February 28, 2022 | Posted by Rubenstein Law
Motorcycle clubs are a terrific way to connect with those who share your love for riding motorcycles. A motorcycle club is a group of members who ride together wearing an identifiable patch with ‘MC’ next to it. There are also informal clubs and groups that avoid patches due to the sometimes-negative connotation associated with old school Motorcycle Clubs.
Motorcycle clubs have their own rules, policies, and practices that distinguish them from others. Understanding which clubs to join and how to join them will set you on the right path toward meeting your community of riders.
What Kind of MC is Right for You?M
There are many types of MCs, including:
- Religion-based clubs
- Those for former military members
- People who work in law enforcement
- Those recovering from substance abuse
- Clubs where members just enjoy riding and being with each other
Further, some MCs choose to cruise on interstates, or scenic backroads, and others focus on riding off-road. Usually, MCs offer group rides, social, and fundraising events. There are many online motorcycle club lists so you can get basic information on MCs near you.
Choose a Club That Shares Your Values
Each club has its own culture, rules, and hierarchy. Members may have common beliefs or worldviews that may not be a good match for you. After reading what you can, ask other motorcyclists about the local MCs, and attend a local bike night. Then, meet with a member and start an honest conversation.
What Are the Stages of Joining an MC?
There are a few stages you may go through before joining a motorcycle club, including the following:
Friend of the Club
After meeting a member, ask when a suitable time would be to join an MC event. Introduce yourself to some members and spend time with the group before stating your intention to join. Your goal is to be a “friend of the club.” This involves getting to know names, talking to members, and having a good time.
The Hang-Around Stage
Perhaps after a few months, you might be asked about your plans. You’ll likely have to ask the club to be considered. If you’re interested in each other, you reach the hang-around stage. You spend more time with members and at their clubhouse, or hangout spots.
Prospect
If all goes well, it may be another few months before you become a prospect. No longer just a friend or a hang-around, you have obligations to the MC that may last from six to 24 months. It may be cut short if members aren’t satisfied and no longer want you around. This is when you show how motivated you are to join by putting in the work and obeying the rules.
Members will test you. You may need to clean the clubhouse, work behind the bar, or polish bikes. You shouldn’t be asked to do anything a member wouldn’t do.
Becoming a Member
After putting in the necessary months of hustling as a prospect, you will be voted in or out by members. You may not continue with the club if you break an unwritten rule at some point. These are personal decisions by members, and you either fit or you don’t.
How Do I Stay Safe on Group Rides?
Group rides will be a major activity when you’re part of a motorcycle club or group. Here are some suggestions from Allstate on keeping safe:
- Be prepared: You should have a full tank of gas and a fully charged smartphone. The group should have first aid and tool kits, including members who know how to use them.
- Know hand signals: Formation leaders give hand signals to riders to warn them of what’s ahead so they can prepare.
- Meet before you ride: Talk about stops, trip length, hand signals, and ride strategy.
- Choose a group lead and sweep: The most experienced riders should be in the front (group lead) and at the back (the sweep).
- Keep the numbers manageable: A good group size is seven. If there are more riders, break into multiple groups.
- Keep a safe distance: You want to be relatively tight but have enough space if someone brakes or swerves. Riders should stay in one lane, but positions within the lane should be staggered left and right.
- Watch other members: The group should know if someone breaks down or suffers an accident and falls behind. You should have a plan on who does what if that happens.
- Take breaks: Drink fluids, eat, and rest to minimize fatigue.
A Florida Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help You
If you’re severely injured in a motorcycle accident, contact a Florida motorcycle accident lawyer at Rubenstein Law today. We can help you get the best recovery possible, given the facts of your case. Get a free, no-risk case review by calling us today at 800-FL-LEGAL.
