As a rider, one of the best decisions you can make to expand your social horizons is to join a motorcycle club. This is where passionate riders have fun. However, joining a club is a commitment, so it helps to understand what you're signing up for. There are many stereotypes to overcome and basics to learn if you want to have a pleasant time. For many people, motorcycles are a crucial part of their lives.
Even though all riders ride a motorcycle, the real purpose of a club depends on the reasons behind its establishment. Many motorcycle clubs are based on traditions or beliefs of people of the area from where they originate, but many are found on the bike brands. For example, you can only join the Hells Angels if you aren't riding a Harley-Davidson bike. Check out these rare photos of the Hells Angels out and about.
15 They Are Brothers And Sisters
The Hells Angels is a one percent club that most countries consider to be criminal. Unsurprisingly, many people treat club members as feral animals. The club has to stay close-knit to maintain their integrity. They even have their own (legal) store in Toronto and do a lot of charity work.
14 They Were Founded In 1948
The Hells Angels Club was founded in California in 1948. This was the nickname bomber crews used during the World War II. During the next 10 years, the club could open many chapters in San Francisco and Oakland. It became famous in 1965, when Thomas C. Lynch issued a report on bike gangs.
13 They Can Be Found In Many Countries
Here we can see the Hells Angels clubhouse in New York City. The club has opened 444 chapters on six continents in the world. They couldn't spread only to the southernmost continent, Antarctica. There are only 4 European countries that still don't have an association with the club. Even Lichtenstein has its own chapter.
12 They Control Night Life In Canada
In Canada, the Hells Angels have a total control of street prostitution. Even though local gangs can facilitate the business, the Hells Angels hold a tight grasp on this part of nightlife. However, Canada has complicated laws regarding these services, so the club has to be very careful with their presence in the country.
11 They've Built Relationships With Celebrities
The Hells Angels have grown so big that they have ties with many celebrities. They've been seen with Jerry Garcia, Allen Ginsberg and Ken Kesey. In the past, people could find them partying with The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Merry Pranksters, Mick Farren, and Tom Wolfe. In the motorcycle world, this club is considered royalty.
10 They Are Associated With Drug Distribution
The Hells Angels are dangerous fighters. They have been associated with the manufacture and distribution of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. However, "Two attempts to prosecute club members under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act ended in mistrials in the early 1980s." Still, the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation calls them an outlaw motorcycle gang.
9 Hells Angels On Wheels
Hells Angels were really popular in the 60s. Filmmakers saw an opportunity and exploited the club name by churning out movies. Think Jack Nicholson’s Hells Angels On Wheels or Peter Fonda’s The Wild Angels. There is also the TV series Sons of Anarchy that's loosely based on the Hells Angels.
8 All Members Must Follow Strict Rules
If you want to become a club member, you should be ready to make sacrifices. For example, you should ride at least 20,000 kilometers every year to qualify as a Hells Angel. You must own a chopper or other serious bike. If you're not a male, you can't become a member.
7 The Lennoxville Massacre
In 1985, 5 members of the Hells Angels were murdered by fellow members. The victims were considered "risky members" due to their partying lifestyles. They were invited to meet at the clubhouse, then beaten and shot to death. Many people were given life sentences. As of 2020, all offenders are out of prison.
6 They Sued Disney And Won
There are not so many clubs who have sued Disney and won. However, Hells Angels sued Disney because they used their name and logo in the movie Wild Hogs without credit or permission from the club. The Hells Angels could build a strong case and deserved their victory in court.
5 George Harrison Helped Them To Get To The UK
In 1968, George Harrison of The Beatles played a small role in getting the club into the UK. He invited several Hells Angels to London where he was hosting a lavish Christmas party. George Harrison met the guys during his trip to California. 2 members could make it over and built connections with local bikers.
4 Oftentimes, They Go The Legal Way
Even though the Hells Angels is a one percent club, they often participate in legal activities, especially when they feel their name has been used without permission. In attempts to stop people from making profits off them, the club sued Toys ‘R’ Us, Amazon, Saks, Zappos, Alexander McQueen and Marvel.
3 There Were Hired As Security For The Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones once had a free-entry Altamont concert, and they asked the Hells Angels to work as security for them. The place was flooded with people. The gang got paid in beer and didn't even complain. However, the combination of drunk bikers and desperate fans led to a disaster. Four people died.
2 Maurice "Mom" Boucher – The Famous Ex-Leader
Maurice "Mom" Boucher is one of the most famous club ex-leaders. He is a "convicted murderer and drug trafficker and is currently serving three life sentences with no possibility of parole for 25 years. At 64 years old, he still has another 10 years to serve before even being eligible."
1 They Use Many Symbols
One of the most recognizable Hells Angels symbols is the dead head designed by Frank Sadilek. They also use military-style patches, but their meanings are kept in secret. Red and white are the main colors. The number 81 is used very often, representing the placement of the letters H and A in the alphabet.