A little common sense goes a long way in the motorcycle club community. Be honest with yourself and others. If you are not prepared to fully accept the responsibility of wearing an MC patch, explore other alternatives for a group riding experience. Being a motorcycle enthusiast or having prior military service does not, in itself, prepare an individual for wearing a three-piece patch. The trial and error method of learning MC customs and protocol is not recommended. Consider very carefully any ideas that you and your pals might have about starting a motorcycle club. In all probability, a group already exists that would suit your style and the important work has already been done. Please, for God's sake, do NOT buy fake rockers on eBay or at the flea market and sport 'em around town. It's just not worth it. Questions that could be interpreted as intelligence-gathering will not be well-received ("So, how many guys are in your chapter?" isn't a good question under any circumstances; "Hey, does that '13' on your vest mean that you guys smoke pot?" probably isn't a good one either). Never, ever interrupt patch holders while they are conversing with one another and stand at a respectable distance while waiting to be acknowledged. You may be surprised at how much some basic courtesy is appreciated. MC members understand the meaning and importance of respect. They demand it for themselves and their club brothers, they provide it to patch holders outside of their own club until given a reason to do otherwise. Regardless of what's on your back, or how you got it, it is of the utmost importance to show an appropriate degree of respect to those who earned their colors in the old-school tradition. This section of website will provide information about The Colors, The 3-Piece Rocker, The 1% Diamond, The Nomad , The Grey Area and finally, the alternative to joining an MC. It is not the intent of this website to act as the authority on the subject of MC protocol but to dispense general information about the subject. Care should be taken to consult knowledgable patch holders in your area.
Consider the alternative...
