I am both ashamed at myself and entertained by the series. It obviously does not represent any reality, but it does bring to mind some interesting questions about life and relationships. Maybe it would be a good thing to have men considering such issues more. 😀

http://www.AssafKoss.com

I can assure you that they do, because I blogged about it.

Norm

I suppose the same thing could be said for people who watched the Soprano’s.

Soap Opera or not, I’m thinking that in the long run, no good will come from this show whether it’s somebody getting beaten/killed for wearing a three piece cut or people just believing it’s real life.

I did find a good article explaining the difference between 3 piece patches and 1 piece patches that made a lot of sense and is consistent with my experience. I’d link it, but it was on an MC’s website.

My golden rule is that unless you are in a recognized motorcycle club, you should refrain from wearing any club patches on the back of your vest or jacket. I am not talking about an American Flag or a Harley Davidson Logo, or some other patch that they sell at the rallies that anybody would know is not a club patch, I am talking about club patches.

I have been riding in California without a concealed weapon for 31 years. I have ridden with many club members and to events that have many club members present. I have had no problems whatsoever. The only time I would think that you could have a problem is if you start pretending to be a club member when you are not.

Almost universally most motorcycle club members are enthusiast that just want to have a good time. They are human beings just like you and me.

This is just my personal opinion. With respect to the motorcycle club world, there are websites that educate on the subject. Each area is different.

Norm

The research I’ve done is 20 years of riding in the PacNorWest and Midwest. Never had any trouble, even with the local “1%” MC. Though I’ve personally never worn anything other than a reflective Harley logo on the back, I’ve ridden with plenty of guys who do wear HOG and “faux” patches.

But I’ve never ridden in your neck of the woods. And until CA recognizes my CWP, I never will. Not holding my breath. (And now that I hear this, my rule of never riding without carrying seems validated. I don’t wouldn’t want to be unarmed because someone has a problem with a friend wearing a Wild Hogs (movie reference, apologies if this is an actual club) patch.

Anyway, like I said: Fascinating.

Thanks for the blog, I’ve never commented before (I think) but always read new posts when they pop up.

Matt first off I edited your post to remove the actual club names that you posted. We do not put club names on this blog without permission.

There is a protocol within the motorcycle club world that has been followed for many years. I did not make it, but I know about it. Part of the protocol is that out of respect for long existing clubs, a new club will meet with existing clubs before flying new patches. I am not going to write a dissertation on the subject, nor was this the intent of my article.

If you want to find out why clubs or members of real clubs may have a problem with guys wearing fake patches and riding around acting like they are in clubs, you should actually go and talk to real club members. I am sure they will tell you what they think. There are also websites on the Internet that are dedicated to motorcycle club education.

I doubt any real club member would have a problem with someone wearing a HOG patch, but then again, you never know. This is the kind of thing that may vary depending upon the club or geographic area you are in. Each area may be different. Do some research.

Norm

I find that fascinating. I understand why an MC would not want someone wearing one of *their* cuts or patches, but why would they care if they were wearing some other MC patch, real or imaginary?
(I’m genuinely asking, not quarreling with your statement.)

I often ride with guys who are members of a and they wear big HOG patches on cuts that I believe are designed to make them look like part of an MC. Your statement makes me want to think twice about riding to the next motorcycle event with them.

I’d wonder the same for a bunch of other “99%” MCs that don’t have the same kind of initiation as a group like H**** A****, B********, etc.