Quote:
Originally posted by shamrock_uk:
Thanks for the link, i'd no idea things were this complicated!
Would it be an accurate summary to say that riding clubs are much more relaxed than motorcycle clubs? These motorcycle clubs seem to be much more prescriptive about appropriate behaviour etc.
Glad things have been sorted out Wellard, but I have to say, I find the notion that one group can dictate the sort of designs that another group wears rather offensive. They need taken down a peg or two...
How exactly are patches "earnt" then, seeing as so much store seems to be placed on this?
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Absolutely. Riding clubs generally allow anyone to join. About the only limitation on their membership is for a specific brand of bike (HOG=Harley Owner's Group, VROC=Vulcan Riders & Owner's Club) or a specific group, like the Blue Knights (former/current law enforcement) or the Christian Motorcyclist Association. Anyone who meets the demographic and pays the membership fee (if one is even charged) can get a patch.
OTOH, to join a motorcycle club, you have to hang around the club until the members decide you might fit in, then be sponsored for membership. That makes you a Prospect, basically, their gopher/errand boy, for generally a year. If your behavior meets their standards they'll vote you a full member and award your patch. Joining a MC is kinda like joining a Mafia family -- loyalty to the club is supposed to supercede even your family.
AFA taking them down a peg or two. The idea that someone can tell you what you may or may not wear in public is wrong, but how many ordinary citizens are willing to risk serious injury standing up for this particular right? Some of these gangs take the patches, especially with the lower rocker that denotes a specific territory, very seriously, and they will fight.