Joining a Motorcycle Club: Benefits and What to Expect
Motorcycle clubs and organizations offer riders community, camaraderie, and organized activities. Whether you're interested in brand-specific clubs, riding organizations, or social groups, there's likely a club that fits your interests.
Types of Clubs
Brand Clubs: Harley Owners Group (HOG), BMW Motorcycle Owners, etc. Focus on specific motorcycle brands with events, rides, and brand-specific benefits.
Riding Organizations: American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), local riding clubs focused on general motorcycling and advocacy.
Social Clubs: Local groups focused on riding, socializing, and community building without specific brand or organizational affiliation.
Activity Clubs: Track day organizations, adventure riding groups, touring clubs focused on specific riding activities.
Benefits of Joining
Clubs provide: organized rides and events, social connections and friendships, knowledge sharing and learning opportunities, discounts on gear, parts, and services, advocacy and representation for riders, and sense of community and belonging.
Finding the Right Club
Research clubs in your area. Attend open events or meetings before joining. Consider what you want from a club - social connections, organized rides, advocacy, or specific activities. Use platforms like NearRide to find clubs and connect with members.
What to Expect
Most clubs have regular meetings, organized rides, and social events. Some clubs have membership dues. Many clubs welcome visitors to events before you commit to membership. Participation levels vary - some clubs are very active, others more casual.
Club Culture
Each club has its own culture and expectations. Some are formal with structured hierarchies, others are casual and relaxed. Visit clubs to understand their culture and see if it fits your personality and interests.
Commitment Levels
Club commitment varies. Some clubs require regular participation, others are more flexible. Understand expectations before joining. Most clubs appreciate members who are active and contribute to the community.
Starting Your Own Club
If you can't find a club that fits, consider starting your own. Use platforms like NearRide to find interested riders, organize initial rides, and build your club. Starting small and growing organically often works well.
Online Communities
Online platforms like NearRide complement traditional clubs. Connect with riders, organize rides, and build communities digitally. Many riders participate in both online communities and traditional clubs.
Respecting All Clubs
The motorcycle community includes many different types of clubs and organizations. Respect all clubs, even if they're not for you. The diversity of the motorcycle community is one of its strengths.
Building Community
Whether you join an existing club or start your own, the goal is building community. Use tools like NearRide to connect with riders, organize events, and strengthen the motorcycle community in your area.