Biker Terms

Biker Terms and Advice

For the uninformed the MC world can be a dangerous place. Here are some definitions of biker terms, general rules and tips to avoid trouble.

  • A bikers “colors”: a bikers “colors” are the patches he wears on his back, and/or the vest they are on. The term also refers to said artwork representing the club. These are either 3-piece patches, 2-piece patches or a 1-piece patch. The term can also literally refer to the clubs patch colors, such as red and white, black and white, etc. and can sometimes be seen in clothing or handkerchiefs.
  • The 3-piece patch: includes a top rocker – center patch – a bottom rocker, and usually accompanied by a patch with the letters MC. The bottom rocker usually denotes a State of origin. This is frequently a 1% or “outlaw” motorcycle club so it is safer to assume so if you don’t know. If they have a patch in front that says “1%” you know for sure. These are generally serious bikers who do not tolerate insults real or perceived. Unless you know them, leave them alone.
  • The 2-piece patch: like the 3-piece but without the bottom rocker or, less frequently, without a top rocker. This is usually a “riding club” or RC, sometimes they include a patch with the letters RC. These clubs are more “public friendly” and are usually not 1% affiliated. Still use caution as this is a generality; some may be 1% MC recruiting tools.
  • The 1-piece patch: this is often associated with motorcycle associations like the Harley Owners Group (HOG) and rarely denotes MC affiliation. Due to the popularity of center-patch sales at virtually every bike event, the 1-piece patch can mean anything or nothing, read the patch and decide.

Advice to the Uninitiated

  • DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCE TRY TO START YOUR OWN CLUB WITH A 3-PIECE PATCH IF YOU VALUE YOUR SAFETY! Also, don’t try to start a RC with a 1 or 2-piece patch until you are 100% sure you will not offend the local dominant club, if you’re not sure, DON’T DO IT!
  • DO NOT touch a bikers colors…there will be blood!
  • Never interrupt two patch holders having a private conversation unless you are invited in.
  • If you see a woman wearing a “Property of” patch…STAY AWAY!
  • Do not automatically assume any biker, male or female, will show you any form of respect or consideration, in their world you have to earn it.
  • Do not take pictures or video of any biker, club or their motorcycles. They may assume you are a cop or an investigator, expect a broken camera or worse.
  • Do not cut off, try to cut into, or try to join up with any club riding down the road. Keep a respectful distance behind them or casually pass them if they are traveling slower than your pace. DO NOT get in front and then slow down or otherwise harass them – you are outgunned!
  • If a biker bar looks rough and dangerous to you, it probably is TO YOU, don’t go in. If most of the clientele are in colors (especially all the same colors) and you’re not, don’t do it, it’s probably a clubhouse, the LAST place the clueless should be!