American Biker Events - Motorcycle Club Patches Guidelines

As the owner of Discount Patches and Pins (www.discountpatchesandpins.com), I have come to learn that these are the unwritten rules for developing patches.

Motorcyclists are not only proud of their bikes, but often wear jacket patches to signify their connections to the motorcycle world. Different numbers of patches represent different things to motorcycle riders. A one-piece patch normally represents a family club or social motorcycle club. A two-piece patch can have many different meanings. Both of these types should be respectful to the area clubs by not infringing on their established territory. A three-piece patch normally signifies that the club is a Traditional Motorcycle Club (MC). These are worn with the top rocker showing the club name, the middle showing the club’s patch and the bottom showing their territory location. There are also a few 3-piece patch clubs where the bottom rocker has something other than territory, such as a saying. The traditional MC is one that adheres to the protocols and traditions that have long been established. There are a few exceptions including veterans, firefighters, and Christian groups. Law-enforcement groups stand alone because, they are the law.

The dominant club or local MC has expectations for others to adhere to when developing their patches. One piece back patches are generally approved, unless the patch displays stolen logos or those that are similar to the local MC. The UK is the only place where wearing any back patch other than the dominant club’s has created problems.

Rocker patches (these are the top and bottom curved patches) are NOT AN OPTION FOR A RIDING CLUB PERIOD, UNLESS DIRECTLY SANCTIONED BY THE LOCAL DOMINANT CLUB. No rocker patches in any shape or form, not even unified rockers that are actually 1 piece are appropriate. ROCKERS ARE ROCKERS no matter what. This also includes any little patches that may have a rocker type design and are to be worn on the front of the riders’ vest or jacket.

Never claim territory with a patch. DO NOT HAVE THE NAME OF YOUR STATE EMBROIDERED ON THE BACK OF YOUR VEST OR JACKET (even if it’s not in a rocker patch). That’s claiming territory and will get you places you don't want to be.

CLB's or chapter location bars are generally found on the front of an MC member’s jacket or vest. This small rectangular patch is how MC's readily identify each other without actually wearing full colors. The rectangular patch will be that club’s colors, so these should not be worn by other riding clubs.

When designing your patch, it would be a good idea to get to know some of your area clubs, and observe their designs and colors. If you can, bring your design to your local dominant club, and show it to them before having them made, making sure they approve. Although this may be intimidating, generally, the dominant clubs are very receptive to this and will respect you for your consideration.

To keep it simple, a three-piece patch is only worn by established MC's. Anything that resembles this could turn out as a disaster. Do your homework, and show respect.

Written by: “No Rules”

co-authors: “wrongwayjay” and “longbike”

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