie să dea dovadă în mod constant, astfel încât să fie demnă de a purta patch-ul (broderia, emblema) clubului, nivel care devine uneori o a doua natură (slujbă) pentru individul în cauză. Această persoană înțelege/știe faptul că simbolul, culorile clubului sunt păzite cu mare strictețe de către membri și că a deveni membrul unui club este un proces lung și dificil. Lăsând restul la o parte, oricine trebuie să respecte o persoană pentru tot ce a realizat devenind aptă să dețină și să poarte patch-ul pe care îl are, indiferent de club.
• Cei mai puțin informați privesc numai suprafața lucrurilor. Ei văd vigilența și suportul pe care și-l acordă reciproc membrii unui club. Văd pericolul potențial al provocării unei reacții de la un grup bine organizat care călătorește într-un număr însemnat și este pregătit pentru orice situație. Ei știu că NIMENI NU POATE PROVOCA UN MEMBRU AL UNUI CLUB FĂRĂ CA APOI SĂ TREBUIASCĂ SĂ RĂSPUNDĂ ÎNTREGULUI CLUB și că un astfel de răspuns trebuie dat către toți membrii clubului, până la ultimul. Acest tip de respect este unul născut din frică.

Un MC serios se va conduce public într-o manieră profesională. Ei nu vor căuta să cauzeze situații de scandal, nici nu se vor prezenta ca o forță de intimidare, în afara situațiilor care impun acest lucru. Respectul este câștigat de un MC serios prin ambele modalități prezentate mai sus.

Există multe cluburi mai mici formate dintr-un număr redus de persoane. Fără o continuă manifestare a forței lor, aceste cluburi nu vor primi respect. Majoritatea acestor tipuri de club au o durată de viață mică, dar publicul general nu va face distincție între diferitele culori, embleme. Așadar, trebuie înțeles că în cazul în care un club cauzează o problemă care implică sectorul public, identitatea clubului este cel mai adesea ignorată sau pierdută, iar imaginea negativă se va răspândi asupra tuturor cluburilor (a motocicliștilor în general – n.t.). Ca rezultat direct al acestui lucru, în interiorul unei comunități de motocicliști există tendința cluburilor de a acționa între ele ca și o forță de poliție a motociclismului.

De asemenea, există o ierarhie naturală care este recunoscută între însuși cluburile de motociclism. Cel mai puternic și stabil club va fi cel dominant (într-un stat – în original, într-un județ/oras – prin analogie în cazul României) și totodată și cel care va avea grijă de următoarele aspecte:

• va autoriza stabilirea de noi cluburi în alte state (județe/orașe).
• va forța desființarea cluburilor care cauzează probleme continue.
• va acționa ca mediator între problemele cluburilor mai mici.
• va forța acționarea într-o anumită direcție, în cazul în care părțile nu ajung la un compromis.
• va furniza informații privind evenimentele dintre cluburi.
• va cere suportul altor cluburi atunci când acesta este necesitat.

De asemenea, se obișnuiește ca un club dominant dintr-o zonă să selecteze “prospecții” (viitorii înscriși în club) dintre membrii de vârf ai altor cluburi. De fapt, unele dintre cluburi sunt stabilite tocmai cu acest scop.

În cazul în care nu există un club dominant, asumându-și poziția de conducere, cresc șansele ca toate cluburile să nu se poată bucura de luxul de a folosi resursele proprii de timp și bani în folosul fiecărui membru. Nici nu s-ar bucura de mobilitatea și libertatea de mișcare care apare odată cu pacea și ordinea.

În interiorul unui MC, “ofițerii” (conducerea) sunt cei aleși pe următoarele posturi tradiționale: Președinte, Vicepreședinte, Secretar, Casier, Sergent. În plus, pot apărea posturi mai puțin tradiționale cum ar fi “Căpitan de drum”, “Aripă”, Tactician. Căpitanul de drum este responsabil cu logistica și toate cele necesare pentru ca întregul club să ajungă din punctul A în punctul B. “Aripa” răspunde numai președintelui și se asigură că ordinele acestuia sunt duse la îndeplinire. De asemenea, el va fi cel care va călători în afara grupului în cazul în care o problemă necesită acest lucru. Tacticianul este cel însărcinat cu tactica și strategia în situațiile tensionate. În anumite cazuri, el este cel care se ocupă de problemele de securitate ale clubului. În cele mai multe cluburi, pozițiile de tactician și cea de “aripă” sunt combinate și pot avea numai un singur titlu (unul dintre cele două).

De regulă, cel care poartă patch-ul a fost cineva care a stat în jurul clubului cel puțin un an. Înainte de aceasta, era cunoscut de multă vreme și atitudinea și comportamentul lor erau bine cunoscute. Apoi, a fost prospectat pentru înscrierea în club cu cel puțin un an sau doi înainte de a primi ‘patch-ul’ (emblema).

Pentru membrul purtător al emblemei unui club, loialitatea și devotamentul față de bunăstarea clubului sunt cele mai importante lucruri, înaintea familiei, prietenilor, slujbei, bunurilor personale și chiar a siguranței personale. Nu există niciodată, repet NICIODATĂ, vreo îndoială referitoare la ordinea importanței acestora. Singurul lucru care se apropie cumva de devotamentul față de club este devotamentul față de frații și surorile din club. Dar chiar și aici, interesul clubului este întotdeauna prioritar interesului individual. Ei trebuie să știe că familia îi poate renega, că își pot pierde slujba peste noapte, iar prietenii apropiați vin și pleacă tot timpul. Dar clubul și frații sau surorile lor din club vor fi întotdeauna acolo pentru ei. Este unul din puținele, dacă nu chiar unicul lucru pe care pot conta. Membrii știu acest lucru deoarece ei înșiși sunt devotați și vor da întotdeauna dovadă de același comportament.

Pentru a fi siguri că această etică și standard de atitudine vor fi adoptate de noii membri, aceștia vor participa la toate acțiunile obligatorii, la toate acțiunile educative și, uneori, vor ajuta chiar la selectarea și testarea noilor prospecti. Astfel, înainte ca ei să permită unei alte persoane să intre în club și să poarte culorile acestuia, ca simbol al devotamentului lor, vor fi siguri că noii membri aduc cu ei aceeași loialitate și dedicație ca și toți ceilalți.

Atitudinea celor care poartă emblema, referitoare la ceilalți, trebuie să fie de maniera următoare: Există frații și surorile, și există potențialele amenințări la adresa clubului. Din aceste motive, ei nu vor discuta afacerile interne ale clubului, numerele membrilor, mișcările clubului sau informații personale legate de frații și surorile din club cu cei aflați în afara clubului. Orice informație care ar putea fi folosită de cineva pentru a crea o imagine anume a clubului reprezintă o gravă problemă de securitate.

Purtatul emblemei înseamnă mai mult decât distracție în grup în vremurile bune. Înseamnă uniune în momentele grele. Înseamnă multă muncă. Înseamnă dedicare către un stil de viață în care prima grijă este nu cum poți fi ajutat de frații tăi, ci cum îi poți ajuta. Întotdeauna cauți să dai, nu să primești.

Acest lucru ar putea părea idealist multora dintre voi, și în multe cazuri chiar este. Dar este un ideal pe care toate cluburile îl învață și se străduiesc să îl perpetueze în principiu și practică.

În încheiere, trebuie să fiți conștienți de o anumită “regulă de aur” a comportamentului pe care trebuie să o aplicați atunci când călătoriți împreună cu ceilalți.

“Dacă acorzi respect, vei primi respect. Dacă te comporți ca un nesimțit, vei fi tratat ca un nesimțit!”

[traducere user Leviathan de pe motociclism ro]

II – 1%er(percenter)/101 outlaw clubs

Lumea “bikerilor” a fost a mea aproape 35 de ani, de la hardcore 1%ers până la noile și îmbunătățitele “riding clubs”. Am văzut și am întâlnit cam tot ce se poate vedea într-un film. Să fii informat asupra unui element pe care l-ai putea întâlni este de mare importanță pentru securitatea ta. Ai învățat ce părți ale orașului să le eviți fie că ți-a spus cineva fie că ai învățat pe pielea ta. Ai inteligența de a nu provoca un pitbull sau de a nu sta în mijlocul unui foc încrucișat. Ai învățat să conduci o motocicletă în siguranță și tot așa trebuie să înveți regulile lumii în care ai intrat. Acum, mulți dintre voi ați intrat în lumea biker-ilor sau a cluburilor și nu conștientizați problemele care vă pot privi și aveți nevoie de câteva sfaturi. Este sugestia mea să vă informați în această problemă pentru că informația înseamnă putere. Este greu de cuprins această cultură într-un articol, dar va ajuta.

Informația are scopul de a te educa în privința stilului de viață 1% și nu de a te speria. (Adu-ți aminte că nu e indicat să bârfești pe cineva sau un club pe email, grupuri, forumuri sau baruri). În primul rând, șansele să te întâlnești cu membri outlaws/1% sunt minime doar dacă nu frecventezi barurile sau locurile lor de întâlnire. Dar nu face nicio eroare, asta e cât se poate de real. Deoarece majoritatea cluburilor NU sunt outlaws, ei nu vor avea nicio treabă cu tine dacă stai în afara “treburilor” lor și respecți protocolul. Foarte rar apare o problemă la o întâlnire publică, dar acest lucru este posibil. Așa că să începem cu “rocker”-ul de care ai auzit. Rocker-ul are forma unei semilune (semicerc, aș spune eu). Dacă te gândești bine, sigur ai văzut poze Hells Angels și ai observat emblemele arcuite deasupra și dedesubtul emblemei centrale (patch-uri). Emblema centrală și emblema 1% în formă de diamant vor fi vizibile și pe revere și vor fi numite “culorile” clubului. Există de asemenea și numeroase alte embleme purtate, dar acestea au o semnificație anume doar pentru clubul respectiv.

Emblema 1% în formă de diamant este însemnul după care recunoști un 1%er. Este de obicei purtată pe umărul stâng, dar poate fi observată și în spatele culorilor. Ei de obicei călăresc Harley-uri alături de support clubs și outlaw clubs, dar asta e o altă poveste. După tipul de emblemă purtat, cluburile outlaws își dau seama de cine reclamă sau nu teritoriul. Teritoriul este o problemă majoră și cluburile se vor lupta sau se vor omorî dacă se va ajunge acolo. Este doar “afacere”. Emblema rocker sau bar style nu este acceptată de cluburile 1% decât dacă este aprobată de ele. Doar dacă un club poartă o emblemă rocker sau bar style nu înseamnă că este automat un outlaw club. Va trebui să înveți cine este cu cine.

Cum am spus, majoritatea cluburilor nu sunt “outlaw” și nu poartă embleme rocker deasupra și dedesubt. Ele pot avea o emblemă deasupra, dar dacă au și una dedesubt, aceasta nu va fi inscripționată cu numele statului, orașului sau regiunii, ci de cele mai multe ori cu numele sau porecla respectivului. De exemplu, orice club în Texas care nu este afiliat Bandidos nu poate purta emblema Texas pe spate. Ei au forțat chiar unele cluburi ale poliției să scoată Texas rocker-ul. De asemenea, 99% din support clubs nu pot purta această emblemă. Bandidos cer acest drept ca MC (motorcycle club) și vor deveni agresivi dacă vor observa că porți această emblemă fără a avea dreptul. Multe regiuni au un club dominant, un 1%, și aceleași reguli se aplică. Clubul Bandidos este dominant în Texas, ca și în multe alte state.

Outlaws bikers (a nu se confunda cu outlaws 1% motorcycle clubs) sunt de asemenea cluburi hardcore care nu poartă emblema 1%, dar au strânse legături cu membrii 1%. Aceștia includ de asemenea și 1% support clubs. Ținuta este importantă, ar fi haos dacă ai purta uniforma de “polițist”. Identificarea ta este necesară. Sigur vei intra în închisoare nefiind polițist, dar purtând o uniformă și purtându-te ca atare. Deci, privind pe partea cealaltă, nu vrei să fii luat drept ceea ce nu ești de dragul siguranței în toate aspectele vieții. Afișând o emblemă AMA (American Motorcycle Association) în față te va introduce în ochii outlaws ca nefiind o amenințare. 1%-ers au impus această emblemă la toate cluburile pentru că ei sau membrii cluburilor outlaw nu o poartă. Unele cluburi poartă această emblemă invers în semn de protest fiind forțați de 1%-eri să o poarte.

1%-ers și cluburile outlaw nu au nimic de-a face cu AMA și viceversa. NICIODATĂ nu vor purta sigla AMA. Termenul de 1%-er vine de la AMA. În anii ’60, AMA a catalogat Hells Angels și pe cei asemenea lor (“băieți răi”) ca fiind numai 1% din totalul motocicliștilor. Hells Angels au adaptat spusele lor și au devenit primul club exclusivist 1%. Orice alt club care încearcă să poarte acest însemn ar fi bine să poată răspunde rivalilor lor 1%-eri care vor încerca să îi desființeze. Termenul de “The Big Four” reprezintă cele mai numeroase și periculoase cluburi din lume: Bandidos înființat în 1966, Hells Angels în 1948, Outlaws în 1935 și Pagans în 1959. Bandidos sunt, la ora aceasta, clubul cu cea mai mare rată de dezvoltare în U.S.

Sunt sute de cluburi 1% mai mici, dar care pot fi periculoase la un nivel mai scăzut decât cele enumerate. Ca fapt divers, dacă sunteți în preajma unui club outlaw, puteți observa unii membri că se sărută pe buze. Acest lucru a început în anii ’60 când obișnuiau să șocheze asistența, acest lucru evoluând până astăzi ca simbol al strânselor legături și al frăției.

Pentru a deveni un 1%-er sau un outlaw nu este o sarcină ușoară. Nu mulți vor purta sigla 1% și numai bărbații pot deveni membri. Procesul de recrutare este mai mult decât pot duce mulți. Este metoda cluburilor de a evita pătrunderea unor neaveniți. Nu este o sarcină ușoară să găsești membri pentru un club, în special pentru un 1%. Un comentariu a fost făcut cum că riderii normali sunt în proporție de 50 la 1 față de outlaws. Asta este adevărat, dar gândiți-vă că în condiții normale cinci rideri “normali” nu sunt o problemă pentru un 1%-er. Dacă te legi de unul, te legi de toți. În zilele noastre, aceștia își exprimă cât mai clar intențiile înainte de a recurge la violență.

Cluburile rivale s-au omorât între ele pentru teritoriu sau alte lucruri care nu au nicio importanță pentru cetățeanul normal. Cluburile outlaw/1% de obicei păstrează violența în cercul lor. Doar dacă nu ești implicat cu ei sau ai o dorință de sinucidere provocându-i, violența ajunge foarte rar în publicul larg. Acest lucru este valabil și în ziua de azi. În ochii lor, declarația de război se ia ca atare: ultimul în viață e învingător, nimic mai puțin, fără excepții, fără reguli. Nu au nicio teamă de consecințe, ceea ce îi face atât de periculoși într-o confruntare. Închisoare, moarte – nu înseamnă nimic pentru ei, iar amenințările îi vor încuraja să atace.

Și întotdeauna aveți grijă la un 1% sau outlaw Prospect (membru aspirant). El va purta o emblemă “Prospect”, nu va avea emblema centrală sau va purta o brățară, aceste reguli stabilindu-se de fiecare club în parte. De la membrii sau de la aspiranți se așteaptă acțiuni și un comportament care să nu discrediteze sau să nu dezonoreze clubul când poartă dar nu în mod special ”culorile” sale. Aspiranții sunt cunoscuți ca provocatori de probleme. Recunoașterea este importantă pentru aspirant pentru a depăși acest stadiu. Dar recunoașterea “negativă” poate lucra împotriva sa. Structura lor este similară cu cea militară și foarte politică, aspiranții câștigând greu emblemele și le vor apăra până la moarte. Dacă un 1%-er sau un outlaw își pierde culorile, va face tot ce îi stă în putere să le recupereze. Și Dumnezeu să-l ajute pe cel care le are, mai ales dacă nu există un motiv pentru asta. Dacă sunt în posesia poliției, dacă e necesar, îi vor da în judecată pentru a le recupera. De obicei, poliția evită asta și le înapoiază imediat. Întotdeauna le vor recupera.

Până acum, elementele outlaw au fost “de capul lor”. Realitatea este că aceste cluburi nu sunt ca celelalte, este bine să admiți asta de la început. Outlaws sunt o societate în societate, cu reguli proprii, coduri de comportament și moduri proprii de a reacționa în lume. Este ca și cum ai construi un oraș într-o zonă pustie. Vei întâlni noi forme de viață pe care nu credeai că există aproape de tine până acum. Mulți dintre voi sunteți noi în lumea cluburilor și doar i-ați văzut. Creșterile vânzărilor de motociclete cu 52% în ultimii doi ani au adus la o creștere a numărului riderilor pe șosele, la rally-uri și pe internet. Mulți dintre aceștia nu au acordat atenție cluburilor 1% până nu au început să poarte diferite culori, așa cum au făcut 1%ers/outlaws încă de la începuturi. Este bine de știut că aceste cluburi au existat din anii ’30 alături de non-outlaw clubs cum ar fi Gipsy MC International înființat în 1932. De asemenea, a existat și un club al femeilor “Metermaids” care s-a înființat în 1931. “Boozefighters” s-a înființat în 1946. Fii cât se poate de răbdător și tolerant când ești interpelat de outlaws. RESPECTUL este tot ce așteaptă de la tine și nimic altceva.

[traducere user connex de pe motociclism ro]

III EMBLEMELE

Organizația AMA (American Motorcycle Association) a fost fondată în 1924 ca filială a Motorcycle Manufacturers și susținută de aceasta pentru promovarea motociclismului în America. Ei au autorizat grupurile de motocicliști din aceleași zone ca și Cluburi de motociclism. Unii dintre membrii acestor cluburi purtau echipament complet identic, cu numele clubului brodat pe spatele cămășilor și gecilor.

La diferite evenimente, AMA a acordat premii pentru „cel mai bine îmbrăcat club” iar acest lucru a condus la apariția emblemelor și a culorilor specifice fiecărui club.

În timpul unui eveniment din anul 1947, la Hollister, California, un membru al Booze Fighters MC a ajuns la știri cu o informație exagerată, și ulterior, datorită acestei știri, s-a luat hotărârea să se facă un film cu titlul „The Wild Ones” (Cei sălbatici). Organizația AMA a publicat în același timp un articol în revista proprie care poate fi rezumat la următoarea afirmație:

*99% din membrii cluburilor sunt cetățeni care respectă legea și numai 1% sunt outlaws (proscriși). Aceste momente au constituit începutul a ceea ce este astăzi cunoscut ca și cluburile „outlaw” sau cluburile celor 1%. Cluburilor neautorizate de AMA și non-membrilor AMA li s-a interzis participarea la evenimentele AMA.

Pentru a face distincție între ei și ceilalți, cluburile de outlaws și-au decupat emblema în trei bucăți/piese separate. Pe bucata de deasupra se afla numele clubului, în centru se afla emblema clubului, iar pe bucata de jos se afla înscrisă locația de unde proveneau. Aceste cluburi „outlaw” de motocicliști au organizat propriile evenimente și petreceri și au făcut lucruri opuse celor făcute de AMA. Nu existau premii pentru cel mai bine îmbrăcat club, își modificau motocicletele astfel încât acestea să meargă mai rapid și să arate diferit, mergeau cu eșapamentul tăiat, beau și făceau tot felul de lucruri „sălbatice”. Așa e istoria.

Termenul “culori” este folosit pentru a denumi setul de patches (cele trei menționate anterior). În cazul unui set de 3 piese, una este plasată deasupra bucății grafice aflate în centru și având dimensiunile cele mai mari, iar alta este plasată dedesubtul acesteia din urmă. Cele două bucăți de deasupra și de dedesubtul emblemei grafice au de regulă o formă curbată, iar cea de sus are inscripționat pe ea numele clubului, cea de jos având pe ea locația clubului. Cluburile de motociclism diferă de organizațiile de motociclism prin aceea că, în mod tradițional, “prospectarea” și acceptarea cuiva în club necesită timp, înainte ca membrii din grup să decidă dacă o persoană va fi sau nu acceptată în grup și i se va permite să poarte culorile. Cele mai multe “culori” ale diferitelor cluburi au de asemenea imprimat pe unul din patch-uri titlul de M/C, pentru a fi clar că e vorba de un club și nu de o organizație.

Multe din organizațiile naționale (e vorba de USA) au stabilit la începutul anilor ’80 să își unească cele trei piese într-un singur patch pentru a evita astfel orice confuzie sau asociere directă cu un club de motociclism sau o comunitate de cluburi. Un exemplu ar fi H.O.G. (Harley Owners Group – Grupul posesorilor de Harley) sau Blue Knights („Cavalerii albaștri” – Ofițeri de poliție).

Iată cum sunt recunoscute astăzi “culorile” cluburilor:

• Un patch dintr-o singură bucată poate semnifica în mod normal un club familial sau social de motociclism, atâta vreme cât este cunoscut/respectat de celelalte cluburi din zona respectivă.
• Un set din două piese (patch-uri) poate avea multe semnificații diferite, lucru acceptat atâta vreme cât această semnificație este cunoscută și respectă totodată celelalte cluburi din zona respectivă.
• Un set din trei piese desemnează de regulă un MC tradițional. Pe banda de sus se află inscripționat numele clubului, la mijloc se află emblema grafică a clubului, iar pe banda de dedesubt se află de regulă zona/teritoriul în care există clubul. Mai există și seturi de astfel de patch-uri în care pe banda de dedesubt se află inscripționat altceva decât zona, de regulă fiind scrisă o zicală. Un MC tradițional este acela care aderă la toate regulile și tradițiile locale stabilite în fiecare zonă. Există foarte puține excepții, dar regula este că un club (nou) trebuie aprobat de cel(ele) dominant(e) aflat(e) într-o anumită zonă. Clubul care are embleme dintr-un set de 3 piese (inclusiv cea cu locația) nu este în mod necesar și cel care domină acea zonă.

Emblema în formă de diamant cu “1%” sau “13” purtată împreună cu setul de 3 piese poate semnifica faptul că acel club este unul de tipul “1%” sau un club de support pentru un club de tipul 1% (dominant).

Un motociclist care nu aparține de niciun club nu are, de regulă, nicio parte dintr-o emblemă. Dacă este susținut de un membru al unui club, atunci el poate face parte din prospectul acelui club și poate purta un patch pe care să apară clar înscris “prospect”. În unele zone, inscripția “prospect” este la baza vestei, în altele în partea superioară (între umeri). Unele cluburi permit prospectilor să poarte inscripții cu numele clubului pe ele, dar nu și emblema. Există multe lucruri specifice fiecărui club. Fiecare club are propriile reguli legate de ceea ce poate să poarte un prospect. Numai dacă este aprobat ca membru în club, atunci i se permite să poarte emblema.

Inscriptia “Nomad”

Unele MC-uri dau dreptul unor membri să poarte inscripția “NOMAD”. Acest lucru se petrece în cazul în care acel membru întrunește anumite caracteristici specifice sensului de nomad.

1. Nomad – un membru al unui grup care nu are o locație fixă și care se deplasează în funcție de sezon dintr-un loc în altul.
2. O persoană care nu are o locație fixă, care călătorește, un rătăcitor.

Această inscripție este una aparte, pe care puțini o merită cu adevărat, și de aceea, este destul de greu acordată. Prin definiție, un “Nomad” poate fi cel care călătorește singur și are capacitatea să reprezinte, să se mențină și să supraviețuiască în condiții neobișnuite majorității.

[traducere user Leviathan de pe motociclism ro]

IV Reguli elementare ale cluburilor moto.

Clubul

Scopul acestui capitol este de a forma o imagine asupra structurii și mentalității unui club moto tradițional. Asta nu înseamnă în mod obligatoriu că exprimă trăirile și prioritățile unui anume club, deoarece toate cluburile au particularități diferite de la un anumit punct. Este important ca tu să înțelegi punctele de vedere ale altor cluburi cu care te poți întâlni din când în când.

Dacă motocicleta îți influențează modul de viață, atunci faci parte din comunitatea motocicliștilor. Din toate tipurile de organizații întâlnite în această comunitate, cluburile tradiționale au o imagine și un comportament aparte, fiind cele “mai înalte în rang”.

Respectul

Un club serios cere respect din cauza unui singur motiv: cei care sunt corect informați recunosc nivelul mare de implicare și disciplină de care un om trebuie să dea dovadă pentru a purta emblemele clubului. Ei realizează că procesul de aderare este lung și dificil, precum și faptul că “culorile” clubului sunt apărate cu strictețe.

De asemenea, respectul față de “patch holder” este dat de înțelegerea procesului de admitere și păstrare a emblemelor, născut în semn de recunoaștere a devotamentului și implicării. Cluburile moto tradiționale cer respect din acest motiv.

Acest lucru este cât se poate de adevărat atât timp cât se adresează persoanelor din afara comunității motociclistice. Acest segment al societății este de departe cel mai larg și reprezintă cea mai mare piață donatoare de fonduri într-o acțiune pe care clubul o poate face. De aceea, cluburile au interes de a dezvolta și păstra relațiile cu acești oameni. Dacă vei fi perceput ca un “biker scum” nu va fi bine pentru grupul din care faci parte. Scopul este de a fi admirat și respectat, nu de a răspândi teama în jurul tău. Cluburile serioase, atât membrii cât și invitații, întotdeauna se vor purta în public într-o manieră “profesională”.

“Culorile clubului”

Publicul general nu face nicio distincție între culorile diferitelor grupări. În multe cazuri, ei nu pot face diferența. Pentru ei, toți suntem “biker scums”. Dacă un club cauzează probleme și atinge “societatea civilă”, clubul respectiv este de obicei confundat sau ignorat, astfel că represaliile se vor răsfrânge și asupra celorlalte cluburi. Publicul larg nu face distincție între un MC, RC (Riding Club) sau un independent, de aceea fiecare trebuie să aibă grijă la comportamentul adoptat, pentru că acțiunile sale se vor răsfrânge asupra comunității motociclistice. MC-urile tind să contacteze poliția de bunăvoie pentru a evita astfel de incidente.

Comportament

Un “patch holder” nu va discuta niciodată problemele clubului, numărul de membri, ieșirile organizate și nu va da niciodată detalii private despre un membru al clubului către o altă persoană din afara grupului. Ei vor înțelege că sunt “patch holders” 24 de ore din 24, chiar dacă afișează sau nu emblemele clubului. Tot ce fac sau spun în public se poate răsfrânge asupra clubului. De asemenea, înțeleg că dacă depășesc această limită, pot fi admonestați pentru binele lor sau al clubului din care fac parte. Purtarea unei embleme înseamnă mai mult decât să te aduni cu ceilalți în vremuri bune. De asemenea, înseamnă să fii împreună și în vremuri mai rele. Asta înseamnă foarte multă muncă. Se implică într-un stil de viață în care nu caută ajutorul “fratilor” și “surorilor”, dar întotdeauna sunt acolo să îi ajute. Întotdeauna vor căuta să dea, decât să primească. Toate acestea pot suna idealist și în unele cazuri chiar poate fi așa. Dar este un ideal pe care toate cluburile încearcă să îl atingă în idei și în practică. Întotdeauna fii conștient de “Regula de aur” când te afli în medii motociclistice: dacă arăți respect, vei primi respect. Dacă nu vei afișa respect, vei fi tratat ca atare.

Niveluri de implicare

Când cineva își câștigă emblemele, nu înseamnă că și-a atins ultimul țel și din acel moment se poate “retrage”. Trecând de la invitat la prospect și apoi la patch holder nu este ca și cum ai urca un vârf. Mai degrabă este ca și cum ai urca o pantă constant, iar în timp să poți deveni mai puternic și mai implicat alături de “fratii” și “surorile” tale. Emblemele de prospect și cele care atestă apartenența la club sunt mai degrabă simboluri ale implicării și devotamentului demonstrat de-a lungul timpului. Cu cât un patch holder deține o poziție mai înaltă în club, cu atât trebuie să fie mai “frate” și mai “soră” cu toți.

Scopul Prospectării

Perioada de probă nu este o inițiere așa cum se întâmplă în “frății”. Este mai degrabă o perioadă în care acea persoană se ghidează în toate sensurile după cerințele impuse de situația în care ar fi patch holder. Este o perioadă în care:

• Atitudinea este condiționată de respectul pe care va trebui să-l arate față de patch holders, respect care va evolua în respectul față de grup.
• El/ea va fi educat(ă) în eticheta și protocolul cluburilor.
• El/ea va avea timp să se inițieze în obiceiuri elementare pentru o securitate și o comunicare bună.
• Va căpăta obiceiul de a se implica.
• Va deveni familiarizat(ă) cu obiceiul de a se încrede, uneori pe neștiute, în judecata unui patch holder care într-o zi îi va deveni “frate” sau “soră”.

Această listă ar putea continua, dar scopul este de a arăta că perioada de probă are obiective bine definite și o persoană nu va fi membră a unui club dacă nu-și va impune aceste cerințe. Nu este posibil să se facă o listă cu cerințele și atitudinile adresate unei persoane în toate cazurile. Nu există o formulă de succes, dar numitorul comun este atitudinea și respectul. Toate celelalte pot fi învățate în timp, dar atitudinea unei persoane vine din suflet.

VI. De ce clubul dominant controlează cine poartă patch-uri?

Mulți sunt impresionați de cât de “răi” pot fi unii oameni din aceste grupuri în toată lumea. Ei au tendința de a petrece timp împreună și de a forma grupuri, găști, cum vreți voi să le numiți. Ei pot reprezenta un real pericol în societatea noastră, unde poliția intervine după ce se petrece ceva. O duzină de “bad bikers” pot transforma viața “mamei și tatei” calare pe Goldwing într-un iad. De asemenea, niciun tânăr cu prietena sa nu poate fi în siguranță într-o zonă controlată de ei. Poliția nu poate face nimic. Ei nu pot aresta pe cineva pentru intenția de a face un lucru rău, doar pentru un lucru deja făcut. Singurii care îi pot ajuta pe “mama și tata” sau pe tânărul cu prietena sunt cluburile dominante, care, prin aranjamentele lor, îi pot ajuta să se deplaseze practic peste tot. Cluburile dominante sunt interesate ca lumea motociclistică să nu fie pusă într-o lumină negativă și ele nu au “restricția” de a acționa, așteptând ca un grup de “bad bikers” să comită ceva. Aceste aranjamente funcționează și nu le trebuie aprobarea sau cererea ta pentru asta. Se ia ca atare.

Motocicliștii nu sunt cele mai iubite cluburi din lume. Este o realitate. Poți să nu crezi asta, dar nu va schimba nimic din această imagine. Grupurile pe care le-am întâlnit înfruntă această imagine și includ oameni a căror “viață” este stilul de viață motociclist și nu motocicliști de weekend.

Trebuie subliniat că există o întreagă subcultură a societății noastre care a plătit prețul și continuă să-l plătească pentru stilul de viață pe care unii îl trăiesc și alții îl simulează. Este lumea lor și nu este diferită față de alte subculturi ce au existat în istoria noastră. A nega asta este o prostie. Este echivalentul distrugerii intenționate a unor obiceiuri tribale din Africa pe motiv că nu crezi în ele. Este echivalentul afișării drapelului rebel (Rebel Flag) în zone în care opresiunea a fost maximă sau a purtării unui tricou “Black Power” la o întrunire KKK (Ku Klux Klan).

Ca o concluzie, am întâlnit în viață ceva tipi “răi” în adevăratul sens al cuvântului și întotdeauna simțeau nevoia să arate cât de “răi” sunt… doar ca o observație, cei care se cred răi vor întâlni întotdeauna pe cineva cu un pumn mai mare, un cuțit mai lung sau un calibru mai mare.

Publicul în general nu poate spune ce bikeri le-au cauzat probleme și mulți dintre ei nu fac diferența dintre un MC și o asociație de rideri creștini. Toți poartă embleme și publicul larg nu dă doi bani pe ce spun acele embleme. Membrii MC a căror viață este lumea bikerilor sfârșesc prin a răspunde de comportamentul tuturor. O să dau câteva exemple din propria experiență.

Un club local cu vechime, nu un club outlaw, în aria pe care o frecventam în acea perioadă are un loc de întâlnire în care se țin o mulțime de evenimente. În timp, în jurul locului de întâlnire au apărut noi case, astfel că drumul ce ajungea la campground trecea prin câteva zone cu case. Imediat ce intrai pe acest drum erau semne care te avertizau să păstrezi viteza și nivelul sonor cât mai jos posibil. Am participat la trei-patru evenimente cu vechime în acel loc pe parcursul unui an. La niciunul nu au existat plângeri din partea vecinilor. După aceea, am participat la un eveniment Christian Biker în același loc. Doi sau trei membri noi, mândri de noul lor statut, au ținut neapărat să-și arate noile tobe zgomotoase și au sfârșit în biroul șerifului. Localnicilor nu le-a păsat de “cine” a făcut zgomotul, “au fost niște bikeri cu embleme”. Acest lucru a dăunat clubului cu vechime și invitaților lor pe o perioadă lungă, după ce, în timp, stabilise relații cordiale cu vecinii și poliția locală.

Exemple din viața reală

Un alt exemplu (o să schimb numele celor implicați):

Există un club local, să-l numim Airfoil Ridin’ Fools (sper că nu există un astfel de club), care într-un weekend a ajuns într-o zonă turistică locală. După ce au băut puțin mai mult, au început prin a insulta turiști pe stradă și au sfârșit prin a provoca o bătaie generală în barul local. În aceste condiții, oamenii de afaceri și localnicii nu au recunoscut membrii ARF ca fiind membrii 1%, dar știau că în orașul lor există un club 1% pe care oricum nu prea îi aveau la suflet și au arătat în direcția lor. Poliția locală știa faptul că nu au fost 1%-eri și cunoșteau specimenele din orașul alăturat, conștienți fiind de faptul că vor avea numeroase piedici în a-i incrimina pe cei vinovați din punct de vedere legal. Pe de altă parte, consiliul orășenesc cerea acțiune și poliția le-a dat satisfacție “prajind” câțiva 1%-eri și promițându-le că asta se va întâmpla de fiecare dată când o bandă de bikeri își va face de cap în oraș. În acest fel, “au pregătit scena” în care 1%-erii controlează cine și ce fel de patch-uri poartă pentru a nu mai putea fi trași la răspundere.

Realitatea din Lumea Bikerilor

Acestea sunt evenimente reale, lucruri similare petrecându-se în SUA și în lume. Asta este realitatea: oricine poartă emblema poate cauza probleme altei grupări și, în general, poliția se va lega de cei mai mari. Pentru că toată povestea este legată de bani. Pot primi fonduri federale dacă “altoiesc” câțiva bikeri clasificați ca gașcă, pe când “potolirea” unor ARF sau wannabees nu aduce niciun venit.

V. Membri RC vs MC

MC: Ce i se cere unui “prospect” (potențial membru)

• În calitate de “Prospect(at)”, străduiește-te să te comporți în permanență precum un “patchholder” responsabil.
• Întotdeauna să afișezi o atitudine pozitivă.
• Implică-te atât cât crezi tu de cuviință; apoi, implică-te și mai mult.
• Dacă vezi un membru pe care nu îl cunoști, ia inițiativa și du-te la el și prezintă-te drept “prospect + numele tău”.
• La toate adunările, fă-ți timp și “circulă” pe acolo, salută pe fiecare din membrii prezenți.
• Nu deveni prea prietenos cu cineva care nu e “de-al casei” sau o “cunoștință apropiată” celor din club. Dacă cineva din afara clubului are întrebări, îndrumă-i spre un membru “cu drepturi depline”. Niciodată să nu divulgi numele, numărul de telefon, adresa sau orice altă informație personală a unui membru unui non-membru.

RC: Ce i se cere unui membru RC

• În calitate de membru RC, străduiește-te să ai un comportament responsabil și “decent” astfel încât reputația clubului tău să nu aibă de suferit. Cu politețe și respect pentru orice individ cu care intri în contact, întotdeauna vei lăsa o impresie bună despre tine și despre motocicliști în general.
• Întotdeauna să afișezi o atitudine pozitivă.
• Implică-te atât cât îți place. Doar te-ai înscris în club pentru a “calări” și a cunoaște lumea nouă, cu aceleași pasiuni ca ale tale; dar atenție: “cât dai, atâta face”. Cu cât te implici mai mult și participi la întâlniri, vei cunoaște mai mulți oameni și te vei simți mai bine.
• E bine oricând să faci cunoștință cu alți membri ai clubului.
• Nu e niciodată un lucru rău să cunoști lume nouă.
• A fi membru într-un RC înseamnă și cunoașterea altor oameni. Răspunde unor eventuale întrebări atât cât poți. Dacă nu știi răspunsul la unele întrebări, îndrumă-l pe cel care întreabă către cine din club crezi tu că ar putea ști răspunsul. Nu da informații despre un membru sau altul, dacă nu știi sigur că acela ale cărui detalii personale (nr. telefon, nume, adresă, etc.) sunt cerute e de acord cu acest lucru. La urma urmei, e o chestiune de bun simț.

MC: Nu da niciodată detalii despre club unui outsider. Asta se referă și la locul “sediului” clubului, numărul de membri, etc. DAR nu se oprește aici.

RC: În general, RC-urile nu au nimic de ascuns. Dar, dacă totuși îți sunt cunoscute anumite aspecte care îi privesc doar pe cei din club, care sunt direct implicați, e bine să nu le dezvălui celor care nu sunt (implicați).

MC: Când te afli într-un loc public, întotdeauna poartă-te într-un fel care să poată fi asociat cu imaginea clubului din care (vrei să) faci parte. Ține minte că lumea nu uită ceea ce faci; BUN sau RĂU!

RC: Când te afli într-un loc public, întotdeauna poartă-te într-un fel care să poată fi asociat cu imaginea clubului din care (vrei să) faci parte. Ține minte că lumea nu uită așa ușor ceea ce faci; BUN sau RĂU! Imaginea motocicliștilor trebuie luată în considerare și trebuie făcut în așa fel încât această imagine – atât a clubului, cât și a motocicliștilor în general – să fie una pozitivă, club sau nu!

MC: Niciodată nu lăsa un membru neînsoțit să plece într-un loc nesigur. Fie că el/ea iese până la mașină, motocicletă sau iese afară doar ca să ia o gură de aer, tu du-te cu el/ea. Păzește-i mereu “spatele”.

RC: Nu lăsa niciodată un membru să meargă de unul singur “afară” fără a fi însoțit(ă). Mai ales în ziua de azi.

MC: Ține minte mereu cine ești. Your association doesn’t go on and off with your colors.

RC: Poartă-te mereu ca un om responsabil când ai de-a face cu alți oameni, inclusiv pe e-mail și internet. RC-urile nu au culori, dar sigla e una cumpărată, care arată că ești membru al unui club format pentru a aduce împreună pe cei pasionați de motociclete, de oameni care vor să se bucure de compania altora, cu interese/hobby-uri similare.

MC: Din respect, dacă unul sau mai mulți membri poartă o discuție privată, nu te apropia la o distanță la care ai putea auzi. Mai ales dacă se discută cu membrul altui club. Dacă e musai să întrerupi conversația, pune-te într-un loc unde poți fi văzut și așteaptă să fii observat/întrebat ce vrei.

RC: Este un lucru de bun simț și respect să nu întrerupi o conversație sau să tragi cu urechea.

MC: NICIODATĂ nu folosi expresia “club de outlaws” (outlaw = proscris) când vorbești cu membrul unui alt club!

RC: Niciodată nu folosi același termen mai sus menționat, când vorbești cu cineva necunoscut. Nu știi dacă nu e cumva membru MC, support club, sau dacă nu cunoaște pe cineva dintr-un MC.

MC: Nu minți niciodată un membru al unui alt club. Dacă ți se pune o întrebare despre clubul tău, e acceptabil să zici: “Nu cred că am voie să vorbesc despre asta” sau “Nu pot vorbi despre asta”. Dacă asta nu-l mulțumește pe interlocutor, pune-l în contact cu un membru/superior al clubului.

RC: Nu minți niciodată pe nimeni. Ori răspunzi la întrebare, ori îl îndrumi pe cel care întreabă către cineva care poate răspunde la întrebări, dacă nu știi tu răspunsul.

MC: Întotdeauna să ai respect pentru un membru al altui club. Chiar dacă nu e din clubul tău, el și-a câștigat “sigla” și o merită.

RC: Fii respectuos cu cei din jur chiar dacă nu sunt membri ai unui club; așa e corect.

MC: Nu striga NICIODATĂ vreun membru al unui club, folosind termenul “frate”. Nu e fratele tău!

RC: Niciodată nu folosi apelativul FRATE când te adresezi unui membru al unui alt club. Dacă vă cunoașteți așa de bine încât îl consideri fratele tău, așteaptă ca el să te strige așa în public.

MC: Ține minte! Tu îți câștigi “sigla”, nu ți-o dă nimeni!

RC: Membrii RC nu trebuie să își “câștige” sigla. O porți doar ca să arăți că aparții unui anumit club.

MC: Nu aduce în mijlocul membrilor un prieten apropiat, fără să ceri voie înainte.

RC: Nu-i nimic rău în a prezenta pe cineva grupului. Ai doar grijă să nu întrerupi o conversație când faci asta.

MC: La o întrunire deschisă, niciodată nu întoarce spatele unui “patchholder” din alt club. Asta nu este din motive de securitate, ci din faptul că arăți respect.

RC: Este întotdeauna politicos să stai cu fața la interlocutorul tău.

MC: Întotdeauna arată curtoazie și respect față de “patchholders” aparținând altui club. Nu te apropia de ei ca și cum ai vrea să fiți buni prieteni. În astfel de cazuri, acționează “profesional”. Discută puțin și apoi treci mai departe.

RC: Întotdeauna arată curtoazie și respect față de membrii unui club sau individualilor.

MC: Niciodată nu te grăbi să saluți un “patchholder” al altui club la o întrunire publică, chiar dacă îl cunoști foarte bine și cluburile voastre sunt în relații cordiale. Dacă vrei să îi saluți, apropie-te ușor și așteaptă ca ei să-ți indice dacă doresc această întâlnire în fața publicului. Pot fi preocupați cu probleme interne ale clubului sau nu doresc să arate publicului nivelul relațiilor de prietenie dintre cluburile voastre. Dacă par că vor să te ignore, acceptă asta și păstrează distanța, cel mai bine fiind în aceste cazuri să aștepți să vină ei la tine și să vadă și ceilalți acest lucru.

RC: Utilizează bunele maniere și bunul simț.

MC: Învață simbolurile diferitelor embleme pe care le porți, combinația ta de culori și a celorlalte cluburi.

RC: O emblemă RC nu va fi definită niciodată prin “culori”. RC-urile nu vor purta NICIODATĂ o emblemă cu însemnele regiunii din care provin și nici una prin care își arată suportul față de un MC. Emblemele RC de obicei se cumpără, nu se câștigă.

[traducere user Lt. Navarro și connex de pe motociclism ro]

Atât s-a tradus, în rest în engleză site-ul rc vs mc dot net merge așa și așa, preiau din archive is, că nu prea se mai actualizează, în engleză textul include ce este tradus mai sus, plus lucruri suplimentare.

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The purpose of this information guide is to provide the members of the Motorcycle community with information that will assist in bringing and maintaining a peaceful and respectful understanding between  members of motorcycling organizations that share the roadways.
This document is for education and information purposes only. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of all information presented and will make any corrections and updates as we get new information or as inaccuracies are pointed out.  We would also like to say that we understand that you may or may not agree with some or any of the things contained within this document and only ask that you read it with an open mind and consider that while you may or may not agree, you are at least gaining some insight as to what an MC type club is about. I will say that the only true way to really get the full story on what being in a MC Club is like is to go through the process to actually become a member.  It should be noted that different areas and different motorcycle clubs each have their own set of rules they follow. No disrespect is intended toward any individual, group, club or organization with the presentation of this information.Q: Who are you?A: Just a group of people that, with this site, do not claim any club affiliation at all.  We are just trying to pass along a little knowledge that may help someone somewhere answer a few questions they may have.  We will never claim to know everything about every club. We will not share any internal club business, just generalities about clubs. We welcome constructive comments from all. If an inaccuracy is found, please contact our webmaster.Thank YouAdditions to this site will gladly be reviewed, edited, and added as we see fit.  If you have an article you feel would be a good addition to this site, by all means send it to us for review.  I’ve had several e-mails since this site went active asking us to add certain articles.  We do have our own clubs, jobs, and lives that keep us all busy.  We also may not have the familiarity of the subject matter to compile a proper write up to give the subject the respect it deserves. We are always looking for people to submit to this site to promote a better understanding of the MC world.   We are not responsible for pages that may provide links to us with or without our permission. Nor do we endorse, warrant or guarantee the products, services or information described or offered at these other sites or the content of those external sites. For those of you that “borrow” information to use on your web site or message group, please reference the link to this site where you got the information from.  It’s the courteous and respectful thing to do. Thank YouSpecial Note:  This site has gone over better than any of us had hoped.  We are happy we could help so many around the world with a better understanding of the basics of the MC world and lifestyle.  After several requests over the years since this site went active, we now have our own web site so it should be available all the time now, instead of getting shutting down halfway through the month for going over its allotted bandwidth.This site is not sponsored or run by an MC or an RC.  Please do not ask how to join our club. Don’t assume you know who we are.  You will be wrong. We do not know who you need to contact to start your own MC.  That’s part of becoming part of the MC community, you need to figure it out.  If you do not know who the local clubs are to where you are, then starting your own may not be the best choice.   Your call…….  

Last updated on 6/8/2024, 2:30:26 AM

Opening statement:

Welcome to Understanding Motorcycle Clubs

This web site was based on a document we borrowed, with permission, from another motorcycle web site. We have added a lot of extra information that might be helpful to those who want to understand Motorcycle Clubs and how they are organized. It contains some information about the codes and values upon which many Motorcycle Clubs are based.***************************************************** It’s been asked if this document is meant to portray Riding Clubs as second class citizens to MC clubs.  If just because you are in a Riding Club, you should “kowtow” to MC clubs.The answer is no.  A vast majority of MC club members are just regular people. Have jobs, families, good days and bad days just like anyone else out there.  In other words, they are people too.  They just choose a little bit different lifestyle than most and only ask others to respect their choice.  They have certain codes they live by and it’s not just when the have their colors on – it’s 24/7/365.The following pages are just some of the ideals they live by.  I’ll say again, different areas have different views on things even between members of the same club.*****************************************************Special Thanks to Crowwalker who originally presented the main base of this document.  When this document was first considered to be used to help educate people, the permisson e-mail I got back was …  “Go for it, That’s what it’s there for.”           http://home.comcast.net/~oneways/binfo.html   (This was the Original link which is no longer active.) ***************************************************************************** The 3 main pages of the information contained there is in a document that was put together by the Viet Nam Vets MC about 15 or more years ago called the “13 Pages”. The information in the original has been expanded, and the document has been condensed and is now called, by another club, the “7 Pages”.  That document as been passed along to several of the ‘senior’ MC’s in the nation, as it contains information that for many years was passed down to their prospects, but had never been written down.

MC / RC Differences

MC: What is expected of a Prospect…
RC: What is expected of a RC member …

MC: As a Prospect, strive to conduct yourself as a responsible Patchholder at all times.
RC: As a RC member, strive to conduct yourself in a responsible manner so as to not give your club a bad name. Whether you are wearing your patch or not, common courtesy and respect for ANY individual you make contact with will always leave a good impression of you, your club and motorcyclists in general.

MC: Always display a positive attitude.
RC: Always display a positive attitude.

MC: Participate as much as you think is acceptable; then participate more.
RC: Participate as much as you are comfortable with.  You joined to ride and meet others with the same interest, but the more you participate the more you will get to know others and enjoy the experience. You will only get out of it that you put into it.

MC: If you see a Patchholder of your group that you have not met, take the initiative to introduce yourself as.. “Prospect (your name).”
RC: It’s always good to introduce yourself to fellow club members.

MC: At all gatherings, make it a point to circulate when you have the time to do so and greet every Patchholder who is there.
RC: It’s always good to meet new people.

MC: Don’t get overly friendly with someone that is not a regular acquaintance of the club. If someone outside the club has questions, refer them to a Patchholder. Never give out a Patchholder’s name, phone number, address, or any personal information to anyone outside the club.
RC: Meeting new people is one of the things a RC is about. Answer questions as you are able. If you don’t know the answer to a question, refer the questioner to someone you think might know, such as one of the officers of your club. Don’t give out personal information unless you know that the person being asked about wants it given out; that’s only common sense.

MC: Never give out any information about the club itself to outsiders. This includes, but is not limited to, where the club is based, how many members are in the club, etc.
RC: RCs aren’t normally out to hide anything. They are just a riding club and as such, really don’t have much in the way of club business. If you know of sensitive private matters concerning the RC then it is expected that you would use good judgement in not sharing it with others who are not involved.

MC: While in public places, always conduct yourself with your association with the club in mind. Remember that what you do, people will remember; good or bad.
RC: While in public places, always conduct yourself with your association with your club in mind. Remember that what you do, people will remember; good or bad. The public perception of anyone who rides a bike should be considered and a good attitude is always the kind of perception we want to present, club or no club.

MC: Never let a Patchholder walk off alone in an unsecured area. If he/she is going out to their car, bike, or even just out to get some fresh air, go with them. Watch their back at all times.
RC: Never let someone go off alone without someone keeping an eye on them, especially in this day and time.

MC: Remember who you are 24 hours a day. Your association doesn’t go on and off with your colors.
RC: You should always conduct yourself responsibly when dealing with other people, including e-mails and on the internet. RCs do not have colors – the patch is a purchased patch that shows you are a part of a riding club whose purpose is to get together to ride  motorcycles and enjoy the companionship of others with a similar interest.

MC: Out of respect, if two or more Patchholders are having a private conversation, don’t approach them within earshot, especially if they are talking with a Patchholder of another club. If you feel that you need to interrupt, put yourself in a place of visibility and wait to be acknowledged.
RC: It’s only common courtesy not to interrupt a conversation or evesdrop.

MC: NEVER use the term “Outlaw Club” when speaking to a member of another club.
RC: NEVER use the term “Outlaw Club” or any of the other names they are known by when speaking to strangers (you never know when one of them might be a member of an MC, be a support member or know members of an MC).

MC: Never lie to a member of another club. If you are in a situation where you are asked about the club or its membership, it is acceptable to say “That seems like club business and I really can’t talk about it”. If this doesn’t put the subject to rest, offer to put them in touch with a Patchholder for them to speak with.
RC: Never lie to anyone. Either answer the question or refer the questioner to someone who can.

MC: Always show respect to a Patchholder of another club. Even though they are with another club, they earned their patch.
RC: Show respect for other people, club or not. It’s the polite thing to do.

MC: Never call a Patchholder of another club “brother”. He’s not your brother.
RC: Never call a member of another club “brother”. If he is a friend and you two consider each other brothers, wait for him to address you as such in public.

MC: Remember, your patch is earned, it is not given to you.
RC: RCS don’t earn their patches. The patch has no meaning except that it indicates you belong to a club that you signed up for and associate with.

MC: Never bring a personal friend or a stranger into the presence of Patchholders without asking permission to do so first.
RC: It’s great to introduce new people to the group; just make sure you don’t interrupt a conversation when doing so.

MC: At an open function, never turn your back to a Patchholder of another club. This is not so much for safety reasons, but as a show of respect.
RC: It’s always polite to face the individual or group you are talking to.

MC: Always show respect and courtesy to Patchholders of other clubs. Don’t come across like you want to be best friends. Be professional in such encounters; keep it short, then move on.
RC: Always show respect and courtesy to everyone, club or not.

MC: Never be quick to walk up to a Patchholder of another club in a public setting, even if you know them well and the clubs are on friendly terms. If you want to greet them, walk up slowly and wait for them to indicate that they want such a public display to take place. They may be on some club business and may not want to give the general public the impression that the clubs are on such friendly terms. If they look like they are going to ignore you accept it and keep your distance, the best approach is always to wait for them to come to you and let everyone else see that.
RC: Use common courtesy and common sense.

MC: Learn what different parts of our patch represent and what the different color combination of yours and other clubs represent.
RC: A RC  patch should never be referred to as colors. RCs should NEVER wear any kind of location banner with their patch and NEVER wear any kind of support patch for any other MC. RC patches are usually bought – not earned. 

Protocol Basics

These are some things for you, as a Riding Club member, to consider when dealing with motorcycle clubs. They are also things to consider if and when you are going to be around motorcycle clubs.

1. Patchholders are people too. They have good and bad days, they have jobs, families, and normal everyday problems and concerns just like anyone else.  There are those who no matter what you say or do, it will not be right with them.  Just like with any group, you will find both good and bad.

2. Protocol and Respect are primary rules when dealing with a motorcycle club patchholder.

If you are FORMALLY introduced to a patchholder, make sure either the person doing the introduction (or you) make sure they know what club you belong to & if you are an officer, what position you hold. Under no circumstances do you interrupt to correct a mistake while that person is introducing you or while they are talking. Wait till the introduction is done & politely introduce yourself correctly. i.e.….

Joe Rider, xxxxxxxxxxxx Riding Club, 1st Officer, Anytown Chapter.

Fred Spokes, Anystate Officer, xxxxxxxxxxxxx Riding Club

(Use your name – not your nickname. Nicknames may come later.)

3. Greet them as you would meet anyone else & wait until the offer is made to shake hands. DO NOT interrupt, wait for them to recognize you. DO NOT be offended or make a big deal if they do not offer to shake your hand.  Many times they want to get to know about you and your club a little better before they will offer to shake your hand.

4. Never, Ever, Lie. You can refuse to answer a question in a polite manner by saying something like, “That seems like club business, and I would like to refer that to one of our officers in order to get better information for you.” Be prepared to answer questions about what your club is about. Such as….

A.) “We are a riding club & not a motorcycle club and have no intention of ever trying to become a motorcycle club”.

B.) The Patch is bought & not earned.

C.) No dues or Dues – as applicable.

D.) All makes and models of motorcycle are welcomed. Or it’s a brand specific or special requirements club.

E.) We are a non-territorial club.

F.) We are a neutral club and do not wear any MC support patches.

G.) Women riders are welcomed and in many cases are club officers.

H.) We are an AMA chartered riding club.

J.) Do not offer forum links or web sites, It’s better to refer them to a club officer.

K.) Do NOT brag about how large the local or national membership is.

L.) Do not volunteer club info. If they ask a question about the local chapter answer it if you can.  If they start asking questions about the number of members, or the National chain of organization refer them to one of the club Officers.

5.  Women in leadership positions or being a patchholder in motorcycle clubs, while not totally unheard of, is very rare. That’s just the way it is. Most motorcycle clubs would also rather deal with a man if there is business to conduct. Most realize what a riding club is about & will for the most part accept a woman as an officer, and a woman officer will most likely be allowed to attend any meeting. Whether or not they will deal directly with a woman officer or not depends on the individual motorcycle club/chapter. There is no set rule for this and they will let you know if it’s ok with them or not.  Many motorcycle clubs do not care to deal with the National officers.  They would prefer to deal with the local or state representatives.

6. If anyone knows a patchholder, don’t let him/her throw the patchholders’ name/nickname/club’s name around like you’re a great buddy of theirs (even if you are). Many clubs consider that as a major disrespect to the whole club.

7. Watch where you are when speaking about them, and never say anything about them in public because you never know when that woman, man, or kid in regular clothes standing near you might be one of them, or a “support member”. Patchholders do not always wear their colors. By the time the story gets back to the top club in your area, it will have been changed many times over and could be blown up way out of proportion.

8. Anything said about them between club members is club business ONLY. If comments, even those said in a joking manner were to get out, problems could start.  Discussion outside the privacy of the chapter can start  rumors which could cause a lot of problems for not only the chapter, but also for other chapters in and out of the state.

9. If for some reason you have to say something while in public about a motorcycle club, take the person you’re talking to aside, alone, and say ONLY what you need to say to get your meaning across. Say as little as possible so anyone else can’t overhear it & misunderstand what you’re talking about.

10. Watch where you wear your patch (RCs don’t wear colors, colors are earned, not bought) and it’s just common sense to stay in numbers when wearing the patch. (Some motorcycle clubs can be very territorial and some clubs don’t see any difference between a RIDING CLUB and MOTORCYCLE CLUB, good or bad.) If you are unsure of the areas or places normally frequented by motorcycle clubs, find out from your club Officers.  If you are planning on traveling and are concerned about what the situation may be in regard to the relationship with the local motorcycle clubs in the areas you’ll be traveling through or staying in, talk to your local officer and ask if they can find something out by contacting the officers in the areas you will be in.

11. “SHOW THEM RESPECT.” That’s A #1 with them! (and worth repeating).

12.  If you already know a patchholder, or get to know one in the future, don’t just walk up to him/her and interrupt when they are with other members. Wait till he/she acknowledges you first and NEVER touch them or put your arm around them like a buddy. Don’t put your hand out to shake theirs; wait for them to extend their hand first. If for some reason you’re not acknowledged at all, then just keep walking.  If you need to talk to an officer of a Motorcycle Club the proper way is to go through the Sgt at Arms or one of the patchholders.

13. You have to decide whether or not you want to show respect by going to any of their functions or if you want to avoid all of them all together. If you do choose to show respect and go, you can do this in a way that may make you feel more at ease by going to one of their “support’s” functions instead of the top club’s function (if they have a support patch then you’re still indirectly showing the top club respect). But if you do go, then you also have to go to their rival clubs’ function or you’ll be telling everyone that you’re not a “NEUTRAL” club as you said you were. (Example: If you go to the Club A’s function then YOU HAVE TO GO to the Club B’s function, etc..) You have to decide how you want to stay neutral, by going or not going and you have to let all the other area chapters know if you’re going too, so they’re not in the dark and we can ALL stay on top of things.

**** NOTE ***** A better way to support them and still give the appearance of being a neutral club is to attend only “open to the public” events that a motorcycle club may be sponsoring.

If you feel that you do want or need to go to a “limited event”, then you’ll have to go representing yourself as yourself, preferably without wearing any patches identifying your club. Remember, if you’re wearing your club patch, you are considered by everyone to be representing your whole club. If anything were to turn sour, then your whole club could wind up with problems down the road. Also, once the rivals of that club you visited find out (and they will within a day or two), then those rivals will see you as no longer being neutral & you could be considered a rival of theirs too.

14. No CLB’s (Chapter Location Bars), any territory rockers, or anything giving the appearance of a rocker should be worn with the RC patch. State flags, state logos may be worn in some areas and not in others. It’s best to check with the local RC officers to make sure what is ok in your area.

15. If someone from a motorcycle club requests that you remove your vest/patch, don’t argue. The best reply is, “No Problem” & politely take it off and let your Club Officer know what motorcycle club it was so they can deal with any potential problems. You normally will only get asked once.

16. If an establishment has a sign indicating “No Colors”, even though your patch is not considered “colors”, the vest should be removed out of respect to the other clubs and the policy of the establishment.  While you may just be a Riding Club, it’s only respectful to honor the house rules. Motorcycle clubs that honored the “house rules” would probably be deeply offended that you didn’t.  Also remember, many establishments choose to have this policy and it applies to all clubs that use any kind of patch; they do not distinguish between a MC and a RC.  Be aware of the local motorcycle club hangouts & it’s best not to wear the RC patch into them without an invitation.

17.  Do not wear your Patch into a motorcycle club clubhouse unless you have asked if it’s ok to do so or have been invited for a “sit down” with the officers of the motorcycle club, or been invited As a Riding Club Member, to attend a function there.

18.  In regard to women who are with a MC club, but not in the club:   Old Lady is not a negative or derogatory term, it’s just a slang term commonly used.  “Property Of” patches are their way of showing support for their man and the club he’s in.

19.  A patchholder may not, and many times will not, acknowledge your wife or girlfriend, especially upon a first meeting.  

20. DO NOT touch or sit on a patchholder’s bike unless invited to do so.  Do not expect the invitation.

21.  A prospect can usually be identified by the back patch they are wearing.  There are many different ways motorcycle clubs identify prospects.  They can have the rockers without the main patch.  They can actually have a patch saying “PROSPECT”.  Some do not wear any patch, because all the Patchholders know who the prospects are.  You want to treat a prospect or even someone you suspect is a prospect the same way you would treat a patchholder – with respect and courtesy.  Many clubs will take offense to someone outside their club using the prospect term. Calling someone “Prospect” if you are not a patchholder of that club more often is considered disrespectful.

22.  Have absolutely no doubt that a motorcycle club is serious and many have been known to physically educate a person who shows disrespect or displays a bad attitude.

23.  Be aware of the behavior and attitude of the other RC members who are with you (especially if anyone has been drinking) at events. If necessary, try to take action to avoid problems before they happen. For example, if someone appears to be getting too angry or loud and possibly disrespectful, take them aside or suggest going somewhere else until things settle down. You could also let one of the officers of the club know about the situation. If an incident should occur in spite of your efforts when no Officers are present, make sure to let your officers know as soon afterward as you can. If no club officers happen to be there, then ALL of the RC members that are there need to make the attempt to take that person aside, and strongly suggest that the offending RC member go somewhere else to settle down.

24.  Be aware that problems created in one part of the country by a RC member or issues with the RC in one area have the potential to affect RC members in other areas and states.

25. The term Brother or Bro has special meaning to a Patchholder, do not call a Patchholder Brother or Bro.  Their Brothers are fellow Patchholders and those that have earned that term.

26. Don’t ever touch any part of another club member’s colors, which includes the vest or jacket it’s sewn on.  That is considered serious disrespect, which could cause them to aggressively educate the un-informed.

Hangaround

The hang around period is just a honeymoon. You are not a member or representative of the club and neither you or the club has a claim on each other. If something happens to you, the club is not expected to back you up. It is a time when you size up the club and ask yourself if they are what you want. It is also a time when they are sizing you up and asking themselves if you are what they want. It’s a gentleman’s agreement at this point. There is no dishonor for either of you if you back away from the deal. In making your decision, you should remember that as a prospect in that club, life will be a lot harder than it is in the hang around phase. Until you are patched, you will be sitting out Church meetings as an outsider and not permitted to enter until you get patched in. While nothing is perfect, there is really only one rule if you decide to back away. There will be conditions on your doing it honorably. That could range from just asking to be let loose to a request that you meet with each patch holder individually and ask their blessing on your decision. Even in the case of an honorable decision, there can be some hard feelings. For instance, you can bet your bottom dollar that the patch holders in that club think it is the second best thing in life to butter and pussy, so a decision on your part to move on could result in some hurt feelings (especially if they thought you were going to make a good prospect). However, if you do it right, and move to another club, those feelings will usually subside with time. If you do move on, you are OUT. That means that none of them are going to call you to go out for a beer or to hang around with them anymore. When you’re in, you’re in and when you’re out, . . . you’re OUT. Motorcycle Clubs operate on the honor system and you “always dance with the one who brung ya”. It is a huge act of dishonor to be doing a hang around with more than one club. Underneath all of this, I am seeing something which I had to recognize in myself in the beginning of my movement towards a club. It is a common thing that happens to lots of people. In the beginning you feel the exhiliration of being around those guys, but at a certain point, your life begins to get very boxed in. You see their dedication to each other as brothers and realize that your world is about to go from one where you know many people, to one where there are only ten guys who you will spend the rest of your days with. That was for me a very scary moment and I spent a lot of nights questioning myself about what I was doing. Well, to make a long story short, I backed away from that club (got all the brother’s permission, etc., ) but it wasn’t long before I began to miss what I’d given up. Like the guy who gave up his wife and marriage just because he got laid one night by some bimbo and now is thinking “the grass is greener on the other side of the hill”. Motorcycle clubs are a family thing. Your brothers become your brothers because you have all learned to love each other through thick and thin. You know each other’s strengths and weaknesses and love each other even when you are fighting. I don’t have any trouble telling one of my brothers “I love you”, but you will never hear me say those words to my real life blood brothers, because all I share with them is some DNA blood plasma. Brotherhood is based upon a million little moments that run the gamut from life threatening situations, sitting on the side of the road at midnight broke down in the middle of noplace, and watching each other’s kids grow up. Lots of joy and lots of tears make up the brotherhood. It took me a long time to realize why MC chapters are so small. It is because when you get to 14 + guys in a chapter, it begins breaking down into clicks. So you see, while I am in very large club and have lots of brothers, I have only 10 or 15 who I am really tight with. If you are contemplating not joining because you fear your world will get too small, please remember that what ever club you go to, it will be the same thing, and if you persevere, it will either get better or you will just wake up someday and realize you are not MC material.

Prospect

For a prospect its simple, Keep your mouth shut, never discuss club business with anyone, and the reality is a prospect is the bottom of the chain. To be really good, learn all members names, Easy, learn their occupations, hobbies, etc, A club is a brotherhood so be a brother, also make sure you are available for all events, all prospects are expected to do as they are told or instructed, that’s a given.  IF a officer needs his back watched at a outing or a run, or a brother is broke down at 2 am, just be there. The more you do the easier it is to become a member.  You are being watched and it will be noticed, always remember as a prospect you have no rank or privileges, and upon introducing yourself  to any patch holder. You must only introduce yourself as a prospect of the ****** Motorcycle club, and keep all other conversation to a minimum, its time to start thinking of a road name. We will pick a name and it will be who you are when in club attire. The road name will be short and describe your personality or something that happens to you or that you do that the Patch Holders think would be an appropriate road name. If your probate time gets extended it means you have screwed up, and you should talk to your sponsor. Prospecting should not be looked at as a necessary evil, but a labour of love. All the horrific shit you’ve heard about initiation or rite of passage ritual from prospect to member is true. Good luck.PS, Never leave a patch holder anyplace, never ever, especially out of town always stay to the end. Unless you have a extreme reason, like your family has a emergency.  Parents or children. (Family) remember all PH are brothers. Respect is the biggest lesson some guys have to learn.

Club Organization

Just an example of  basic duties and responsibilities of one MC club.  Each club and even chapters within the same club will have differences.

Principal Officers – Executive Committee

There shall be five voting officers for each chapter; President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Sergeant-at-Arms.  These officers make up the executing committee.  The Road Captain shall serve on the Executive Committee as a non voting member, except while serving as an alternate.

Eligibility

Any Active Member may run for office.  Nominations are not required to run for any principal office.  Any Active Member may become a candidate by simply stating their intention to do so at the October or November monthly meeting. A member may not run for more than one office at a time.

Elections

Elections of principal officers shall be held at the December monthly meeting.  In order to allow for an orderly transition of administrations, the newly elected slate shall assume office at the Annual Meeting.  All principal officers shall be elected by a plurality vote.  A member may not hold more than one office at a time.

Term of Office

All principal officers shall be elected for a term of one year.

Special Election

In the event that the current elected officer is no longer able to perform their duties,  a special election for that position shall be held to fill that position at the next monthly meeting.

Impeachment

A writ of impeachment against any officer may be submitted by any active member at a regular meeting.  This writ must be signed by at least three Active Members of the chapter and must list the charges as the basis for the writ.  All Active Members in the chapter must be informed of the writ prior to any impeachment vote.  In order to allow the officer in question an opportunity to prepare a statement concerning the charges against them, a special shall be scheduled for action on the writ no less than three, no more than seven , days following the submission of the writ.  Prospects are prohibited from attending this meeting, unless required to give testimony to support the writ or to support the officer in question as a witness.   Impeachment requires a 2/3 majority vote of all Active Members in the chapter.  Any disciplinary action besides the impeachment will be decided upon by the remaining officers within 7 days of the impeachment vote.

Duties and Authority

President

The President is the CHAIRMAN of the Executive Committee and the Chief Executive Officer of the club chapter.  All matters concerning relations between the club and any outside person or organization should be routed to the President for appropriate action.  The President or his delegate shall assume the Chair at all chapter meetings.  He is responsible for controlling the meeting and keeping order.  If necessary, the Chair may utilize the services of the Sergeant-at-Arms to aid in keeping order.  The Chair may not make or second any motion, and may only vote on questions where their vote would affect the outcome, as in making or breaking a tie vote, or on ballot questions.

Vice-President

The Vice-President shall coordinate all committees and supervise plans for all club events.  The Vice-President shall act as an intermediary between the President and the Members and Prospects.  All questions or comments concerning any club business not specifically related to the duties of the other officers should be brought directly to his attention.  Additionally, the Vice- President is the Second-in-Command to the President, and shall assume all responsibilities and duties of the President in their absence.

Secretary

The Secretary is responsible for making and keeping all club chapter records. Membership List, Chapter Bylaws, Rules of Order, Standing Rules, Records of all committee appointments, all written reports, copies of all correspondence between the club and any outside person or organization, Meeting Minutes.  He is responsible for calling roll at the meetings.  The Secretary must notify Active Members of special or emergency meetings, and must notify all the members of any appointments or elections in their absence.

Treasurer

The Treasurer keeps all the funds of the club chapter.  All un-issued Club Colors and Patches, as well as a record of colors, patches, or reproductions therof issued to members.  He may disburse funds to pay expenses as prescribed in the Standing Rules.  The Treasurer must keep an accurate record of all income and expenses.  He is required to report the fiscal status of the club at each regular meeting for the information of the members.  He must submit a written annual report to the Executive Committee at the Annual Meeting.

Sergeant-at-Arms

The Sergeant-at-Arms is responsible for ensuring that the Bylaws and Standing Rules of the club are not violated.  He is responsible to insure that the orders of the Executive Committee are carried out in an expeditious manner.  He is responsible for policing and keeping order at all club events, except as noted under the Duties of the Chairman.  He may conscript members to aid in keeping order on their own authority.  He has the responsibility to the club to report any unseemly behavior or any incidents to the Executive Committee.  He is responsible for securing any patches or colors from any member who retires, resigns, or is expelled.  The SAA is responsible for the safety and security of the club, as well as the protection and defense of its members and prospects.  He shall keep and maintain a record of all data pertinent to the safety and security of the club and it’s members and prospects.  Upon becoming aware of any real or perceived threat to the club, its Members, Prospects, or events, he shall immediately notify the Executive Committee of that information.

Road Captain

The Road Captain is responsible for all club runs.  He shall research, plan, and organize all runs.  During actual time on the road or at intermediate stops during a run, he shall act as the ranking club officer, deferring only to the President or Vice-President if either of them are present, and only then for matters involving persons outside the club.  He shall supply the Secretary with any information required to notify outside agencies of impending club runs in a timely manner.

1% Bylaws example

This set of 1%er MC Club bylaws and rules of conduct was submitted for use in the effort to help educate.  Remember, just like with everything else on this web site, different club in different areas can vary widely.  This is just one of the many different ways a club’s bylaws are set up.

President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer are all elected officers, along with two additional elected members, who are not club officers for the Executive Board.  All others appointed by the President with a confidence vote from patch-holders in good standing is required.

PRESIDENT

The executive duties of the president are as follows:

1. To preside over meetings of both the Executive Board and the club as a whole.

2. To judge items not covered in the constitution or in the rules regulations.

3. Directorship gives the president authority to judge items not in the constitution.

4. To act as the personal representative of the club in the area of public relations; as a liaison between the DBMC and local-law enforcement agencies; and as a connecting link between the DBMC and other outlaw motorcycle clubs.

5. To represent the club in any club business contacts and to supervise major economic transactions.

6. To assist DBMC officers in the interpretation of their club responsibilities, and to promote club life among members in general.

VICE-PRESIDENT

The executive duties of the vice president are to assume the responsibilities of the presidency when the president is unable to do so.

SECRETARY

The executive duties of the secretary are as follows:

1. To record and safeguard the minutes of the club meetings.

2. To maintain the Club Constitution, recording any additions, deletions, or modifications.

3. To handle any club correspondence.

TREASURER

The executive duties of the treasurer are as follows:

1. To monitor and record the club’s income and expenditures.

2. To collect the dues and fines owing by members.

EXECUTIVE BOARD

The executive board consists of those members who were elected as officers of the club along with two additional elected members who are not club officers. The board holds scheduled meetings every two weeks. Emergency meetings can be called if a situation arises that demands immediate attention. The executive board is responsible for:

1. The monitoring of conflicts within the club.

2. The application of disciplinary procedures.

3. The evaluation of prospects and their progress.

4. The presentation of summarized assessments of the overall club situation to the membership (court).

ROAD CAPTAIN

The executive duties of the road captain are as follows:

1. To plan the travel routes and organize the basic itinerary of the club prior to going on a ‘run’ (tour).

2. To lead the club in formation while riding on tour.

3. To enforce club rules and procedures for group riding.

4. Designate a maintenance supervisor for all club vehicles.

SERGEANT AT ARMS

The executive duties of the sergeant at arms are as follows:

1. To maintain order at club meetings in particular, and club activities in general.

2. To ensure that members adhere to club rulings, policies, and expected models of conduct when dealing with other members or outsiders.

3. To defend club members, property, or territory from outside threats.

COURT

Court will consist of all patch holders that are eligible to vote.

ELECTIONS OF OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE BOARD NON OFFICER MEMBERS

Officers of the club serve a twelve-month term of office, annual elections are held at the last regular meeting of the year, in December.

1. In order to be eligible for office, a patch holder has to have been an active member in good standing for a minimum of one year.

2. Patch holders who aspire towards a particular position will campaign informally for one month prior to the elections.

3. Electioneering is conducted on an interpersonal face to face basis.

4. Hopeful candidate will approach a member, inform them what he is willing to stand for office if nominated, ask for member’s opinion of his qualifications, and solicit the member’s support.

Meetings

1. One organized meeting per month.

2. Majority rules.

3. If a vote is taken at a meeting and a member is not there, his vote is void.

4. Meetings will be closed except for prospective members and anyone there on business.

5. All meetings will be run on a parliamentary basis. Members will be evicted for unruly conduct.

6. Quorum for a meeting is sixty percent of membership and eighty percent for membership votes.

7. Everyone will attend the meeting on his bike if it is favorable weather, unless his bike is broken down or not running at the time.  If the club calls a ride/meeting, all members will attend. If a member is working, sick, bike not running, he will be excused.

However, if a Devils Breed repeatedly uses work as an excuse for not ‘being there,’ he will be ‘talked to’.

8. Members must have colors with him when attending meetings.

9. Members must be of sound mine (straight) when attending meetings.

10. If a member attends a meeting and is fouled-up, he will be FINED.

11. There will be absolutely no booze or drugs consumed during meetings.

12. During a meeting there will be no talking among members until they get the floor through the president. A sergeant-at-arms, if not present, will be appointed and anyone not abiding by the above will be evicted.

13. Miss three (3) meetings in a row and you’re out of the club.

14. Anyone missing meetings even if at work gets fined $50.00 except for guys in hospital or jail or out of town for a period of time, including prospects.

15. Members must attend meetings to leave club and turn in his colors and everything that has the name Devils Breed on it (T-shirts, wrist bands, mugs, etc.).

16. If a member is thrown out of the club or quits without attending meetings, he loses his colors, motorcycle, and anything else that says Devils Breed on it, and probably an ass kicking.

Membership qualifications/ Prospects

1. Prospects must be at least 18 years old.

2. Prospects must have a Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

3. Prospects cannot do any drugs.

4. Prospects must show a sincere interest in club and bikes.

5. Prospects on the road with bike equipped for the road.

6. Prospect must be sponsored by one member who has known him at least one year (may be waived by vote).

7. Sponsor is responsible for prospect.

8. Sponsor can pull a prospect’s rockers at his discretion.

9. Prospects must attend all meetings and club functions.

10. Prospects must do anything another member tells him to do, that a member has done or would be willing to do himself.

11. Prospect will stand behind club and members.

12. No stealing from prospects.

13. Prospect must ride his bike to meeting at time of being voted into club.

14. Prospect must pay that day $125.00 for his colors before receiving them. Prospect fee is $325.00:  $200.00 is for annual dues, $100.00 is for the patch and $25.00 is for first month dues. The balance is due in 90 days. This amount is not refundable.

15. Prospect members must be voted in. Two ‘no’ votes equal a rejection. One ‘no’ vote must be explained.

16. Prospective member’s prospecting period is at the discretion of sponsor and the club. Directorship shall decide when vote is necessary.

17. Every patch holder on Island must vote for prospect to make center patch. Vote must be unanimous.

18. No prospect will be voted for center-patch with outstanding loan.

19. Only the sponsor or an officer may hand out a patch to a prospect. This will be done at a meeting with only patch holders present.

RULES AND REGULATIONS

The rules of the club will be strictly enforced. If anyone breaks them, executive board will deal them with. If these rules and regulations are broken, it could mean either immediate dismissal or suspension, whatever the executive board sees fit.

Breaking any of the following Rules will be reason for immediately kick-out from club and probably an Ass Kicking:

1. Failure to pay his dues according to the section dealing with the paying of dues.

2. No hype. No use of heroin in any form. Anyone using a needle for any reason other than having a doctor use it on you will be considered hype. (Automatic kick-out from club)

3. If any brother gets hooked on any drug that is dangerous to the club he will be helped first. Then he will be dealt by the executive board.

4. No narcotics burn. When making deals, persons get what they are promised or the deal is called off (Automatic kick-out from club).

5. If you’re selling dope you don’t do it as a club member, you don’t wear your colors, you don’t wear your club T-shirts (Automatic kick-out from club).

6. There will be no stealing among members. Anyone caught will get an ass kicking and be kicked out of the club (Automatic kick-out from club).

7. If a patch holder or prospect throws his colors or quits, colors are pulled (Automatic kick-out from club).

8. Members cannot belong to any other clubs.

9. If a group or individual attacks any member, the whole club shall stand behind him and fight if necessary. If, however, the member is drunk and aggressive and purposely starts an argument, the rest of the members will escort him away, or step between before trouble starts.

10. No member will disgrace the club by being yellow. (The above rules will be put forward to applicants. If they cannot abide by these rules and are not in favor of them, they will be denied membership to the club.)

11. No member will destroy club property purposely.

12. No member will take the attitude that he doesn’t have to help other members and other members don’t have to help him

13. No member will go against anything the club has voted for and passed.

14. No member will get together on their own and plan something for themselves on club rides. It will be brought up to the whole club and the whole club will participate in anything that is decided upon.

15. The club will always stay together on rides, runs, parties, field meets etc. and will not fraternize with club’s rival clubs. The only way a member will be permitted to leave the main group will be to notify the president or whoever is in charge. When the time comes that the majority feels it is time to leave, we will all leave together. Anyone staying behind for a good reason will do so at his own risk and can expect no help.

16. Members will have good attendance. Members must have a good reason for not attending meetings or rides, such as working, sickness, no transportation, and bike not running.

General Rules (SOP)

If anyone breaks general rules, executive board will deal with them and/or voted by the court.

1. No explosives of any kind will be thrown into the fire where there is one or more Devils Breed in the area. FINE: Ass whipping and subject to the executive board.

2. Brother shall not fight each other with weapons; when any Devils Breed fights another Devils Breed, it is one on one, prospects same as members. FINE: $100.00 for breaking above rule or possible loss of patch.

3. If you don’t help out the Club in its activities and you use the Club solely for your benefit, you will be warned. No second chance.

4. Do as you say or walk the line.

5. Devils Breed losing privilege of wearing colors will also lose privilege of voting and ruling over prospects.

6. The treasurer shall keep a clear record of all money paid in and out during the week and will balance it before every meeting; the books will be gone over once a week.

7. All Devils Breed fines will be paid within 30 days. Fines will be paid to the treasurer.

8. Members with extra parts will loan them to members. They must be replaced or paid for.

9. If you get busted and or go to jail, notify an officer or member so he can arrange for your bail.

10. Where we go on our rides will be voted upon by the entire membership.

11. Each patch holder/prospect is required to maintain a valid motor vehicle license, which includes the authorization to operate motorcycle.

12. Everyone must have an American bike. Consideration will be give to any member who is in between bikes but he must sincerely intend to get another bike in the near future.

13. If for some reason, such as a license suspension, a member can’t ride on the road for a long period of time, or if he is without a bike for a short time, he will turn in his patch and upon getting back on the road, the patch will be returned.

14. If a member’s bike is not running for a period of thirty days, unless he is in jail or hospital, his colors will be confiscated. A member’s bike must be running for at least one week (e.g., not fifteen minutes), to be exempt from the above rule. This period is subject to change at the discretion of the executive board. This is a MOTORCYCLE CLUB!

15. Confirmation vote is required for all new patch-holders at their 12-month point. Unanimous vote from all good standing members is required.

16. Absolutely no talking about Club business to persons outside the Club. No talking about Club business over any telephone.

17. If you are told you are too drunk to drive, you will turn over your keys to a brother. You and your scooter will be taken care of.

18. If the Road Captain or an Officer determines your bike is unsafe to ride, you are grounded until it is safe.

19. During funeral runs, no one will pack a passenger, patch must be seen.

20. The run for “Beer with Bob” and Jimbo is mandatory, no excuses.

21. All Club vehicles will be returned with all fluids full and in good condition. Maintenance will be done under the supervision of the maintenance supervisor; a patch holder designated by the Road Captain.

22. There shall be a wrecking crew consisting of the Sergeant at Arms, the Junior Patch, and whomever the Senior Patch may designate. The purpose of the wrecking crew is to check out bars, etc. prior to entry by President, Vice President, or Senior Patch.

23. Prospect will watch all bikes when members are at Club functions, in bars, and anywhere the senior member present deems necessary.

24. There will be a Club run on a Sunday once a month. Whoever picks the run route will lead the pack.

DUES/LOANS

1. Club dues will be paid each month, due by the first.

2. Two months overdue is the limit.

3. They are $25.00 per month and $200.00 yearly.

4. Dues will be $25.00 per month payable every meeting or every second meeting.

5. Annual Dues of $200.00 will be paid 1 October.

6. Upon failure of paying dues within two weeks, member shall be suspended and turn in his colors.

7. If within two months dues still aren’t paid, the colors will be forfeited to pay them and member will no longer be considered a member. The only exception to this shall be if a member is in jail or if he is out of town for a period of time. If he is in jail, dues won’t be expected, but if he is out of town dues will be paid when he returns.

8. All loans or debts will be secured by collateral. Members will agree upon payment. Two patch holders must be present in any personal loan transaction.

Respect

1. Respect is to be shown to all club members, officers, members, members’, bikes, OL’, ladies, house, job, etc. In other words, if it’s not yours, ‘Don’t Mess with it.

2. Respect your colors.

3. No stealing from members.

4. No fighting among each other is allowed, any punches to be thrown will be done by the Sgt At Arms.

Colors

1. President gets colors from mother club in area when new member is voted in.

2. When a member leaves club, member turns over colors to president of chapter.

3. Respect your colors; don’t let anyone take them from you except the president of the chapter.

4. No colors are worn in a cage, except during funerals and loading or unloading a bike from a truck.

5. No hippie shit on the front.

6. Nothing will be worn on the back of your jacket except colors.

7. Colors must be worn at all times when riding or at Club functions. Only one of your brothers or your OL’ lady can babysit your colors. Colors are not required to be worn to and from employment if not allowed by employer. If patch is lost or stolen, patch holder will be judged by court.

8. The only way a member of Devils Breed can retire and keep his patch is if local officers authorize him. Minimum time for retirement is 5 years.

OL’ ladies

1. Don’t fuck around with brother’s OL’ lady. (Probably an Ass Kicking and kick-out from club).

2. Property patches will be brought up before all patch holders for input. Majority vote from all eligible patch holders is required.

3. Members are responsible for their OL’ ladies.

4. Members may have more than one (1) OL ‘ lady.

5. Members must state who his OL ‘ lady is.

6. Members may not discuss club business with their OL’ lady.

7. No OL’ ladies allowed at meetings.

8. OL’ ladies are allowed unescorted at clubhouse only by prior arrangement by OL’ man.

9. Property patch is worn optional on an OL ‘ lady. So if you see a chick you better ask before you leap.

Words from a Patchholder #1

WHAT IS A MOTORCYCLE CLUB?

If motorcycles influence your lifestyle, you are part of the motorcycle community. Of all the types of organizations found within that community, the motorcycle club stands apart and ranks highest in stature. A serious M/C commands respect for one or both of two reasons:

Those who are informed recognize the deep level of personal commitment and self-discipline that a person has to demonstrate and sustain in order to wear a patch, so much so that it is akin to being a full time profession for the individual. They realize that a Club’s Colors are closely guarded and the membership process is long and difficult. All else put aside, you have to respect the person for what they have accomplished by being able to earn and keep the patch they wear.

Those who are less informed see only the surface of things. They see the vigilance of mutual support. The potential dangers of invoking a response from a well-organized unit that travels in numbers and are always prepared for confrontation. They know that NO ONE CAN PROVOKE ONE CLUB MEMBER WITHOUT HAVING TO ANSWER TO THE ENTIRE CLUB, and that such an answer is a point of honor that must come to the last person. The type of respect that this generates is one that is born out of fear.

The serious motorcycle club will conduct itself publicly in a highly professional manner. They will not go out of their way to cause trouble or to present themselves as an intimidating force without purpose or provocation. Their respect is gained from both of the items cited above.

There are many lesser clubs whose membership is made up of equally lesser individuals. These clubs, without a continual show of strength, would have no respect at all. The majority of these types of clubs are short lived; however, the general public does not draw a distinction between different club colors. If one club causes a problem that touches the public sector, the offending club’s identity is either confused or ignored, and heat comes down to suppress all clubs. As a result of this, within a given community, motorcycle clubs will tend to police themselves.

There is also a natural hierarchy that is recognized between motorcycle clubs themselves. The strongest and most established club will assume charge of the particular state in which they ride. This dominant club will for reasons that are beneficial to all:

~ authorize the establishment of new clubs within the state

~ will disband clubs that cause continual problems

~ act as mediators to resolve problems between existing clubs

~ step in and enforce their own solution if the feuding clubs cannot come to terms on their own

~ provide communications links and coordinate intra club events

~ call on the clubs within a state for additional support, if needed, when dealing with a threatening external force.

It is also not uncommon for the dominant club of an area to select some of their prospects from the best of the ranks of the other clubs. In fact some clubs have been established with this sole purpose in mind.

If it were not for the dominant club of a state taking this leadership position, clubs would not enjoy the luxury of putting their time and resources to the benefit of their individual brother or sisterhood. Nor would we enjoy the mobility and freedom of movement that comes with peace and order.

Within the motorcycle club itself, officers are elected to the traditional posts of President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Sergeant at Arms, etc. In addition, you will find the less traditional posts of Road Captain, Enforcer, and WarLord. The Road Captain is responsible for the logistics of effectively moving the club from point A to point B. The Enforcer answers only to the President and sees that the President’s orders are carried out. He will also be the one who travels if a problem has to be addressed at a distance. The WarLord is in charge of tactics and strategies in times of stress. In some instances, he is also responsible for the club’s security issues. In most clubs, the positions of WarLord and Enforcer are combined and may carry the name of either.

In most cases, the patch holder was a “hang around” for the club for at least a year. Before that, they were a long-standing acquaintance and their attitude and overall conduct was well known. They then prospected for the club from one to two years before they were awarded their patch.

Of all the things in this persons life, their loyalty and commitment to the well being of their club comes first, above family, friends, job, personnel possessions, and personal safety. There is NEVER, REPEAT NEVER, any doubt or time spent on even considering which comes first. The only thing that approaches their commitment to the club is their commitment to their brothers or sisters. But even here, the interest of the club always comes before that of the individual. They know that their family can walk out on them without a second’s notice; they can lose their job overnight, even for good; close friends come and go with time. But the club and their brothers or sisters will always be there for them. It is one of the few, if not the only thing, that can be counted on. They know this because they themselves are committed to always being there for them.

To be certain that this ethic and standard of attitude is carried by new members, they participate in conditioning, educating, and at times testing the club’s prospects or “prospective members.” As such, before they allow another person to wear their colors, as a symbol of their mutual commitment, they will feel certain that the new member brings with them the same loyalty and dedication that they themselves display.

They have the attitude that there are two types of people in the world: their brothers or sisters, and those who are a potential threat to the club. For this reason they will not discuss club related business, membership numbers, the club’s movements, or personal information about their brothers or sisters with anyone outside the club. Anything that could possibly be used by anyone to piece together an informative picture of the club is a very serious security issue.

Wearing a patch is more than getting together for good times. It is also getting together in bad times. It constitutes a lot of work. It is committing yourself to a lifestyle in which you do not look for how your brothers or sisters might help you, but ways in which you can be of help to them. You always look to give, but never expect to receive.

Now all of this may sound very idealistic to you, and in some cases it is just that. But, it is an ideal that all clubs profess and are always striving to achieve in principle and practice.

In closing, you should be aware of a “golden rule” of conduct that you should bear in mind while traveling in club circles:

“If you give respect, you will get respect. If you act like an asshole, you will be treated like an asshole!”

Words from a Patchholder #2

Subject:   1%er / Outlaw clubs 101

The “Biker” world has been mine for some thirty-five years, from hardcore 1%er’s to the new and improved “Riding Clubs”. I’ve seen and encountered just about everything you can pull from any movie. Being knowledgeable of an element you might encounter is always critical to your safety. Whether it is road rage from a cager (driver of a car) or a robbery at your local Seven-Eleven. You learn what parts of town to stay out of because someone has told you or you learned the hard way. You have the intelligence not to provoke a Pit Bull or stand in the middle of a fire ant mound. You learn to ride a motorcycle safely and so you must learn about the world you have entered. Now, many of you have entered the “Biker” or “Club” world and are not aware of the issues that may affect you and only need a little guidance.  It would be my suggestion to do some research on this issue because knowledge is power. It’s hard to convey the complete understanding of this culture in a small article but it will help.

This information is to educate you on the outlaw 1%er lifestyle, not to scare you away from riding. (And remember, please think before you respond to anything, don’t do any bashing of anyone or any club on the e groups, forums or at any bars.) First off, the likelihood of anyone getting into a scrape with outlaws/1%er”s is slim to none unless you frequent their bars or hangouts. But make no mistake, this is very real. Since most bike clubs are  “NOT” outlaw clubs, they will have no issue with you as long as you stay out of their “business” and follow biker protocol. There is rarely a problem at a public event or poker run but it is always possible. So lets start with the “Rocker” you hear about. The rocker is in the form of a half moon, for lack of a better term. Similar to the bottom of a rocking chair. If you think about it, you have all seen photos of “Hells Angels” and the way the patches are arched above and below the center patch. MC (Motorcycle Club) patch and the 1% diamond will also be found on their Cut (also referred to as  Colors). There are also many other patches some clubs wear that only mean something to that particular club.

The 1% diamond is the key to identifying a 1%er. It is a patch in the shape of a diamond with “1%” on it. That is mostly worn on the left shoulder but is seen on the back of their colors also. They, (1%er’s) ride mostly Harley’s only, along with their support clubs and almost all outlaw clubs, but that’s another story. Flying a certain style of patch on the back of colors is how the outlaws identify who is or is not claiming territory. Territory is a huge issue and they will fight and/or kill over it if it comes to that. It’s just “Business”. The rocker or the bar style patch is not acceptable to 1%er’s unless approved by them. And just because an M/C club wears  “Rocker” or “Bar” style patch’s that doesn’t make them an outlaw club. You just have to learn who is who but your officers should have some knowledge on that. As I said, most clubs are not outlaw clubs and don’t wear a top and bottom rocker. They may have a top rocker but if they have a bottom patch it will not have State, City or County wording on it , many times it will be the member’s road name. For example any club in Texas (unless it’s grand fathered by the Bandido’s) that’s not affiliated with Bandidos, (and other than a police club) are not allowed to fly the “Texas” patch (“Bar” or “Rocker”) on the back. They have even forced some police clubs to remove the Texas rocker. Also, 99% of Bandido support clubs cannot wear Texas on the back. The Bandidos claim that right as an MC (Motorcycle Club) and will aggressively approach you if you are seen wearing it on the back of your colors. Most states have its dominant 1% club where the same rule applies. The Bandidos are the dominant club in Texas as well as several other states.

 A 1%er overall is also referred to as a “1%er”. Outlaws Bikers (not to be confused with the 1% “OUTLAWS” Motorcycle Club) are also hard-core clubs NOT wearing a 1% patch but have very close ties with 1%er’s. That would also include any 1% support clubs. Appearance is important, it would be chaos if everyone wore “Police” uniforms; identification of who you are is imperative. You would surly be put in jail if you were not a police officer but were wearing the uniform and acting like a cop. So, on the other end of the spectrum, you don’t want to be mistaken for something you’re not for safety sake in all walks of life. Wearing an AMA patch on the front of your colors/vest will identify you (to outlaws) as a family club member and are of no threat to them. 1%er’s push the AMA patch to all clubs because 1%er’s and other outlaws clubs don’t wear one. Some clubs wear the AMA patch upside down in protest of being forced by 1%er’s to wear it. 

1%er’s and outlaws will have nothing to do with the AMA  (American Motorcyclist Association) and vise versa, and will NEVER wear an AMA patch. The term 1% comes from the AMA.  In the 60’s, the AMA labeled the “Hells Angels” and the likes, as making up only 1% of all motorcyclists as being “The Bad Boys”.  The Angels adapted that and became an exclusive 1% club. And ANY club that tried to wear that 1% diamond had better be able to back it up or rival 1% clubs disbanded them. More often than not they were disbanded, in many cases by death. The term “The Big Four” is the four largest 1% clubs and the most dangerous clubs in the world. 1.“Bandidos”, established 1966 2. “Hells Angels”, established 1948 3.”Outlaws”,  established 1935 4.”Pagans” established  1959. The Bandidos , are the fastest growing outlaw motorcycle club in the U.S.

There are hundreds of smaller 1% clubs that can be just as dangerous as the big ones on a smaller level. Just a note. If you are ever around outlaw clubs when they greet each other, you may see some of them kiss each other on the lips. This started back in the 60’s when 1%er’s used it to shock people when they were around them. It has since evolved into a ritual that is proof of a very tight brotherhood.

To become a 1%er or an outlaw is not an easy task. Not many will ever wear the 1% diamond, and only men can join an outlaw or a 1% club.  The prospecting process is more than most men can take or will take. Thus eliminating the possible club invasion of undercover or “Feds” as best they can. It is not generally easy to prospect for any M/C club, especially outlaw clubs. The comment was made about numbers, that the citizen riders out number them 50 to 1. That is true, but, think what you will, five average guys are sometimes no problem for one hardcore 1%er. If you take on one, you take them all on. For the most part, now days, outlaws will try to stress their position very clearly before resorting to violence.Rival clubs have killed each for years over things like territory and simple arguments over what seems to be nothing to the average citizen. Outlaw/1%er clubs for the most part keep the violence in the rival Motorcycle Club circle. Unless you are involved with them or have a death wish and chose to provoke hardcore bikers, the violence rarely spills out into the general public. That still goes on to this day. Declaring WAR is in their eyes just what it means. Last one breathing wins, nothing less, no exceptions, no rules. They have no fear of the consequences, that’s what makes them so dangerous in a confrontation. Jail, prison, or death means nothing to them and threats will actually encourage them to strike.

And always be aware of a 1%er or Outlaw Club prospect. He will be wearing a prospect patch or have no center patch, or an armband depending on the club. Members and Prospects are expected to behave in such a manner as to avoid discrediting or dishonoring the club, especially, but not only, when wearing colors. But 1% Prospects have been known to provoke trouble. Recognition is important for a prospect to “Patch Out”. But negative recognition can sometimes work against a prospect. Their structure is very much like the military and very political, they earn their patch the HARD way and will defend it to the death. If a 1%er or outlaw club members looses his colors, they will go to unbelievable lengths to recover them. And God help the one that has them, especially if there is no reason for having them. If the Police have them, they will take the police department to court and get their colors back if they need to. Usually the Police just save themselves the hassle and give them back. They always do get them back.

Until now, the outlaw element has been pretty much on its own.  (And as you know they  seldom wave at anyone. It is nothing personal and has nothing to do with the bike you ride. They also seldom wave at another outlaw club) The reality is, however, that 1%er/outlaw clubs aren’t quite like everyone else, it’s best to recognize and admit that up front. The outlaws are a society within a society, with their own rules, own codes of conduct, own ways of reacting to the world. It’s kinda like the building of a city further out into the wilderness areas. You are going to encounter new forms of life you didn’t know existed this close to you until now. Many of you are relatively new to the MC world and are just seeing it. The big bike sales has increased 52% in the last two years putting a tremendous amount of riders on the road, at rally’s, and on the web. Most riders paid no attention to 1%ers till they started entering the “Biker” world by flying colors just as 1%er’s/outlaws have since bike clubs began. Outlaws, 1%er’s, and motorcycle clubs in general have been around since the 30’s with some non-outlaw clubs such as  the “Gypsy M/C International” that was established in 1932.  It’s also been said that there was an all female M/C known as the “Motormaids” that was established in 1931. The “Boozefighters” Motorcycle Club was established in 1946. 

Be as patient and as tolerant as you can when in a situation where you are approached by outlaws. “RESPECT” is what they expect from you and nothing less.

NEVER be macho or show disrespect to 1%er / outlaws clubs. “People who don’t understand the chemistry and the volatility may get themselves into a situation way, way beyond anything they’re ready for.” That will cause a very explosive situation that no one wants to be in. Even if you don’t respect them, it would be in your best interest to show respect at the time of the encounter. Show respect to ANY club you encounter, outlaw or not.  There are some great clubs out there and not all the outlaw clubs are bad. It sometimes comes down to a particular member. Also try and be aware of where your officers are in case something comes up. 1%er’s (outlaws) only respond to male Officers of any club. Also, if outlaws are not on their bikes they will not always be flying any colors; it’s part of their laws. That makes it difficult to know who is who unless they are wearing a patch shirt that has the name of the club they ride with. So if you are at a cycle event or a biker bar, be careful what you say when talking to a stranger. Even if they look like the kid next door, you just never know.

An 1%er / outlaw could care less if he goes to jail, particularly if he is prospecting. If you make him mad, he will get your attention at any cost. And they don’t care WHO you are, an ex-1%er, a cop, an attorney, a body builder or a CEO. It don’t matter to them how tough you are or think you are. If you have pissed them off there will be trouble. I want to stress again, it’s not likely it will ever happen to you unless you travel those circles or challenge them when they are present. But at least you now have some type of awareness on what to do or not to do, so you are in control of your own actions. It is not always a good idea to approach them even if you are just being friendly. Outlaws are very suspicious of an approach by a stranger. However, some can be very friendly provided you don’t ask questions about their “business”.

Outlaws can also be a lot of fun to be around, and MAN can they party. Most clubs, including 1%er’s rarely give anyone any trouble unless they are provoked, you challenge them, or you show disrespect. I have acquired many outlaw/1%er friends over the years that are great guys and wouldn’t cause anyone any trouble as long as they or their brothers aren’t messed with. They are the kind of brothers you want beside you if the going gets tough. Once club members consider you a good friend they will try and recruit you to join their club.

The loyalty of brotherhood is the greatest strength of any club or friendship, and the club loyalty’s ALWAYS come first. And they won’t call the cops; they Take Care Of Business themselves. (You may see that on a patch that some earn.) In fact, history shows that outlaws or 1%er’s are less likely to testify against each other than the Mafia is. Not to mention they are certainly a special breed, and the brotherhood is as tight or tighter than any Mafia. 1%er’s have a death code for snitches, if you snitch against the club you will be hunted down. 1%er’s are so successful at doing this just recently after a federal agent had infiltrated one of the “Big Four” clubs and gave the feds all the incriminating evidence of murder and drug running conducted by the elite portion of that club. He then committed suicide knowing they would find him at any cost and torture him to death.

 “Riding clubs” are, for the most part, the new kids on the block and no matter what anyone thinks, the 1%er’s/outlaws will always be here, even when or if the riding craze is over. The greatest law enforcement in the world has had little effect on this type of organization, so you can do little but try and work things out and co-exist peacefully. I think we can ALL co-exist if we keep doing what we are doing. Making smart choices and having friends from all types of clubs. I know there are plenty of “Rights” arguments and debate in what I have written, but what you have read here is very real like it or not. We all have at least one thing in common, “Motorcycles” not to mention close friends!  I encourage you all to enjoy this life style by being knowledgeable of it. Learn and realize how dangerous this outlaw organization can be at times. This article has only scratched the surface in regard to the lifestyle or information that is available. And much information is only available when you live in that world.

Words from a Patchholder #3

Statement from a 1%er…

I enjoy reading the perceptions of 1%ers and MC’s and often get a laugh at some of the posts both here and on a couple of other forums dedicated to to THE LIFE, as it is often called here and there. I especially get a chuckle in regards to the misconception of different views of what is respect. Some advice is good and others are Hog wash. To avoid us is not respectful, to treat us as outcasts or like monsters is not respectful. Sometimes I expect to see villagers at my door carrying hay forks and torches. Forums like this for the most part do a good in the sense that it gives some insight into what we are about but on occasion it gives the impression that we are to be feared and are lurking to jump on someone, or anyone.
Example would be that I recently read a post on a seldom visited forum where some woman verbally attacked a known PH of some club for what seemed like no reason and not even on that threads subject. She could get away with it because we ARE NOT monsters. I’ve never known a man to hit a woman who wasn’t his own or associated with his club. To this she was brazen, if not disrespectful and puts her man in a very stupidly dangerous situation because if she had done it somewhere but behind the safety of a computer, at a rally event, or bar either a OL would have decked her or her OM would catch the brunt of the insult. I do not know the PH, I’m not even sure of his affiliation but I have seen his posts before and I think I’ve even seen them here before. He handled it with more finess than I would have I assure you. Men don’t get the same polite pass that some Broad might get. But the point is that we don’t go out of our way to call attention to ourselves. We police our own and don’t take kindly to interference from the so called establishment enforcers. Yes we live by a law, it is the law of FW 1 UFWA. Simply put You Fuc# with one, You Fu#@ with All. But as long as you live and ride in the Establishment built streets as we do you have little to fear from MC’s, unless you let your mouth overload your ass. My major point is simply this: Birds of a feather Flock together. We stay in and amongst our own kind. Even in the areas of mutual socialising you will see the MC’s together and the “Others” together. So why fear or even look away when there is eye contact. There seems to be some kind of opinion that the motorcycle community must give way to some kind of mysterious respect. The fact is we respect you, other than that we don’t think about you at all, until you bring it on yourselves by passing into our world. WE thrive and in some ways survive partially on the numbers of the ordinary riders now on the street. The cops can’t pass laws that screw us because they can’t pass laws that screw you the majority. They can’t openly harrass us for the same reason. Today I parked on the sidewalk at the mall. The security guard stopped me as I went inside and said he heard on his walky talky that it was about to be ticketed. I did not threaten to kill the cops family. I thanked him and moved the damn thing. I appreciated his warning. Just like any of you would have. In fact I straightened the guys clip on tie and we talked bikes for about 10 minutes. He rides a Honda. I complimented his choice. Would I ride one…Hell No! but he isn’t me, I’m not him and never the twain shall meet. He’ll be riding his while I’m wrenching mine. So what! His badge means he will never be apart of my world, my colors means I’ll never be apart of his. Now Understand! We are NOT at war with the world. At Rallies, Toy Runs even at the gas pumps when our worlds come together at the vortex, the type of respect we want is an understanding that we live a free open standard unlike anything most of you will ever conceive. But it is on the same streets with you all and WE respect that fact. Should you pass the picket at our campsite without stopping to be recognized?….Not unless you have a death wish. Should you come into a bar where all kinds meet and have a beer? Sure. Should you insult out standards with your RC Patches and show us attitude? The answer is this, cross the line into our world and you cross the line into a different set of standards. You cross that line and you change the rules for yourselves and us to. We are much more patient with ignorance than we are with an attitude that belongs in the “Outside” world. Bring it inside our world and you may either be faced with leaving it there (forever)or having it thrown back into the street attached to the seat of your pants. We do Not defend space, we defend our right to do as we please. Join in if you like but don’t drag your standards in with you. We don’t care about what you perceive as “Your Rights”. In our world you have no “Rights” to cross the line and set your standards on our space. You can pet the bear, but don’t slap him. Play gentle and so will we…..everytime. AND please remember, a man in our world is judged along side the manners of his woman. Keep her in check. It ain’t her ass she’s putting on the line. Just random thoughts for a night of insomnia.

History of MC Clubs

A Brief History of “Outlaw” Motorcycle Clubs

William L. Dulaney

Little scholarly research exists which addresses outlaw motorcycle clubs. These works attempt to explore warring factions of outlaw clubs, provide club members’ perspectives about media portrayal, expose myths, and elucidate motorcycle club culture.*1 The literature reveals gaps which leave many unanswered questions: Where do outlaw motorcycle clubs come from? How did they start? How or why did they evolve into alleged international crime organizations? The few histories of outlaw motorcycle organizations date the origins of such clubs to around 1947 and tend to oversimplify the issues of why these clubs formed and who actually joined them. Histories such as these are built on foundations of weak evidence, rendering inconsequential the origins of the subculture and relegating members of early organizations to the marginal status of “malcontents on the edge of society, and other antisocial types who just wanted to raise hell” (Valentine 147). This article extends current research by reaching back nearly half a century before 1947 to link the dawn of motorcycle organizations with the present reality of outlaw motorcycle clubs. The overarching goal of the article is to offer a more comprehensive history, an evolutionary history that may allow for a better understanding of contemporary motorcycle subculture.

What follows is a taxonomy of social and historical factors affecting group formation of motorcycle clubs according to the following temporal classification:

1. Preformative period: 1901-1944, the genesis of social organization around motorcycling

2. Formative period: 1945-1957, social and historical events of the post-World War II era coalesced in the formation of outlaw motorcycle clubs, and

3. Transformative period: 1958-present.

Underpinning the primary and secondary historical data cited in this essay are in-depth interviews with and personal histories of long-time members of outlaw motorcycle clubs, both one-percent and non-one-percent organizations. This ethnographic study, conducted by the author, took place primarily in the southeastern United States (e.g., Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, and West Virginia) from June 2000 through May 2004, but extensive participant observations took place in Texas, New York, Indiana, Ohio, Arkansas, Utah, Arizona, and California while attending regional and national motorcycle club gatherings. *2

Finally, a point of clarification is in order. For the purposes of this essay the term outlaw is used to describe motorcycling organizations that are not affiliated with the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), and the name of a specific motorcycling organization (i.e. the Outlaws Motorcycle Club). It is important to note that for the purposes of this essay the term outlaw does not, in and of itself, refer to the breaking of law. However, when used in the context of describing “one-percent” motorcycle clubs, which are defined in detail below, the term takes on a more ominous tone. It is not my intention to suggest that the term outlaw is synonymous with illegal endeavor; rather, I wish to outline important differences and commonalities between one-percent and outlaw motorcycle clubs

https://web.archive.org/web/20180424010711/http://ijms.nova.edu/November2005/IJMS_Artcl.Dulaney.html

Clubs and Tribalism

How do clubs fit in as modern tribes…here is a great excerpt so folks can see Im not off with this….from the above source…and there are MANY

1. Cultures must have clear-cut and well-expressed rules of conduct. What to do and what is taboo must be shown in unmistakable terms. A rule of conduct that states that anything goes is not a rule. It is an absence of a rule. It is a rule against having rules. There is no such thing as a null culture, a culture without individual freedom restriction. Anarchy is not a culture.

2. A successful culture will provide for the teaching of its rules to its members. The time-honored method of teaching a culture is the family system. Parents obey the personal restrictions of their culture and teach their children to do so. School augmentation insures completeness and uniformity. Some rules are also so important that they must be codified into criminal law.

3. A culture must hold its members responsible for their own actions. The instant that the culture is used as a basis for the breaking of the cultural rules, that culture ceases to exist. The instant that the breaking of rules by one is allowed to be justified by the actions of another, then it ceases being a rule of the culture. The purpose of a rule in a culture is to obtain predictable behavior. If it does not, then the rule becomes invalid. If enough rules are thus declared invalid, then the culture, which consists of these rules, also becomes invalid.

4. The culture must satisfy tribal instincts. If a culture exists, it must have a reason for existing. The only valid reason for a particular culture is that it provides a value for its members perceived by them to be greater than that offered by any other culture. It must differentiate in some manner. If a member of a culture is not loyal to that culture, he should move to a culture in which he is comfortable or abandon all culture. Remaining in a culture (or being allowed to do so) while antagonistic to it is not acceptable in any culture. If many members rebel, the culture collapses, as can be seen in the American culture today. The only successful cultures in America today (if there are any) are the subcultures. Only there can the tribal instincts be served.

5. To be a successful culture, one that provides a dependable environment for all members, rules that describe all human interaction must be provided. These standards include language, dress, ethical values, life philosophy, family structures, customs, music, art, sexual behavior in and out of wedlock, even facial expressions. Each such rule should be required only for species comfort and longevity. No rule should exist which allows the unbridled satisfaction of any instinct.

6. A culture is useless if it does not enforce its rules. A culture that defies its own rules, is a con. It has a purpose other than the health and well-being of its members. A culture that espouses a set of cultural rules that it has no intention of following, is a hollow culture. Living in a hypocritical manner is worse than anarchy. Such a culture mocks itself.

7. A culture that does not condemn those who do not abide by its rules has no meaning.

8. A culture based on knowledge and reason must not have any rule without basis. Every rule must be backed up with an intellectual reason for being. This is absent in all current cultures.

Compassion is emotionally driven, and is an instinct (as are all other cultural forces). When it was developed by evolution, it was a survival tool. The tribe that showed compassion between its members could survive better than one that consisted of selfish individuals. Their world was a harsh and dangerous one. Accidents and sicknesses were common. Floods and famines were common. When an adult was sick or hurt, others helped him care for his children. Food was shared during food shortages. Sympathy, empathy, family love, tribal love, and tribal cooperation are all part of this survival aid. This instinct is under siege. It was successful if it reacted within a small group. When welfare is provided with personal contact, there is a repayment in personal pride and satisfaction, a joy in seeing the results of the sacrifice. When the tribes became huge so that personal contact was lost outside the immediate family, this instinct failed on any charity outside the immediate family. Now that the family unit is also disintegrating, antagonism rather than cooperation is becoming the norm in all social interactions. The modern teaching of personal rights (I have my rights and you are supposed to be tolerant of whatever I do) as opposed to personal cooperation, causes compassion to fall into disuse. Even our government works against the instinct for compassion by taking our money at gunpoint and giving it to a stranger (who we suspect is undeserving) and doing it inefficiently as well. This instinct is falling into disuse (due to lack of personal compassionate behavior). Mutations are occurring which are degrading that instinct. Since we have a population that is increasing rapidly, natural selection will recognize this degradation as successful and spread it around in the gene pool so that everyone will eventually become demanding and hostile toward his neighbor.

AMA and 1%

History of the three-piece patch

     The AMA was founded in 1924 as an organizing arm of Motorcycle Manufacturers and mainly supported by the Motorcycle Manufacturers to promote motorcycle riding in America. They sanctioned groups of riders from the same area that rode together as motorcycle “clubs”. Some wore complete matching dress outfits with the name of their motorcycle club stitched on the back of their shirts and jackets.

At events, the AMA gave awards for the best-dressed club so this was the start of motorcycle club’s patches.

During an event in 1947 in Hollister, CA when a member of the Booze Fighters Motorcycle Club made the headlines with an exaggerated news story that was later made into a movie called “The Wild Ones”.

The AMA wrote an article in their magazine, shortly after this stating, “99% of all of their members are law-abiding citizens and only 1% are “outlaw””. This then, began what is today known as Outlaw Motorcycle Clubs and one percenters. Clubs that were not sanctioned by the AMA and non-members of the AMA were banned from attending AMA events.

     In order to designate themselves as an outlaw club to all other clubs, the one percenters cut their club patches into three separate pieces. The top rocker was the name of the club, the center was the emblem of the club, and the bottom rocker was the local from which they came.  These outlaw motorcycle clubs put on their own events and parties and did the opposite of what the AMA had been doing. There were no Best Dressed awards, they “chopped” down their bikes to go faster and look different, rode with no mufflers, they would drink, and do other “wild” things. Such is history.

     The term “colors” is used in referring to a motorcycle clubs’ patch set up. In the case of a 3 piece, One is placed over the top of the middle large graphic patch and one placed underneath it. The “rockers” are usually curved bars with the top bar designating the club name and the lower bar designating the location of the club. The two rockers are separate from the middle, larger graphic type patch, hence the term three-piece patch. Motorcycle clubs differ from motorcycling organizations as they traditionally have “prospecting” time required before the club members decide whether the individual will be accepted into the group and allowed to wear or “fly” the “colors” of the group. Most club “colors” will also have M/C printed on the “rocker”  or a seperate “cube” patch with MC on it to further clarify it as a club rather than an organization.

  Many national organizations in the early 1980’s set policy to unite their “rockers” with their patch to make it one piece to avoid any designation or confusion within the motorcycling club community. H.O.G. (Harley Owners Group) is one example.

*****************************************************************************  

As motorcycle club patches are recognized today:

• A one-piece patch normally signifies a family club or Social motorcycle club when it’s done with respect to the area clubs.

• A two-piece patch can have many different meanings as long as it’s done with respect to the area clubs.

• A three-piece patch normally means that the club is a Traditional MC club.  With the top rocker being the club name, the middle being their patch and the bottom being the territory they exist in.   There are also a few 3pc patch clubs where the bottom rocker has something other than territory, such as a saying.  The traditional MC is one that adheres to the protocols and traditions established.  There are few exceptions, but, traditional clubs are approved by the local dominant.  The traditional 3pc patch club is not necessarily a 1% club or even the dominant club. 

The Diamond patch with “1%”  or “13” worn with the 3pc back patch signifies the club is a 1% or 1% support club. 
While rare, they may not be the dominant club for the area but will be sanctioned by the local dominant.  There are also a few areas where the lead club is not a 1% club, but those are few.

When one is just is hanging around, he has no part of the patch. Then when he is sponsored by a full member and approved by the club as a prospect he may wear the lower rocker that only says “Prospect”. In some areas, the prospect wears the “Prospect” rocker at the top of the vest.  Some clubs even allow the lower rocker saying prospect and the upper rocker with the club name but not the main patch.  Different clubs do things differently across the country. Different rocker combinations of what a prospect might wear differs depending on each club.
If he is approved after his prospect time has been determined to be over and the vote goes in his favor, he then is allowed to have the full colors and is considered to be a full member, having all three pieces if that club uses the 3 piece patch. 

Nomad Rocker…..

Some MCs entitle a Member to wear a “NOMAD” bottom rocker.  This is only when that member continues to exhibit a lifestyle within the common definition of the word nomad.  

no·mad   A member of a group of people who have no fixed home and move according to the seasons from place to place in search of food, water, and grazing land.

A person with no fixed residence who roams about; a wanderer.

It is a valued distinction of lifestyle that only a few can truly live up to, and as such, causes unfavorable notice when seen used by those most obviously not living up to the common meaning. By definition a “NOMAD”, more often than not, will be traveling alone and needs an ability to represent, maintain & otherwise survive under circumstances unusual from the norm.

Brother

The word “Brother” has become very abused in the motorcycle world these days.  Seems like if you buy a bike and a new set of leathers, everyone else that rides has now become your brother.  Some call it Brotherhood when sharing the wind on two wheels.  Some call it brotherhood when you ride a few roads together.  Just what truly is brotherhood?

There are Brothers in Christ.  Brothers in Masonic temples.  Brothers in several organizations.   Elite military units commonly form a brotherhood among the members of squads.  Navy Seals for example, are more than the sum of their individuals.  They become more than just a team.  They become brothers, totally committed to one another up to and including giving their lives for one another if necessary.  Men that have shared combat together have formed such close relationships as to call each other brother. While these are no less committed than any other Brotherhoods, when it comes to the motorcycle world, there is also a very strong bond among those that call themselves Brothers. 

What is a Brother in the MC world? 

Once you’ve gone through the hangaround period, the members of the Club have viewed your behavior, your attitude, your dedication, trust and loyalty, to be there.  If you’ve actually completed this period, then you may be asked to become a prospect.  During this time you are put under a much more intense review.  You and the other members of the club find out if you are suited to be a part of the club and if you can accept the other members as Brothers just as much as if they can accept you and call you Brother.  Can you dedicate yourself to the others as close as you would your own flesh and blood? Many times it is an even closer commitment than family.  The person that you call Brother becomes family as a part of his as well as you being a part of theirs.  A common phrase used in MC circles is  ”I am my Brother’s keeper”.  This means you will support him and help him any way you can, sometimes to the point of selling your bike to help him, quitting your job to go help him and, in some cases, Brothers have even done things that they already know could get them put in jail because they were willing to take that step to help a Brother out.

With all that commitment, it’s also that you would not ask a Brother to do something drastic without very good cause.  Brothers may disagree, but they will always respect one another and treat each other with respect.

Please take note that if you haven’t had any experience being around some of the more serious MC’s (1%, support clubs, etc.), they take the word “Brother, or Bro” very serious, and they’ll only use the word as a show of respect towards their own club, their members, and any club who they’ve also bestowed that word upon. 

And if a club overhears someone throwing around the word lightly within their midst, it could cause them to aggressively educate those whom they felt disrespected them by abusing the word.

Next time you feel the need to call someone Brother or Bro, just what is behind it?  Commitment or just trying to sound cool?

Motorcycle Club

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

A motorcycle club (MC) is an organized club of dedicated 

motorcyclists who join together for 

camaraderie, strength of numbers, companionship, education, rider training, and socialization.

Contents1 Membership1.1 “Biker” clubs2 One Percenters3 Ninety-Nine Percenters4 Outlaw Motorcycle Clubs5 Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs6 Relationships between motorcycle clubs7 Motorcycle clubs in popular culture8 See also9 References10 Books and Newspaper Articles11 External links

Membership

Motorcycle clubs vary a great deal in their objectives and organizations.

Mainstream motorcycle clubs or associations typically have elected officers and directors, annual dues, and a regular publication. They may also sponsor annual or more frequent “rallies” where members can socialize and get to know each other. Some, such as BMW MOA and BMW RA annually publish in book form lists of members that can be used by touring motorcyclists needing assistance.

There are a great many motorcycle riding clubs, including those sponsored by various manufacturers, such as the Harley Owners Group and the Honda Riders Club of America. Large national independent motorcycle clubs, such as BMW Motorcycle Owners of America, BMW Riders Association, the STAR Touring and Riding Association, and the Gold Wing Road Riders Association (GWRRA), are abundant. Other riding clubs exist for a specific purpose, such as the Patriot Guard Riders, who provide funeral escorts for military veterans.

The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) is the largest American motorcyclist organization. It serves as an umbrella organization for local clubs and sporting events. As of March, 2006, the AMA counts 269,884 active members and many chartered clubs.^[1]

Clubs can include police, military, and firefighter clubs (or a combination thereof) such as the Iron Pigs MC, Steelhorse Posse MC, Iron Warriors MC, Shamrocks MC, Blue Knights MC, Defenders MC, Red Knights MC, Choir Boys MC, Knights Paladin MC, Dragonslayers FF MC, and Wind and Fire MC. Some Clubs claim to be “Law Enforcement Motorcycle Clubs” (LEMC’s). An authentic LEMC consists of at least 75% Law Enforcement members^{[citation needed]} and every Officer in the Club is a Law Enforcement Officer.

Various military and veterans MCs include the Armed Forces of America MC, U.S. Military Vets MC, the Vietnam Vets/Legacy Vets MC, the Proud Few MC, the Leathernecks MC, American Badgers MC, Veterans of Vietnam MC, Rolling Thunder MC, and the Buffalo Soldiers MC. Still other MCs include the Boozefighters and the San Francisco MC. One online directory of MCs lists 216 clubs.^[2]

“Biker” clubs

In some “biker” clubs, as part of becoming a full member, an individual must pass a vote of the membership and swear some level of allegiance to the club. Some clubs has a unique club patch (or patches) adorned with the term “MC” that are worn on the rider’s vest, known as colors. The oldest motorcycle clubs in the U.S. are the Yonkers MC, founded in 1903, the San Francisco MC, founded 1904, and the Oakland MC.

Hells Angels MC New York City clubhouse

The typical internal organization of a motorcycle club consists of a president, vice president, treasurer, secretary, road captain, and sergeant-at-arms.^[3] Localized groups of a single, large MC are called chapters, and the first chapter established for an MC is referred to as the mother chapter. The president of the mother chapter serves as the president of the entire MC, and sets club policy on a variety of issues.

In these clubs, some amount of hazing may occur during the prospecting period, ranging from the mandatory performance of menial labor tasks for full patch members to sophomoric pranks, and, in the case of some outlaw motorcycle clubs, acts of civil disobedience or crime. During this time, the prospect may wear the club name on the back of their vest, but not the full logo, though this practice may vary from club to club. To become a full member, the prospect or probate must be voted on by the rest of the full club members. Successful admission usually requires more than a simple majority, and some clubs may reject a prospect or a probate for a single dissenting vote. A formal induction follows, in which the new member affirms his loyalty to the club and its members. The final logo patch is then awarded. Full members are often referred to as “full patch members” and the step of attaining full membership can be referred to as “being patched”.

Most of these one-percenter MCs do not allow women to become full-patch members, but women can hold special status with the club. Membership in what authorities term ‘Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs’ is often racist as well as sexist,^[4] and membership in the Hells Angels is closed to African-Americans^[5] [6], and Hispanics^[7] which have led to creation of rival gangs such as the Bandidos and the Mongols Motorcycle Club. MC members are not usually referred to by their given names, but instead refer to each other by nicknames, or road names, sometimes even displaying their road name on the club vest. Whether or not this practice was carried over from the military aviation history of colorful pilot callsigns is not known.

Larger motorcycle clubs for this type often acquire real estate for use as a clubhouse or private compound. These clubs often have security features such as closed-circuit television monitors, motion detector lights, and barbed wire-topped fences. As well, the clubhouse or compound walls may be reinforced materials such as plate steel or kevlar to provide ballistic protection.

The primary visual identification of a member of an MC is the vest adorned with a specific large club patch or patches, predominantly located in the middle of the back. The patch(es) will contain a club logo, the name of the club, and the letters “MC”, and a possible state, province, or other chapter identification. This garment and the patches themselves are referred to as the “colors”, or, sometimes, “cuts”, a term taken from the early practice of cutting the collars and/or sleeves from a denim or leather jacket. Many non-outlaw motorcycle riding clubs (as opposed to MCs) such as Harley Owners Group (HOG) also wear patches on the back of their jackets or vests, but the letters “MC” are nowhere to be seen on such patches. This is an important distinction, for only true Motorcycle Clubs sport the “MC” moniker. The 1% patch is what distinguishes the outlaw Motorcycle Clubs from normal Motorcycle Clubs. Motorcycle Associations or Rider Clubs are not allowed to wear the MC patch.

The colors worn by members of these clubs will either consist of a one-piece patch , two-piece patch,  or a three piece patch. The Three Piece Patch Set consists of the club logo and the top and bottom patches, usually crescent shaped, which are referred to as rockers. The number and arrangement of patches is somewhat indicative of the nature of the club. All true Motorcycle Clubs will have a three-piece patch arrangement. Not all (or even most) clubs sporting a three-piece patch are one-percenters, however. The club patches always remain property of the club itself, not the member, and only members are allowed to wear the club’s colors. A member must closely guard their colors, for allowing ones colors to fall into the hands of an outsider is an act of disgrace and may result in loss of membership in a club, or some other punishment. Contrary to recent popular belief, a 5 Piece Patch Set does not exist. The separate designation patch (MC, VC, SBR, etc) is sometimes called the CUBE Patch. Some clubs do not count it as part of the color set.

Law enforcement agencies have confiscated colors and other club paraphernalia of these types of clubs when they raid a clubhouse or the home of an MC member, and they often display these items at press conferences.^[8] These items are then used at trial to support prosecution assertions that MC members perform criminal acts on behalf of their club. Courts have found that the probative value of such items is far outweighed by their prejudicial effects on the defense. ^[9]

One Percenters

Members of motorcycle clubs are often viewed in a negative light by traditional society. This perception has been fueled by the movies, popular culture, and highly publicized incidents. One of the earliest and most notorious of these occurred in Hollister, California in 1947^[10] [11] and is now dubbed the Hollister riot. Whether or not an actual riot occurred is debatable, but there was a motorcycle rally in Hollister from July 4 to July 6 of that year that was attended by about 4000 people. Several newspaper articles were written that, according to some attendees, sensationalized the event and Life magazine ran an article and a staged photograph of an intoxicated subject on a motorcycle parked in a bar. The film The Wild One, starring Marlon Brando, was inspired by the event, and it became the first in a series of movies that depicted bikers and members of motorcycle clubs in this stereotypical manner. The press asked the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) to comment on the Hollister incident and their response^{[citation needed]} was that 99% of motorcyclists were law-abiding citizens, and the last one percent were outlaws. Thus was born the term, “one percenter”.

During the 1940s and 1950s, at rallies and gatherings sponsored by the AMA, prizes were awarded for nicest club uniform, prettiest motorcycle, and so forth. Some clubs, however, rejected the clean-cut image and adopted the “one-percenter” moniker, even going so far as to create a diamond shaped 1% patch to wear on their vests as a badge of honor. One-percenter clubs point out that the term “one-percenter” simply means that they are committed to “biking and brotherhood”, where riding is not just a weekend activity, but a way of living. These clubs assert that local and national law enforcement agencies have co-opted the term to paint them as criminals. Sonny Barger and others went even further than wearing the rhombus-shaped patch on their colors and had the symbol tattooed on their upper bodies. In his autobiography, Mr. Barger recalls how, early on (1950’s), there was an informal agreement amongst the one-percenters, regardless of gang affiliation, with certain guidelines such as “no stealing” (from each other), no “rat-packing” (on fellow one-percenters) and so forth. However, Sonny and his fellow members soon quit the “one-percenters club” because, as he describes it in his book, they felt that the other self-described one-percenters were not of equal status to the Hells Angels, and since a Hells Angel’s primary allegiance needed to be to his fellow Angels, there was no need or desire for any such further affiliation with this self-described group.^[12]

Ninety-Nine Percenters

While one-percenters garner much publicity for their activities and misdeeds, there are many, many more motorcycle clubs and bikers that instead identify as ninety-nine percenters, that is to say, not one-percenters. Indeed, as of March, 2006, the American Motorcyclist Association, an organization that is the very antithesis of one-percenters, counts 269,884 active members and many chartered clubs.^[13]

99%er MCs include police, military, and firefighter clubs (or a combination thereof) such as the Wheelmen LEMC, the Iron Pigs MC, Steelhorse Posse MC, Iron Warriors MC, Shamrocks MC, Blue Knights MC, Red Knights MC, Choir Boys MC, Knights Paladin MC, Dragonslayers FF MC, and Wind and Fire MC. Some Clubs claim to be “Law Enforcement Motorcycle Clubs” (LEMC’s) An authentic LEMC consists of at least 75% Law Enforcement members and every Officer in the Club is a Law Enforcement Officer.

Recently, however, the status of LEMC’s has seen much debate. Some LEMC’s “emulate” 1% clubs both in their practices and their creeds.

Various military and veterans MCs include the Armed Forces of America MC, U.S. Military Vets MC, the Vietnam Vets/Legacy Vets MC, the Proud Few MC, the Leathernecks MC, American Badgers MC, Veterans of Vietnam MC, Rolling Thunder MC, and the Buffalo Soldiers MC. Still other MCs include the Boozefighters, SBFreaks and the San Francisco MC. One online directory of MCs lists 216 clubs.^[14]

In addition to the many independent and “outlaw” MCs, there are a great many motorcycle riding clubs, including those sponsored by various manufacturers, such as the Harley Owners Group, Iron Indian Riders Association, Honda Riders Club of America, BMW Motorcycle Owners of America, and several others. Other riding clubs exist for a specific purpose, such as the Patriot Guard Riders, who provide funeral escorts for military veterans.

Furthermore, some groups define themselves as “associations”. These consist of persons from all backgrounds, to include law enforcement, fire and military, but are open to anyone. Although associations do parallel “MC” standards such as established by laws and prospecting members, they do not use MC on their colors. Associations try and maintain a friendly atmosphere with all clubs 1% or 99% but will never form an alliance with any club. In most cases associations will try to fall in line with “local biker politics” as long as they stay within the confines of the law. The association will err on the side of the law in all cases, especially those who have law enforcement as association officers. Examples of associations are South West Desert Riders El Paso TX.

Outlaw Motorcycle Clubs

Anthropologist Daniel R. Wolf, who wrote his PhD thesis based on original research done during his membership with the Rebels MC in Canada, defined an outlaw motorcycle club as, “technically,” … “a club that is not registered with the American Motorcycle Association (AMA) or the Canadian Motorcycle Association (CMA), which are the respective governing bodies for the sport of motorcycling in the United States and Canada. The AMA and CMA are themselves affiliated with the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM), the international coordinating body for motorcycling whose headquarters are located in Paris, France.”^[15] It is significant to note that this is a much broader definition than both the term “one-percenter”, and the one used by law enforcement agencies in describing what they now refer to as outlaw motorcycle gangs.

Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs

Both the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Criminal Intelligence Service Canada have designated four MCs as Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs (OMGs), which are the Pagans, Hells Angels, Outlaws MC, and Bandidos,^[16][17] known as the “Big Four”.^[18] These four have a large enough national impact to be prosecuted under the Federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations statute.^[19] The California Attorney General also lists the Mongols as an outlaw motorcycle gang.^[20][21] The FBI asserts that OMGs support themselves primarily through drug dealing, trafficking in stolen goods, and extortion, and that they fight over territory and the illegal drug trade.^[22] The Royal Canadian Mounted Police Gazette, quoting from the Provincial Court of Manitoba, defines these groups as: “Any group of motorcycle enthusiasts who have voluntarily made a commitment to band together and abide by their organizations’ rigorous rules enforced by violence, who engage in activities that bring them and their club into serious conflict with society and the law”.^[23]

The FBI asserts that OMG’s collect $1 billion in illegal income annually^[24][25] and that street gangs, prison gangs, and OMGs are the primary retail distributors of illegal drugs in the US,^[26][27] with OMGs dominating US meth trade distribution.^[28][29] In 1985^[30] a three-year, eleven-state FBI operation named Roughrider culminated in the largest OMG bust in history, with the confiscation of $2 million worth of illegal drugs, as well as an illegal arsenal of weapons, ranging from Uzi submachine guns to antitank weapons.^[31] In October, 2008, the FBI announced the end of a 6-month undercover operation by agents into the narcotics trafficking by the Mongols Motorcycle Gang. The bust went down with 160 search warrants and 110 arrest warrants. The Mongols, a latino gang formed due to the Hell’s Angels refusal to admit hispanics, was named after the Asian warriors, and has had chapters become subject to rule by the Mexican Mafia prison gang. Reports say many Mongols were admitted from lesser Mexican Mafia controlled street gangs, even without motorcycles, to assist in the drug trade between Mexico, California, and Canada. ^[32]

Canada, especially, has in the past two decades experienced a significant upsurge in crime involving outlaw motorcycle gangs, most notably in what has been dubbed the Quebec Biker war, which has involved more than 150 murders^[33] (plus a young bystander killed by an exploding car bomb), 84 bombings, and 130 cases of arson.^[34] The increased violence in Canada has been attributed to turf wars over the illegal drug trafficking business, specifically relating to access to the Port of Montreal^[35] , but also as the Hells Angels have sought to obtain control of the street level trade from other rival and/or independent gangs in various regions of Canada.^[36]

Members and supporters of these clubs insist that illegal activities are isolated occurrences and that they, as a whole, are not criminal organizations. They often compare themselves to police departments, wherein the occasional “bad cop” does not make a police department a criminal organization. One biker website has a news section devoted to “cops gone bad” to support their point of view,^[37] and the Hells Angels sponsors charitable events for Toys for Tots. ^[38]

Relationships between motorcycle clubs

In the United States, many MCs have established state-wide MC confederations. These confederations are composed of MCs who have chapters in the state, and the occasional interested third party organization. The confederation holds periodic meetings on neutral ground, wherein representatives from each club (usually the presidents and vice-presidents, but not always) meet in closed session to resolve disputes between clubs and discuss issues of common interest.

The largest one-percent club tends to dominate the confederation, using their numbers to impose their will on other clubs. Sometimes clubs are forced into, or willingly accept, “support” roles for a one-percent club. Smaller clubs who resist a large one-percent club have been forcibly disbanded, e.g. told to hand over their colors or risk war. ^[39] With the exception of Law Enforcement Clubs^{[citation needed]} , smaller clubs usually comply, since members of a family club are usually unwilling to risk injury or worse. Another tactic used by one-percent clubs is to force smaller clubs to join the AMA and wear an AMA patch. This is considered an act of shame by some clubs, and a club thus forced may wear an upside-down AMA patch on their colors as a form of protest and to retain their dignity.

Certain large one-percent MCs are rivals with each other and will fight over territory and other issues. In 2002, members of the Mongols MC and the Hells Angels MC had a confrontation in Laughlin, Nevada at the Harrah’s Laughlin Casino that left three bikers dead. ^[40] Another melee, this time between the Hells Angels and the Pagans MC, occurred in February, 2002 at a Hells Angels convention in Long Island, New York. Police reports indicate the Pagans were outraged that the event was held on what they considered their “home turf”.^[41]

The local COC (Coalition of Clubs) has eliminated most of the inter-club rivalry. Club members tend to be older veterans, and given the cost of ownership of a Harley Dresser type motorcycle, increasingly well to do.

The “big 5” national 1% clubs tend to be territorial. Smaller clubs are allowed to form with the permission of the dominant regional club. Smaller clubs will usually be required to wear a “support” patch on their vests that shows their support for the dominant regional. Certain clubs are exempt from this requirement, such as the police clubs (“Blue Knights”) as well as the national “military only” clubs like the “US Military Vets MC”.

Certain organizations also sponsor clubs such as “HOG” (Harley Owners Group) and CMA (Christian Motorcycle Association). These are not considered “real” motorcycle clubs and can be easily differentiated from “real” clubs by the lack of “MC” (Motorcycle Club) or “MG” (Motorcycle Gang) on the back of their vests. When a bar or other establishment posts a “No Colors” sign, they are specifically targeting people with the “MC” or “MG” letters on the vest.

The incidence of drug dealing and illegal activities in the vast majority of MC’s mirrors the percentage of criminal behaviour in society as a whole. Most clubs are organized as a 501c charitable organization and provide money and support to a variety of charities. Typical events include “poker runs” and ’50-50′ raffles where a portion of the proceeds are donated to the clubs designated cause. Additionally the clubs provide support services and maintenance for members in the form of trailers, tools, etc.

The clubs also stress safety and rider skills. Most will have a “road captain” that is responsible for safe riding. The members will generally have a pre-run safety check where required equipment, tires, etc are checked. This is both for member safety and prevent giving the police any justification for stopping the pack. Most states have special provisions for “Funerals and Other Processions” that allow the pack as a whole to go through a signal light as long as the first bike entered the intersection legally under the green. Packs tend to ride “high & tight” to prevent other vehicles from attempting to ‘bull’ into the pack. This type of behaviour by a cage (car) is extremely dangerous to a pack and happens quite often, especially in larger runs (20+ bikes) Organized runs with large numbers will usually include “road guard” bikes who’s responsibility is to block intersections and roads to allow the pack to enter/exit the highway or turn as a unit. Biker clubs have long initiations and many ‘team building’ exercises to foster trust and confidence between members. Someone that has marginal riding skills will be relegated to the back of the pack until their skills are such that they are capable of riding without the risk of ‘bumping pegs’ with the other riders. Contrary to popular myth, most clubs don’t imbibe large amounts of alcohol until the end of the run.

Motorcycle clubs in popular culture

Part of the mystique surrounding MCs has been driven by books, movies and television, beginning with the so-called Hollister riot in 1947, about which two articles appeared in the San Francisco Chronicle, and another in Life Magazine featuring a large staged photograph of an intoxicated subject on a motorcycle parked in a bar.

A series of biker movies followed, beginning with The Wild One, starring Marlon Brando, and culminating with the award-winning Easy Rider, with its iconic Captain America chopper. Many of these were B movies, a staple of 1960s drive-in theaters. In 1966, Hunter S. Thompson (who later started the movement known as gonzo journalism) wrote Hell’s Angels: The Strange and Terrible Saga of the Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs, giving readers their first inside glimpse into the most notorious motorcycle club of all.

The 1969 Altamont Free Concert incident thrust the Hells Angels front and center for the killing of a concert-goer by a Hells Angels member, Alan Passaro, who was, along with other club members, by some reports, providing security for the Rolling Stones at the event. Meredith Hunter, was stabbed multiple times by Passaro and other Hells Angels members. Film evidence later showed that Meredith Hunter was holding a gun. Passaro was charged with murder but was later found to be acting in self-defense and acquitted.

Since Hunter S. Thompson’s ground-breaking book, more books have followed, including former Angels president Sonny Barger‘s, Hell’s Angel: The Life and Times of Sonny Barger and the Hell’s Angels Motorcycle Club, and, more recently, Edward Winterhalder‘s account of the Bandidos, Out In Bad Standings; Inside The Bandidos Motorcycle Club. William Queen‘s “Under and Alone: The True Story of the Undercover Agent Who Infiltrated America’s Most Violent Outlaw Motorcycle Gang”

The Discovery Channel has featured looks inside several MCs including the Devil Dolls. The film Beyond the Law is based on the true story of Dan Black, an undercover officer who infiltrated a one-percenter MC. The 2007 Disney film Wild Hogs tells the story of four friends who have an encounter with the fictional Del Fuegos MC. The original script used the Hells Angels, causing the Hells Angels to sue Disney for trademark infringement.^[42]

The new FX television series Sons Of Anarchy follows the exploits of the fictional outlaw motorcycle club SAMCRO, or Sons of Anarchy Motorcycle Club Redwood Original.

Ride to Hell is an upcoming video game, set on the West Coast in the 1960s, where the player will live and fight in the early years of the oulaw motorcycle clubs’ underworld.

References

1. ^ AMA Newsroom: Facts and Figures, retrieved September 10, 2007
2. ^ Motorcycle Club Index, retrieved September 25, 2007
3. ^ 1% – Example of Bylaws– Motorcycle Club and Riding Club Education]
4. ^ Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs– OZBiker.org
5. ^ Gangs in Maryland– University of Maryland
6. ^ Outlaw Motorcycle Groups– Laurier College
7. ^ Dozens of outlaw bikers arrested in ATF sting– MSNBC.com, Oct 21, 2008
8. ^ Five charged in murders of eight Bandidos bikers– CTV.ca, June 10, 2006, Retrieved October 10, 2007
9. ^ The United States Court of Appeals For the Seventh Circuit, Case Nos. 95-2829 and 95-2879; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, Plaintiff-Appellee, v. JOHN E. IRVIN and THOMAS E. PASTOR, Defendants-Appellants
10. ^ Dougherty, C.I. (1947–07-05). “Motorcyclists Take Over Town, Many Injured“, San Francisco Chronicle. Retrieved on 24 October 2007.
11. ^ Dougherty, C.I. (1947–07-06). “2000 ‘Gypsycycles’ Chug Out of Town and the Natives Sigh ‘Never Again’“, San Francisco Chronicle. Retrieved on 24 October 2007.
12. ^ Hell’s Angel: The Life and Times of Ralph “Sonny” Barger and the Hell’s Angels Motorcycle Club [1]
13. ^ AMA Newsroom: Facts and Figures, retrieved September 10, 2007
14. ^ Motorcycle Club Index, retrieved September 25, 2007
15. ^ The Rebels: A Brotherhood of Outlaw Bikers, by Daniel R. Wolf, University of Toronto Press, 1991
16. ^ FBI Safe Street Violent Crime Initiative – Report Fiscal Year 2000– FBI.org
17. ^ 2004 Annual Report– Criminal Intelligence Service Canada, cisc.gc.ca
18. ^ Motorcycle Gangs– Connecticut Gang Investigators Association
19. ^ 2004 Annual Report– Criminal Intelligence Service Canada (CISC), cisc.gc.ca
20. ^ Organized Crime in California – 2004 Annual Report to the Legislature– California Department of Justice
21. ^ Dozens of outlaw bikers arrested in ATF sting– MSBNC.com, October 21, 2008
22. ^ Organized Crime Investigation– by T. O’Connor, Austin PEA State University
23. ^ Organized Crime Fact Sheet– Public Safety Canada
24. ^ The Hells Angels’ Devilish Business– CNN.com, November 30, 1992
25. ^ Biker Gangs in Canada– CBC News, April 5, 2007
26. ^ Narcotics Digest, Gangs In The United States– the National Gang Center
27. ^ Comprehensively Combating Methamphetamine: Impact on Health and the Environment– DEA Deputy Chief Joseph Rannazzisi, congressional testimony on October 20, 2005
28. ^ The Hells Angels’ Devilish Business– by Andrew E. Serwer, Fortune Magazine, November 30, 1992
29. ^ Sonny Barger Kicks Starts Life as a Free Man by Violating Parole– by Philip Martin, Phoenix New Times, December 2, 1992.
30. ^ Sonny Barger Kicks Starts Life as a Free Man by Violating Parole– by Philip Martin, Phoenix New Times, December 2, 1992
31. ^ Busting Hell’s Angels– Time Magazine, May 13, 1985
32. ^ Dozens of Outlaw Bikers Arrested in ATF Sting.– MSNBC.com, October 21, 2008
33. ^ Was Noye case witness killed by Hell’s Angels?– Guardian Observer, October 15, 2000
34. ^ Organized Crime Fact Sheet– Public Safety Canada
35. ^ The Biker Trials: Bringing Down the Hells Angels, by Paul Cherry, ECW Press, 2005
36. ^ Fallen Angel: The Unlikely Rise of Walter Stadnick in the Canadian Hells Angels, by Jerry Langton, Wiley & Sons, 2006
37. ^ Cops Gone Bad– Bikernews.net
38. ^ Storm Approaching– by Michael Jamison, The Missoulian, July 2000
39. ^ Ex-Hells Angels official says cops kept out of club– by Adrienne Packer, Las Vegas Review-Journal, October 5, 2006
40. ^ Laughlin Shootout: Signs told of melee in making– by Glenn Puit and Dave Berns, Las Vegas Review Journal, April 30, 2002
41. ^ 73 Bikers Arrested– New York Times, March 13, 2002
42. ^ Hells Angels sue Disney over film– BBC.com, March 11, 2006. HAMC vs Walt Disney

Books and Newspaper Articles

• Hayes, Bill. The Original Wild Ones: Tales of The Boozefighters Motorcycle Club, Est. 1946. St. Paul, MN: Motorbooks, 2005.
• Veno, Arthur, The Mammoth Book of Bikers, Constable & Robinson, 2007 (ISBN 0-7867-2046-8)
• Vieth, Errol, “Angels in the Media: Constructing Outlaw Motorcyclists”, in Consent and Consensus, edited by Denis Cryle and Jean Hiliier, Perth, API Network, 2005, 97–116 (ISBN 1-920845-12-7).
• Winterhalder, Edward, Out in Bad Standings: Inside the Bandidos Motorcycle Club – The Making of a Worldwide Dynasty, Blockhead City Press, 2005/Seven Locks Press, 2007 (ISBN 0-9771-7470-0)
• Winterhalder, Edward, & De Clercq, Wil, The Assimilation: Rock Machine Become Bandidos – Bikers United Against the Hells Angels, ECW Press, 2008 (ISBN 1-5502-2824-2)

https://archive.is/o/uTJqb/money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/fortune_archive/1992/11/30/77184/index.htm

General Info of Interest

I am a paramedic and at accidents it has occasionally been necessary to cut a rider’s leathers off for medical treatment.  Will patchholders be offended if we have to cut a member’s vest?

A few thoughts from the “old school” way….

If a club member is dead from a MVA, etc., the colors don’t die. And if a member does die, his colors better not wind up being all chopped up, because as a sign of his club’s respect and brotherhood to him, the club normally buries him with his colors on. If his injuries wind up not being too serious after all, or if he recovers later on, he’s probably going to be mighty pissed if his colors were desecrated.

Just something to think about here…. if a member has been hurt or even killed, because of a stupid act of negligence on the part of a cager, or a CSW (Club Sanctioned War) over a turf battle, etc, his club’s members are already going to be enraged (and certainly aren’t going to be thinking clearly), so even the slightest little innocent thing (like cutting his colors off him), could very well be perceived as a snub to their club and would not sit well with them.

Also, another thing to think about, is that although some of the small newer clubs keep their jacket and colors looking real nice and spiffy (a few older clubs are starting to lean towards this new trend too), that if you happen to see one of the “big 4” clubs around, make sure to take note to look at the jacket & colors of their oldest, longest members. “The worse his colors and jacket looks, the prouder that owner is of his colors” and the more the other members will look up to him with respect.

Anyway, I think the safest way to cut a denim jacket or leather vest off a patcholder, is to just carefully cut straight up the left and right side seam’s stitching that’s already there. And since most MC’s jackets will already have their sleeves cut off, you shouldn’t have to cut the shoulder line, just try sliding the jacket away from him.

By doing it that way, any cleaners/tailor can re-stitch those same seams again in about 5 minutes and it will look just as good as “new”. If it happens to be an open-sided leather vest that has got the leather string zig-zag down the length, just cut off the leather string’s knot, & pull the string out of the eyelets. Most leather shops and shoe repair shops carry that leather string for about a buck each.  But if it looks to be a head, neck or spinal injury, then you’ll probably have to cut along the top shoulder line seam too.

And preserve his jacket. And I’m not positive about the different club protocols on this, but if possible, I’d present his colors first, to whoever was there from his club. I’d try to do it in the order of “chain of command” below (since colors are usually considered to be “club property”, I’d think that they should stay within his club first, even before his old lady or relative).

1. If conscious, give back to injured member

2. If unconscious, give to their Sgt-At-Arms

4. Club President

5. Club Vice President

6. Any of his club’s other officers

7. His club’s full patch member
8. His blood relative

Parking your bike

A common question is about parking your bike when a MC is there also.  It could be at the local bar/club, or at events.

If a MC shows up, they will normally park their bikes together.  Often times there will be a prospect watching over them.  Park where you can, but, don’t go parking right in their midst or at the end of their line.  You don’t have to park around back just because they may be parked in front.  If there is a problem, normally they will politly ask you to move.  There will only be problems if you show an attitude. 

If you are parked and see that they have parked all around your bike, then consider your bike safe.  If you are ready to leave,  it’s best to push your bike out of the group if possible, start it up and ride away.  If there is someone guarding the bikes, just let him know that it’s your bike and you are ready to leave.  If you do not see someone guarding the bikes, you can safely assume there will be someone watching them. They know where they park and when they may have to park with one or more bikes mixed in.  If you want to look at the different bikes, fine, do not touch.  Try not to knock any of theirs over……….

Too many people keep that stereotype of the bad ass clubber that’s always looking for trouble in their minds when dealing with clubs.  Club members have enough other things to worry about and normally will not give you and problems until you give them an attitude.  It all boils down to common courtesy.

Starting an MC

It’s been brought to my attention there are people trying to start their own clubs after reading this web site. I guess the several times it’s referenced wasn’t simple enough for some people.  So, i’ll put it simply……..

If you decide to start your own club, MC or otherwise, you MUST contact the local Lead MC Club and discuss it with them.  Period.  There is a few, VERY FEW, places that do not requires this, but the only way is to contact them.

It is generally seen as poor taste to decide to start your own club.  Basically, it tells them that you are trying to avoid paying your dues and avoid the learning of what they mean by respect, because there are already enough clubs in existence where you could be taught and bond with an existing brotherhood.  Everyone hears about the big clubs.  Few outside the lifestyle realize there are hundreds of smaller MCs across the country that are not 1% or even support clubs. I would recommend getting to know those in your area first.  Who knows, you might fit right in with one of them instead of trying to start your own.

Besides the fact that there does need to be some controls on who’s running around sporting backpatches and calling themselves an MC, the established clubs know what the situation is with other clubs and former clubs.  If you think the procedures are bad now, immagine if the government controlled clubs. Scary.

Lets say for instance you created a backpatch.  It happens to look a lot like a another club’s that has caused a lot of problems in the past.  You are wearing that into an are where other clubs mistake it for the troublemaking club and ……….. I think you can see where that is going………

Maybe the colors you use are representative of a rival club that your local has problems with. The colors used as well as the patch itself has meaning.

Maybe the name you choose is the name of a another club from the past that disbanded with honors or disbanded due to causing too many problems for the MC community. 

The MC community, despite the actions of some, does not want any more problems that may reflect on them that others may cause.  To do this, they keep some controls on who flys colors and wants to be sure they understand the different protocols involved.

While the web site has a LOT of information, it’s basic information and doesn’t cover many things that do not need to be known by the general public.  Someone starting a new club will be schooled in these more in depth protocols.

As a former military, I learned they had a certain way of doing things that while in the beginning you may not have understood and thought it was stupid, as you progressed in your time in, these stupid things slowly came to make more and more sense.  Something as simple as keeping your pants tucked into your boots seemed a bit silly at first, but, later you found there actually was a good reason for it.  Wearing green socks instead of white can save your life when in combat.

It’s the little things that going through the proper procedures can help prevent misunderstandings and can establish the reputation you will develop as a club.

Not to mention the fact that if you go through the proper procedures to get their blessing, you will have them on your side if there is any problems. 

Yes, the image of the Bad Ass biker is fading, but, it’s still there.  There are movies in Hollywood made every year that still use bikers to represent the bad ass.  TV shows still portray the Biker as the Bad Asses. Stone Cold – the movie – really portrayed bikers in a bad light.  Nash Bridges the TV show had the wrestler – Stone Cold Steve Austin as a bounty hunter……. he rode a bike.  The bike was a Suzuki, but most people did realize that.  Even Yamaha has used the tough guy image of the biker in commercials.  So, while the bad ass image is fading, it’s no where near gone.  MCs do not want people with that image to be flying colors and playing at being the bad ass.  This will not only bring heat down on the “club” that does it, but, brings heat down on all MC clubs.

As for the right to wear anything you want.  Wear a Cop uniform and see what happens.  Wear a military uniform with all the patches.  That’s a no no.  Freedom of speech isn’t so free.  Sure you can say anything you want, but, certain things can land you in jail.  Threaten the President and see what happens.  Tell someone you are going to kick their ass and you could wind up in court.  While you are there, wear a t-shirt that says Lawyers Suck and see what happens.  You have every right to wear that t-shirt, but is it a wise thing to do?

Reality of consequences of our actions sometimes overrides what we perceive as a right or privilege.

If you insist…………….

Why the control over new clubs

Why does the Dominant club control who wears back patches?

Many  are apparently impressed with how “bad” they are … there are people like that all over the world. They tend to gravitate together and form groups, gangs … whatever you want to label them. They can present a real problem in a society such as ours where intervention by law enforcement is an “after the fact” event. Every little batch of a dozen or so “bad bikers” would literally make it hell for “mom & pop” on their Goldwing to go ridin’ … or any citizen and his gal passing through would be at risk in any area “ruled” by such a collection of “bad asses”. There is really nothing of an effective preventive nature that the cops can do about such things … you can not arrest someone for what they “might” do, only for what they have already done. Like it or not, it really does not matter, because it does not change the reality … the thing that makes it safe for “Mom & Pop”, or the young citizen and his gal, to go essentially anywhere they please is the dominate club arrangement. Dominate clubs have a vested interest in ensuring undue attention is not focused upon the biker world … and they do not have “restrictions” on waiting until after the felony has been committed by some group of bozos to take action.

This arrangement works … and it neither wants nor needs your approval … it just “is”.

Second:

Bikers are not the most favored group in this world … again just reality … you can not believe that, but it will not affect the reality. The groups that have faced the brunt of the negative aspects of that reality over the years are those at the end of the spectrum that includes people whose “life” is the biker lifestyle, not the weekend rubbie.

The bottom line is that there is a whole subculture of our society that has paid the price, and continues to pay the price for the “lifestyle” that some want to live and that some want to emulate. It is their world and it is no different than any other subculture that has ever existed in history … to deny that, no matter how much one might not like it, is simply foolish. It is the equivalent of stepping willingly into a tribal culture in Africa and intentionally violating taboos held by the tribe just because you don’t believe in the same things they do. It is the equivalent of putting on a Rebel Flag and intentionally walking down the street in Compton or Watts … it may be legal, the Rebel Flag may be something we think is honorable beyond mention, but to intentionally fly that flag in the domain of those who see it as a sign of oppression is foolishness on the same order as wearing a black power T-shirt at a KKK meeting.

Finally, I have met some truly “bad” individuals in my lifetime … and they seldom feel the need to advertise how “bad” they are … just my observation that those who “think” they are “bad” eventually encounter someone with a bigger fist, bigger knife, or bigger gun …

John Q. Public does not care what bikers do within their own realm and for the most part can’t tell the difference between an outlaw club and a Christian riding association … they all have a patch and are on two wheels and they don’t give a hoot what the patch says.

MC members whose world is the biker culture end up answering for the behavior of all … I’ll give some examples from my own experience …

A local club, an old time MC, not an outlaw club, in an area I frequented at the time, has a biker campground … there are a lot of events held there … the area around it has grown up with a collection of bedroom community homes on like 3-5 acres … the county road into the place goes past several such home sites … there are signs as soon as you turn onto the county road asking bikers to keep the speed and noise down to a reasonable level … I attended three or four secular biker events at that location one year, and there was no complaints from the neighbors. Then I attended a local Christian Biker function at the campground. Two or three “new” members “new” to “being biker types” (yes there are wannabees all over) were so proud of their loud pipes that they just had to show them off … ended up with the County Deputy showing up that night.

The locals did not give one hoot “who” caused this problem, it was simply bikers with a patch. It caused undue oversight for the local MC and everyone else that put on or attended an event there for several months afterward. It caused great damage to relationships made by that local MC with the locals and with the local LEOs.

For the other example, I’ll change all the names involved —

There was this local brand specific club … the Airfoil Ridin’ Fools (hopefully there ain’t no such group <BG>) … well the ARF boys have on all their weekend riding “biker atire” and go to a local tourist area, where they get a little loaded and start insulting tourists on the street … then they ended up causing a ruckus at a local bar.

Well the local business folks, local citizens, and the tourist don’t know ARF from a 1% club … but the locals do know there is a bunch of local 1% folks they don’t particularly like anyway … so they point fingers at the 1%rs. The local cops know it was not the 1%rs, but they know the people involved are really a bunch of rubs and such from a nearby town, that will just cause them grief if they try to press anything from a legal angle … and the city council is demanding the cops “do something”, so they have the perfect solution: make the local citizens and the city council happy by rousting a few 1%rs … and by promising the 1%rs that it will happen anytime and every time the LEOs get any heat about patch wearing “biker gangs”, they sort of set the stage to make sure the 1%rs are responsible for policing anyone in the area wearing a patch unless the local 1%rs want to answer for the actions of others.

These are real events, similar things happen all over the US and the world. That is the reality, anyone with a patch can cause any local group with any kind of patch to be a target for their actions, and the cops in general will target those who give them the most buck for a bang (no I did not mean bang for a buck … this is about money … you can get federal funds for helping “round up” 1%rs that are classified as “gangs” by the federal powers that be, there ain’t no money in rounding up a bunch of obnoxious ARF or wannabees).

How we started our RC

How we started our Motorcycle Riding Club

So you want to start a Riding Club or RC. There are many important things to know and expect.

 Many start ups are under the misconception that starting a Riding Club will be a path that will allow the club cruise under the radar of Motorcycle Club protocal or politics. As if a one piece patch tells the motorcycle world that we are merely a RC and have no club agenda other than to ride. If so, you may want to think twice about the way the Club world works.

 No one can tell you not to wear a patch. This is true, but……………. you will need to realize that wearing one without communication with the other Clubs in the area is not proper protical in the Club world. The world you are entering. So it would be in your best interest to find the local dominant MC or C.O.C. type organization in your area before you start flying your colors. Know that a one piece patch is still a patch. A Riding Club is still a Club.

 Colors are important to be aware of. Black or blue or red or whatever color you can think of are being used by other clubs. So you’ll need to be aware that another club, MC or RC, may be using the colors you want to use and would not be very happy to see a start up club showing up at events, or riding down the road looking similar to their or another established club. Alot of time, pride, honor and respect is represented by a Club’s colors and that is important to know and understand. It is important to them and they will most likely not have any problem letting you know that.

 Also know that it is a time taking process to make contact with the other clubs in your area. It can take longer than you ever expected. No one is going to come to you. You have not earned any respect and no one is obligated to meet your needs. It’s not your world. It’s theirs. This is important to know and understand. The sooner you accept that the better off you’ll be. So expect to do a lot of leg work. There are many people, Clubs and Organizations to get in contact with. – You may be asked some tough questions in some uncomfortable environments, so be prepared to answer them truthfully – The colors, logo and name all mean someting to not only you, but to others as well. Clubs will want to see your proposed patch. Making sure you don’t display anything that may be confused for another Club. That you are not using the name of a Club that came before you. Your colors, logo and name all fall under this scrutiny. So assuming you are looking to enter the motorcycle world in a proper and respectful manner these are some of the steps you can expect to take on your path to starting a Riding Club. You may have to swallow your pride in the process.

 Every Riding Club takes it’s own path and not all are the same. Many Clubs come and many Clubs go. How things go for you depends on where you live and sometimes who you know or don’t know. All clubs start with an idea, friends and often a cause. Some are noble ideas/causes and some are just for fun. Some are Social Clubs and some are Public Service Clubs. Either way that’s up to you.

 Knowing the basics is a good place to start. If you do choose to start your own RC it’s important to know what lay ahead of you. Respect is earned and you will be starting out at the bottom of the pile.

 Best of luck to you.

How we started our MC

Why You Should Talk To The Dominant Club First

Our area has the usual blend of MCs, RCs, MMs and such but we saw a place at the table for us and our ideas. In our case it also helped a bit that some of our guys had family in the dominant club of our area though we knew that it would earn us no favoritism. We sketched out an idea for a patch we would be proud to fly. We researched and wrote bylaws. When we thought we had our shit together, we gave the dominate club a call and told them we were kicking around starting an MC. Without hesitation he told us to drop by and bring whatever we had.

We showed up and were invited in. They told us where to sit and offered us a drink while we waited. A few minutes later, a very built, pissed off looking patch holder told us to make sure our phones were outside and get rid of any weapons. After a time, we were invited to an out-of-the-way room with four patch holders. They started by asking us why we wanted to start a club. Being new and somewhat naïve we told them simply that we’re just a group of guys who ride the piss out of what we own, wrench on what we own, that a brotherhood was born from this and we want to formalize it as a club. Then came the “why would you want to re-invent the wheel?” argument. Some of the founders of that club are still alive and active and didn’t take kindly to new clubs. They thought we’re “trying to be airborne without going to jump school”. In our neck of the woods, these guys started the biker culture and carved it out by years and years of work and here we are saying we don’t want to be part of the club they created. We made our case for how we are different than them and different from the existing clubs. That to be in the other clubs you have to ride a certain kind of bike, go to a church or be recovering from drugs and/or alcohol; that these clubs had very specific membership requirements that we as a group could not meet. We thought there was room in our area for a club that is just about riding, wrenching and the brotherhood that produces. We made the argument that we wouldn’t be limiting them for new members and that any of our guys who want to prospect for them would be encouraged to do so.

Then they asked to take a look at our patch design. We had originally come up with a single patch design that mimicked a three piece using ribbon banners (think pirate scrolls) instead of typical rockers knowing full well they probably weren’t going to go for it. We were right and they suggested what we could do instead. They explained some other elements that “might be seen as ripping off someone else’s design” and explained what might happen if one of these other clubs had a problem with it. So as far as our patch design, we had to go back to the drawing board and we were to come back with a new design. The scary guy (who not surprisingly turns out to be their Sergeant At Arms) graphically informed us of what would happen if we fly a patch they haven’t approved so of course we assured them all that was not going to happen.

Then they asked to take a look at our bylaws. Here they were extremely helpful suggesting we get rid of certain parts for certain reasons and suggested some changes based on their experience and what works for them. Then came the discussion of club colors. You don’t have to research long to find that most basic color combinations are taken so it’s pretty hard to nail one. Other clubs in the area are allowed to use one color from the dominate club but we wanted our own. A patch holder made a suggestion of a color combination not typically used and we took it knowing there was a reason that particular pairing was available. We figured the elements of our patch could probably dispel any confusion about our colors and who we are.

After what seemed like forever of sketching out new ideas for the patch and endless discussion over bylaws, we went back to the dominate club to show them what we had. They asked us a few questions of why we chose the elements we did and what they mean to us. They looked over our bylaws again and told us to have a proof patch made and to show up with it in hand on a certain day for them to vote on it. We did as instructed. We were told we could drop it off and they would call to let us know how it turned out or we could wait. There was no way in hell we were going to leave without knowing so we stood outside in the mid 20 degree weather with the prospects and hang-arounds waiting to be told to come in. Three and a half hours later we were invited back in and told we were approved. The club accepted us in, shook our hands and congratulated us. If there was any dissent within their membership it wasn’t obvious and to this day, no member of that club has ever eluded to it. It was the beginning of a respectful relationship. They treat us good, we treat them better and we have never given them a reason to treat us worse. They’ve been nothing but helpful to us so we treat them with nothing but respect while still knowing never to confuse their kindness with weakness.

This is by no means an outline of what you can expect should you choose pursue a patch for your club. Different clubs will have different philosophies about new clubs. Your area may already have an over abundance of smaller clubs so adding more makes attracting new members for the established clubs harder. How you conduct yourselves will undoubtedly have an impact on your outcome.

I took time to write about this because I see a lot of resentment from new clubs and wannbes towards the idea of getting permission from your local dominate club. This attitude of “Who are they to tell us what we can or can’t do” seems pretty prominent. As you can see from our experience, what we thought was getting permission turned into a world of help that we needed. The bottom line for us is that they are the dominate club for a reason. They’ve been around longer than I’ve been alive. They know what’s going on in the patch holder world. We didn’t and we knew it so rather than pretend we’re something we’re not, we owned our ignorance.

You’ve heard the expression “It takes money to make money”. Well the same goes for respect, you have to show a little to get a little. We could have waved the Constitution and stood on American personal freedom like spoiled children, stamping our feet screaming “You’re not the boss of me” but we didn’t. We could have thrown that original patch design on our backs and dared someone to do something about it and hope the cops get our backs if someone did, but we didn’t. We didn’t want our first action as a club to be making enemies. Call us old fashioned but we respected our elders and being the men of integrity they are, they respected us right back. Why wouldn’t you want that for your club? Are you really so hellbent on having your way that you’re willing to shit where you eat? If you are then don’t expect a whole lot from the clubs that have paid their dues and shown the respect.

MCs and the Harley

Why is the HD the main bike of choice for a majority of MCs?

First, you have to know a little history of the HD company.  (see the links below).

Soldiers returning from WWII that used the HDs that the military bought, were now back in the US and wanting that same motorcycle they were used to using.  When these soldiers got together and formed MCs, it was the HD that they preferred.  Indian was basically the only other choice at that time. 

Honda’s didn’t really start showing up in the US market until the early 60s.  Hondas were not well thought of in the MC community, especially by many of those vetrans that had fought the Japanese.

One of the big advantages the HD had was that it was built in the US using the available US parts.  Many of these same parts were also used in the vehicles and farm equipment. 

To put it simply, they started the clubs using HD and it became the traditional bike to have. 

In recent years, there has been many MCs that have relaxed those traditions to include other brands, including foreign bikes.

MC Misconceptions

Organized crime, hit men, dirty deals, convicts.  These are terms you associate with bikers, members of outlaw motorcycle clubs.  I’m not talking about your everyday biker, but the clubs often dubbed “motorcycle gangs.”  You see them riding in packs on the freeway and it’s likely you cringe at the sight of them.  But have no fear, you have been deceived.

  For the past two years, I have been surrounded by this lifestyle and I am here to tell you it is not what you think it is.  Yes, motorcycle club members have undergone constant scrutiny for their lifestyle.  They have often been mistaken for “gangs” which are associated with criminal activity.  However, they are in fact clubs that conduct meetings and groups of motorcyclists who devote their time to a common interest: riding and having a good time.

  In the media, you’ll find the ideas of someone who is misinformed and has never even associated with members of motorcycle clubs.  Their claims are unfounded.  This is your only resource in learning about such a lifestyle until now.  If you’re curious about the true history of such clubs, I suggest you start looking for the source.  Your best bet is to check out the website of the most world-renowned motorcycle club:​History – Hells Angels MC World (hells-angels.com)  This club in particular has chapters all over the world.

  From my understanding, such clubs are more about earning and giving respect.  They are about commitment and loyalty.  Sure, members can be intimidating but they are people just like you and I.  They are your neighbors, your plumbers, your business partners.  At the end of the day, they go home to their wives and children.  Never in my life have I met men more dedicated and passionate.  They are men who come together sharing not only a common interest, but a lifestyle.  They protect each other and honor each other.

  Those who are misinformed will tell you they traffic illegal drugs and women.  You might even read somewhere that they prostitute their own girlfriends which is something I can personally say is a complete untruth.  A member’s old lady is considered property not in the sense that she can be bought, but that she is in a sense a part of the club and is to be respected for that reason.

  Yes, some outlaw motorcycle members have experience with frequent legal issues but it is wrong to assume that the majority of them do.  Did you ever stop to think that it is possible that it is because of the way society views this lifestyle that they are constantly being watched and observed by law enforcement?

  I hope that if not anything else, I have at least shed some light on the MC lifestyle.  Don’t be afraid.  Don’t judge based on anything but truth.

Terminology

AMA = American Motorcyclist Association

ABATE- An organization started by EasyRider Magazine to fight against discrimination toward motorcyclists, mostly helmet laws originally. Once represented American Brotherhood Against Tolterion Acts. Now ABATE has many other names from state to state such as American Brotherhood (or Bikers) Aimed Toward Education. Now fighting rights many issues well beyond helmet laws, and often helping charities. Membership most often a yearly dues for membership, and officers are elected from active membership. They often have local regions, areas, chapters, counties, to get be closer to members in a statewide group and provide local functions as well as state wide functions.

Ape Hangers = High handlebars so Biker’s hands are at or above their shoulder height

Backyard = Where you ride oftenBaffle = Sound deadening material that sits inside a muffler and quiets the exhaust note

Blockhead = The V-twin engine Harley produced 1984 -2000

Boneyard = Salvage yard for used bikes & parts

Brain Bucket = Small, beanie-style helmet (usually not DOT approved)

Broken Wings = a patch meaning the rider has been in a crash.

Burnout = Spinning the rear wheel while holding the front brake. Many places have contests to time how lomg it takes for the tire to blow out.

Cage = Automobile, Truck, Van……. not a motorcycle.

Cager = Automobile Driver

Chopper = Bike with the front end raked out or extended out.

Chromeitis = Someone that just cannot get enough aftermarket accessories (especially Chrome) is said to have Chromeitis.

Church = Clubhouse

CLAP = Chrome, Leather, Accessories, PerformanceClone = A motorcycle built to resemble and function like a Harley-Davidson motorcycle without actually being a Harley-Davidson motorcycle (the vehicle title will identify it as something other than a Harley-Davidson)

Colors = M/C Backpatch

Crash Bar = Engine Guard

CreditGlide = RUB’s Motorcycle

Crotch Rocket = Sport bike

Counter steering = Turning the bikes handlebars in one direction and having it go in the opposite direction

Custom = Custom built bike

Cut = Vest with Club Colors

DILLIGAF = Do I Look Like I Give A Fuck

DOT = Department of Transportation

Drag Bars =  Low, flat, straight handlebarsEvo / Evolution^® = The Evolution engine (V-Twin, produced from 1984 – 2000)Fathead = The Twin-Cam engine (V-Twin, produced from 1999 – Current Day)Flathead = The Flathead engine (V-Twin, produced from 1929 – 1972)

Flash Patch = Generic patches usually sold at swap meets and shops.

Flying Low = Speeding

Forward Controls = Front pegs, shifter & rear brake control moved further forward to stretch your legs out

Freedom Fighter- a MRO member dedicated to preserving or gaining our rights and freedoms.

FTW – Fuck The World or some are using Forever Two Wheels

Hard Tail = A motorcycle frame with no rear suspension

HOG = Harley Owner’s Group

Independent = Someone not a part of any club or group, but normally a part of the biker culture.

Ink = Tattoo

Ink-Slinger = Tattoo Artist

Knuck / Knucklehead = The Knucklehead engine (V-Twin, produced from 1936 – 1947)

LE / LEO = Law Enforcement Officer/Official

Leaving Your Mark = Oil puddle on the ground where you parked your scoot

M/C = Motorcycle Club

MM = Motorcycle Ministry

MRO- Motorcycle Rights Organization. An organization such as ABATE, BOLT, Motorcycle Riders Foundation, or, American Motorcycle Association. Having as part of their agenda to protect the rights and freedoms of motorcyclists. Membership is most often open to the public by paying yearly dues. Overseas MAG and FEMA are the biggest MRO’s.

MSF = Motorcycle Safety Foundation

OEM = Original Equipment Manufacturer

Pan  / Panhead = The Panhead engine (V-Twin, produced from 1948 – 1965)Pillion Pad = The passenger seat

Pipes = Exhaust System

Plugs = Spark Plugs

Pucker Factor = Refers to how tight your ass got on a close call

R/C = Riding Club

Rags = Also used to refer to Cut or Colors.  In some areas it’s used only when referring to a woman’s colors.

Rat Bike – Usually an older bike that doesn’t look like it’s been taken care of at all. 

Revolution^™ = The Revolution engine, Harley-Davidson’s first water-cooled engine (V-Twin, produced from 2002 – Current Day)

RICO = (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations)  Laws passed for Law Enforcement to combat organized crime such as the mafia that are also used against some MC clubs.

Ridin’ Bitch = Riding as Passenger

Road Name = Also known as handle.  Name given to to someone by his Brothers/ friends.  Usually given after some kind of incident or something they would associate with that person.

Rocker = Part of M/C colors which usually designates geographic location or territory

RUB= Rich Urban Biker

Rubber = Tire

Rubber Side Down = Ride Safe; Don’t Lay the Bike Down

Run = Road trip with your Buds, most of the time with a place to go to in mind

Scoot = Motorcycle

Shiny Side Up = Ride Safe; Don’t Lay the Bike DownShovel / Shovelhead = The Shovelhead engine (V-Twin, produced from 1966 – 1984)

Sissy Bar = Passenger Backrest

Slab = Interstate

Sled = MotorcycleSoftail^® = A motorcycle frame whose suspension is hidden, making it resemble a hard tailSMRO- State Motorcycle Rights Organization. Same as a MRO except defined by the state they operate in that respective state. Such as ABATE of Ohio, ABATE of MN, BOLT of CA, ABATE of CA, TMRO, ABATE of PA. Most often associated with National MROs such as AMA and MRF. However working on a state level, with state government to protect motorcyclists rights and freedoms. Many meet at MRF and AMA functions to discuss issues, strategies, and other helpful information. Membership is most often a yearly due payment, open to riders or clubs. Many clubs are due paying members, however some cannot wear the patch at all some can wear on the front of vest.

Straight Pipes = An exhaust system with no Baffles

Tats = Tattoos

Tail Gunner = The last rider in a group

The Motorcycle Wall-  A motorcycle riders memorial wall in Hopedale Ohio. It is open to all to visit unless an event is going on the prevents viewing. Fallen Riders names are engraved on the wall for the cost to do it. As well as brick memorials on walkways.

Thirteen “13” – Common patch worn by “Outlaw” bikers. Can have several meanings.  The most common held meaning is it’s being the 13th letter of the alphabet “M” and stands for Marijuana or Meth.  It’s also known to stand for the original or “Mother” chapter of an M/C.   In the last few years, many places are saying the “M” stands for Motorcycle.
In the “Ese”/ Mexican community “13” is often used to represent the “South Side” and “La Eme” (Mexican Mafia).

Turn your back = To completely disassociate from a person or club. 

Twisties = Section of road with a lot of turns

Wannabe = Refers to someone that tries to pretend to be a part of the biker lifestyle

Wrench = MechanicXXF-FXX / XXFOREVER – FOREVERXX = Patch worn by MC members to represent their total commitment to the club and every other member of that club.(XX stands for the name of the club)

1%er = If you read the papers or listen to the news, the media and law enforcement agents have redefined the term “1%er”. The term was first used in the 60’s to describe some of the people that attended the motorcycle events back then. The AMA (American Motorcycle Association) stated that 99% of the people at their events were god fearing and family oriented. The other 1% were hard riding, hard partying, non mainstream type people. Thus the term 1%er was born. Some of the early bikers embraced the term and decided to call themselves 1%ers.  It did not mean that they were law breakers or low life individuals. They were simply men that rode their motorcycles seven days a week in all kinds of weather, liked to drink and raise a little hell. Sometime during the 80’s law enforcement changed the meaning of the 1%er to what they wanted it to represent. It didn’t matter that their meaning was incorrect, they just spoon fed it to the general public and the courts as they had so many other things.

Motorcycle Clubs are rich in history and tradition. One of those traditions is the wearing of a 1%er patch on our vests and referring to ourselves as a 1%er club. The 1%er definition as we see it is one that explains our commitment to Biking and Brotherhood. We ride our motorcycles every day rain or shine. We ride thousands of miles each year with our Brothers to attend parties, social events, funerals and just plain spending time together. We work, have families and do all the things that our neighbors do. In addition to that we belong to a Brotherhood that we are able to combine with our day to day lives.  To say that 1%er’s are criminals or people of a lesser moral code than the rest of society is a tainted opinion.

5%’er- A member of a Motorcycle Rights Organization. The term was first used to my knowledge by me in a 1997 during a Chapter speech, then at a MRF and then a AMA meeting, as only 5% of motorcyclists were involved with MROs. That was to represent the 5% of motorcyclist that did get involved in protecting the rights of the other 95%. It has been used in public speaking in OH, PA, MN, MI, and in some publications in the Midwest, Great Lakes area. Meant to respect those that get involved and spent much time, money, protecting bikers they don’t even know.
“Lick and Stick” – This is a temporary pillion back seat placed on the fender through the use of suction cups. 
“Fender” – A female passenger who is not an Old Lady but simply a lady a biker has invited for a ride.  (Also Fender Fluff)

“Moonlight Mile” – A short adventure with a lady friend away from camp.”Running 66″ – It’s very rare but at times it’s necessary to ride without a club patch or cut.  This is also known as “riding incognito”.

“Shower Head” – Refers to the new Harley-Davidson V-Rod motorcycle motor. It’s water cooled motor features what looks to be a showerhead attachment on it’s right side.

“Broad” – A female entertainer for the club. She may be a dancer or at times a prostitute.

Traditions

The Last Rev 
The Passing of a fellow club brother or sister is something we never hope to have to endure. The reality of it is if you live long enough that day will come. There is a tradition within the motorcycle club culture that has been around for many years, it’s called the last Rev. The Road Capt while standing beside his/her bike starts their engine then everyone standing beside their bike starts their engines, the Road Capt starts the rev 3 to 5 times with everyone else joining in doing the same except the tail gunner who just waits until everyone else has finished. When the Road Capt stops the rev and all bikes are just idling, then only the Tail Gunner gives the last rev then everyone mounts their bikes and rides away as quiet as possible. Normally the last rev is done at the cemetery unless there will be no cemetery service. Then it will be done at the funeral home after the last viewing just prior to everyone leaving.

The significance of this is, to alert Heaven that a Biker is on their way to ride to roads in heaven.

Confederation of Clubs CoC

The CoC is not really a MRO such as ABATE, but biker rights are often discussed and are paramount to the organization.  And motorcycle club politics pertaining to legal problems with law enforcement. They also discuss harresment from certain law agencies. While Patchholders may belong to an MRO, they don’t have a united membership of patch holders. Where most MROs  and COCs are made up from various clubs and independents, 

The CoC may vary from region to region in makeup, size, and strength but the overall mission of the CoC is unity in the motorcycling world. The CoCexists to bring communication through clubs, and improve the motorcyclist image, support legislation for the betterment of motorcycling, and allow clubs to come to a neutral spot and meet to discuss issues. They monitor and protect our biker rights in the court system. and possibly have lawyers that help to unravel legal red tape. In some areas the organization may also be a sanctioning body for new or probate clubs in that region.  Often time, the Dominant club in the area may chair the meeting.The CoC is also a good place to meet some of the people in the clubs in your area. 

If you are a new club it is in your interest to put a face to your club, and display respect for the other clubs.
*Note* Some do require an invite to attend, so you will want to check and see. 

National CoC……  AIM NCOM      Ontario Confederation of Clubs

Know Your Rights

Assertion of RightsOfficer, Please understand:I have the right to have an attorney present if you want to question me or conduct any search of my body or personal effects.  I am not giving my consent to any type of search.
If I am under arrest, I wish to invoke and exercise my Miranda Rights.  I would like to speak to an attorney now.  I do not want my personal property impounded, nor do I consent to any impounment.  I request the opportunity to secure my personal effects.
If I am not under arrest, please tell me immediately so that I may leave.If you are stopped for questioning:1. It’s not a crime to refuse to answer questions, but refusing to answer can make the police suspicious about you.  You cannot be arrested for merely refusing to identify yourself on the street.

2. Police may “pat down” your clothing if they suspect a concealed weapon.  Don’t physically resist, but make it clear you don’t consent to further search.

3. Ask if you are under arrest.  If you are, you have the right to know why.

4. Don’t badmouth the police officer or run away, even if you beleive what is happening is unreasonable.  That could lead to your arrest.

If you are stopped in your car:
1. Upon request, show them your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance.  In certain cases, our car can be searched without a warrant as long as the police have probable cause.  To protect yourself later, you should make it clear that you do not consent to a search.  It is not lawful for police to arrest you simply for refusing to consent to a search. 
2. If you are given a ticket, you should sign it, otherwise you could be arrested.  You can always fight the case in court later.  If you are suspected of drunk driving (DWI) and refuse to take a blood, urine, or breath test, your driver’s license may be suspended. While there are a lot of good LEOs out there just trying to do a hard job, there is no way to tell the good ones from the bad.  For your own protection, consider what you read here and know your rights.

What the Police preferred you didn’t know

Have you ever heard of the old saying “ignorance of the law is no excuse?” Basically that’s how police officers and some judges feel about your constitutional rights. What you don’t know and never were taught in school could hurt you!

Police officers are generally depicted as public servants, but they can be your worst enemy when they count on people like you not being knowledgeable of their constitutional rights. Just because you or your children didn’t know they had rights under the constitution and gave up those rights by talking to a police officer or a federal agent without an attorney could cost you dearly. This includes even a casual conversation that could happen on a traffic stop or on a sidewalk

Educate your kids. Minors have Rights!

What To Do If A Police Officer Stops You

To stop you a police officer must have a specific reason to suspect your involvement in a specific crime and should be able to tell you the reason. This is known as reasonable suspicion. Most times you are probably getting pulled over for a traffic violation such as speeding or maybe a tail light is out. Although the stop may seem wrong or unfair, the police believe they have a reason to stop you
Your Rights During a Police Encounter. Rules you should know to protect yourself from the police:

Rule #1 – Never talk to a police officer. Keep your mouth shut! (You never have to answer any questions a police officer may ask, except for your name, address and date of birth.)

Rule #2 – Never talk to a police officer. Keep your mouth shut! (How can you be charged with something if you haven’t said anything?) Remember anything you say or do can be used against you.

Rule #3 – “Am I Free to Go?” As soon as a police officer ask you a question, ask the police officer, “Am I Free to Go?” If you are detained or arrested by a police officer, tell them that you are going to remain silent and that you would like to see a lawyer.

Rule #4 – Safety. Never bad-mouth a police officer. Stay calm and in control of your words, body language and your emotions. Always keep your hands where the police officer can see them. Don’t run away and never touch a police officer!

Rule #5 – Refuse to Consent to Searches. Just say NO to searches! Remember if the police didn’t need your permission, they wouldn’t be asking you. Never give permission to a police officer to search you, your car or your home. If a police officer does search you, don’t resist!

Rule #6 – Ask for a Supervisor. If all else fails and you feel the police officer is abusing your rights, ask him to call his “supervisor” to your location.

Traffic Stops

You usually will be required to show the usual documentation, such as your driver’s license, registration and proof of insurance. You don’t have to open your window more than a crack to hand it out.

On traffic stops the police usually will ask you “personal” questions such as, where are you going, where have you been, who did you see, how long did you visit, ect. At that point it’s the perfect time to exercise your RIGHTS by asking the police officer, “AM I FREE TO GO?” There is NO legal requirement that citizens provide information about their comings and goings to police officers! Another words it’s none of the police officers damn business!If you are ordered out of your car, lock the door behind you.
Remember that the officer is not trying to be your buddy and become a new friend, they are on a “fishing expedition” to find something against you! They have nothing criminal on you, so they’re looking for anything while they have you pulled over.

A good time to ask “AM I FREE TO GO,” is after the cop has given you a “warning” or a “ticket” and you have signed it. Once you have signed that ticket the traffic stop is legally over with, so says the Supreme Court. Now if you want to stand around and shoot the breeze with the officer or answer his questions, that is up to you. Just remember you don’t have to! After you sign the ticket ask, “AM I FREE TO GO?”

Anything You Say Can And Will Be Used Against You!

Staying silent will not hurt you. Do not let the police persuade you to talk. The officer may not like this and may challenge you with words like, “If you have nothing to hide, why won’t you speak to me?” Just like the first question, you do not have to answer this one either. They may tell you that staying quiet will make things worse for you or that they’ll go easy on you if you talk but this is not true!

You have every right NOT to talk to a police officer, and you shouldn’t speak to them unless you have first consulted with a lawyer who has advised you differently. Some cops are worse than others and some of them may treat you differently if they think you know your rights. The police depend on fear and intimidation to get what they want.

If you run into a really bad cop, talking back to him and standing up for your rights might get you beaten up or killed, so be careful about the realistic limits of the law and of your rights as an American. Cops are perhaps the most dangerous members of our society, so be careful when you talk to them.

The Federal Supreme Court has ruled that as long as the police do not force an individual to do something, the individual is acting voluntarily, even if a normal person would feel very intimidated and would not reasonably feel they could say no. See (Florida v. Bostick, 1991)If you do what a policeman tells you to do before you are arrested, you are ‘voluntarily’ complying with their ‘requests’.

Be as nice as possible, but stand firm on your rights! Read the Fourth & Fifth Amendment

CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS CANNOT BE SUSPENDED — EVEN DURING A STATE OF EMERGENCY OR WARTIME !

Car Searches And Body Searches

Remember they wouldn’t ask you if they didn’t need your permission!

A police officers swore an oath to uphold the Constitution, not to violate your rights against unreasonable search and seizure. If a cop ask or tries to search you, your home or your car, say repeatedly “I DON’T CONSENT TO THIS SEARCH !”

“The right to be free from unreasonable searches is one of our most precious First Liberties”

You DON’T have to give consent to a law enforcement officer to search your vehicle or home. While you DON’T have to consent, bear in mind that the expectation of privacy in a car is less than the expectation of privacy in your home. Based in part on the lessened expectation of privacy in a car, law enforcement officers are permitted to conduct a warrantless search of a car if the officer has probable cause. “In most cases the police officer will lie and make up a probable cause.”

Just for being stopped for a traffic violation should not allow the officer to search your car; however, if the officer saw you throw an empty beer can out the window, that may be sufficient probable cause to search your car. If the officer “thinks” he smells marijuana as he approaches the car, he then may use that as probable cause to search you car.

Police Pat Downs…

The law allows police to pat down your outer clothing for the protection of the officer if you’re being detained. The officer may only pat your outer clothing to see if you have any weapons. If the police feel something that could be a weapon, then the police can go into your pockets and search. Otherwise a police officer CAN’T go through your pockets or make you empty your pockets unless you are under arrest.

To protect yourself, make it clear that you “don’t consent to a search” and ask why they are searching you. Remember the reason they give you. If they claim to have a warrant, ask to see it. Whether or not they have a warrant, you can protect your CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS by making it clear that you do not consent to a search.

If the Police Knock at Your Home-You Don’t Have to Open the Door!

If the police knock and ask to enter your home, you DON’T have to open the door unless they have a warrant signed by a judge. Such an invitation not only gives the police officer the opportunity to look around for clues to your lifestyle, friends, reading material, etc; but also tends to prolong the conversation.

There is no law that says you have to open your door to a police officer. Don’t open your door with the chain-lock on either, the police can shove their way in. Police are known to kick in doors. Simply shout “I HAVE NOTHING TO SAY!”

If the police do have a search warrant, ask to see it and make sure that it is signed, has the correct date, correct address, and apartment number, ect.

* In some emergency situations (like when a person is screaming for help inside, or when the police are chasing someone) officers are allowed to enter and search your home without a warrant.

NEVER agree to go to the police station for questioning. Simply say, “I HAVE NOTHING TO SAY.”

If a Police Officer Stops You On The Sidewalk…

You are perfectly within your rights to say to the officer who asks to speak with you, “Officer I do not want speak with you, good-bye.” At this point you should be free to leave the officer’s presence. The officer may not like this and may challenge you with words like, “If you have nothing to hide, why won’t you speak to me?” Just like the first question, you do not have to answer this question either.

There is NO law that says you must tell a police officer where you are going or where you have been. So keep your mouth shut and say nothing!

The next step the police officer might take is to ask for identification. If you have identification on you, tell the officer where it is and ask permission to reach for it.  Some states do not require you to show identification, be aware of the laws in your state.

Probable Cause…

A police officer has no right to detain you unless there exists reasonable suspicion that you committed a crime or traffic violation. However a police officer is always allowed to initiate a voluntary conversation with you.

Sometimes it is unclear whether or not a person is detained. If you are in doubt, you should ask the police officer if you are in “Am I Free to Leave.” Now if the police officer doesn’t have “probable cause”, and you refuse him to search your car, he might bring in a drug dog. At this point since the officer has no probable cause, he may be illegally detaining you. 

Under the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, police may engage in “reasonable” searches and seizures. To prove that a search is “reasonable,” the police must generally show that it is more likely than not that a crime has occurred, and that if a search is conducted it is probable that they will find either stolen goods or evidence of the crime. This is called “probable cause.”

Police may use first hand information, or tips from an “informant” to justify the need to search your property. If an informant’s information is used, the police must prove that the information is reliable under the circumstances.

Here is a case where the police used an “informant’s” word and the police officers took it upon themselves to kick in a door of a home at 1:30 in the morning without obtaining a search warrant. The aftermath was six police officers firing over 30 shots and shooting an innocent man 9 times in the back as he laid on the ground. Read Story

What You Don’t Know Could Change Your Life Forever…

You might be wondering, don’t police tell me that I have the right not to be searched? After all when a suspect is arrested, he is told before interrogation takes place that he has the right to remain silent.

The Supreme Court has said NO. According to the Court, the fact that a person might not know he has the right to refuse a search is merely one factor in the determination of whether his consent is voluntary. The Court has reasoned that the police do not need to give warnings — to eliminate any doubt about the suspect’s knowledge of her rights — because warnings might detract from the informality of an otherwise “friendly” interaction between “civilians and the police.” So you might ask yourself, is someone that would use something against you really a “friend?”

The Supreme Court has explained that “the community has a real interest in encouraging consent, for the resulting search may yield necessary evidence for the solution and prosecution of crime….” Furthermore, the Court has concluded, it would be “thoroughly impractical” to require an effective warning about the right to refuse.

Can We Trust the Cops?

Are police officers allowed to lie to you? Yes the Supreme Court has ruled that a police officer can lie to a citizen while questioning them. Police officers are very good at lying, twisting words and they are trained to be manipulative. Police officers and other law enforcement agents are very skilled at getting information from people. So don’t try to out smart the cop or try being a smooth talker because you will loose! If you can keep your mouth shut, you might just come out ahead more then you expected.

The federal government made a law that says citizens can’t lie to federal agents. They can lie to us, but we can’t lie to them. Makes perfect since don’t it? The best thing you can do is ask for a lawyer and keep your mouth shut. How can you be charged with something if you haven’t said anything?

Although police officers may seem nice and pretend to be on your side, they are likely to be intent on learning about the habits, opinions, and affiliations of people not suspected of wrongdoing, with the end goal of stopping political activity with which the government disagrees. Don’t try to answer the police officers questions, or try to “educate them” about your cause, it can be very dangerous! You can never tell how a seemingly harmless bit of information that you give the police officer might be used and misconstrued to hurt you or someone else. And keep in mind that lying to a federal agent is a crime.

Officers may promise shorter sentences and other deals for statements or confessions. The police cannot legally make deals with people they arrest. The only person who can make a deal that can be enforced is the prosecutor, and he should not talk with you without a lawyer present who represents you.

Teach your children that the cops are not always their friends, and the police officer must contact a parent for permission to ask your child any questions. Remember that the police are trained to put you at ease and to get you to trust them. Their job is to find, arrest and help convict a suspect. And that suspect is you!

Lies That The Police Use To Get You To Talk…

There are many ways the police will try to trick you into talking. Its always safest just to say the Magic Words: I’m going to remain silent and I want a lawyer.

The following are common lie’s the police use when they’re trying to get you to talk:

* “You will have to stay here and answer my questions” or “You’re not leaving until I find out what I want.”

* “I have evidence on you. Tell me what I want to know or else.” (They can fabricate ”fake” evidence to convince you to tell them what they want to know.)

* “You’re not a suspect. Were simply investigating here. Just help us understand what happened and then you can go.”

* “If you don’t answer my questions, I won’t have any choice but to take you to jail.”

* “If you don’t answer these questions, you’ll be charged with resisting arrest.”

If The Police Arrest You…

If you are arrested, the police can search you and the area close by. If you are in a building, “close by” usually means just the room you are in. If during a search or an arrest the police take anything from you, they must give you a receipt for every item seized, including your wallet and its contents, clothes, and any packages you were carrying when arrested.

“I DON’T WANT TO TALK UNTIL MY LAWYER IS PRESENT”

* Even if your rights weren’t read, refuse to talk until your lawyer/public defender arrives.

* If your arrested and can not afford an attorney, you have the right to a public defender. If you get a public defender always make it clear that the public defender is not representing you, but merely is serving as your counsel.

* Do not talk to the inmates in jail about your case.

* Within a reasonable time after your arrest, or booking, you have the right to make a local phone call: to a lawyer, bail bondsman, a relative or any other person. The police may not listen to the call to the lawyer.

* If you’re on probation or parole, tell your P.O. you’ve been arrested, but nothing else.

* You may be released with or without bail following the booking. If not, you have the right to go into court and see a judge the next court day after your arrest. Demand this RIGHT! When you appear before the judge, ask for an attorney. An attorney has a better chance at convincing a judge to let you out on a lower bail then you could.