Let’s face it, there’s something alluring about owning a motorcycle and the coolest thing about it is that people who don’t have a bike themselves just don’t get it. It’s like an in-joke that only you and a few others know about.
Motorcycle culture has often been a source of much inspiration for fashion, film, literature and music ever since bikes and their riders were first seen on the streets.
A biker rides his motorcycle in the same way that a knight used to ride his horse. Originally such an animal used to be a mode of transport, but then it became a status symbol. Gradually people were known by the horses they rode, just as motorcycles are today.
People come from miles away to ride alongside friends and club members and to feel a part of a team, but what helps to make it so special?
The history of motorcycle clubs
To get to the bottom of that, we must first look at the history of bikers. Motorcycles ceased to become a mere tool to get from A to B following the war as men in the US hankered for the comradeship seen in the forces. This development is where biker clubs originated.
It wasn’t long before rivalries began to develop between different biker gangs and they would hold rival views and sometimes even become territorial, especially the younger riders that weren’t involved in the military previously.
Hollywood’s role
Once trouble was brewing, it didn’t take long for Hollywood to latch on to the stories that were appearing in the press with more and more frequency. Before long, the roar of a motorcycle was synonymous with speed, drink and trouble.
This then spread to the UK and that caused friction among motorcycle enthusiasts over here.
What it means now
Thankfully, that sort of thing is no longer a problem in the UK or the US. While there are still Hell’s Angels and Outlaws that are fiercely loyal to their groups, they go about this in a peaceful way.
The British Biker Association was then established to bring enthusiasts of all ages together, regardless of what creed or society they were from.
Age holds no barrier to biking, nor does it recognise social classes, which is what helps to forge such a special bond between fellow bikers.
The wave (and other forms of etiquette that make the activity so unique)
One of the most common forms of manners or etiquette is the iconic wave between bikers. Much like with lorry or bus drivers, when you are riding along and come across other bikers, it is customary give them a wave or at least nod in their direction.
The wave shouldn’t be reserved for riders who are riding your brand of bike – it should be directed to any motorbike or scooter as a form of respect.
This might sound a bit silly, but when you see a parked motorcycle – even if the owner is right there – never sit on the bike. If you want to, then ask the permission of the rider and then you may sit on the bike if they will allow you to.
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