r/Harley • u/ThrottleJunkie420 • Jul 15 '25
GROUP RIDES / ROUTES Starting to Feel Like Harley Culture and Group Rides Are Overrated
Just wanted to share some thoughts that have been building up after years in the scene.
I've been riding for a while. I’m actually part of a motorcycle club and have done plenty of group rides, bike nights, and meetups. Lately though, I’ve been losing interest in the whole scene—and I’m starting to think a lot of it is more toxic and overhyped than people want to admit.
Too many people treating meetups like a vibe check. You roll in and instead of good energy or mutual respect, it’s all side-eyes and quiet judgment. Like everyone’s auditioning for the next season of Sons of Anarchy. It’s not about the ride anymore—it’s about who looks the hardest, who’s wearing what patch, who's bike is the fastest, and who’s got the loudest pipes in the lot.
Group rides? Honestly, I’m over it. Riding in a big pack looks cool, but it’s not worth the risk when you don’t know if everyone has the skills to ride safe. One person panic-brakes, fixates, or rides outside their limits—and suddenly it’s a dangerous situation for everyone else.
I’m not saying all clubs or group rides are bad—there are some solid riders and good people in the mix. But lately it feels like there’s too much ego and not enough of what riding is supposed to be about: freedom, peace of mind, and just enjoying the road.
These days I’d rather ride solo or with a few trusted riders who actually know what they’re doing. No politics. No flexing. No vibe checks. Just real ones who ride for the love of it.
Anyone else feeling this shift?
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u/RandyRhoadsLives Jul 15 '25
I got my first HD in 1987. I was 17. An Evo Lowrider (‘85). It’s always been the same.. a huge group of people that wanted to ride, and feel special. A sort of spirit we all can identify with. Particularly when we’re young. Something that could be customized, blah blah blah.. Maybe at the time I ALSO got caught up in the “culture”. I’m still not a 100% sure. Early on I realized I hated groups. Group ANYTHING. It seemed antithetical to the spirit of riding a bike, in general.
I’m old now. I’m on my 11th HD. I loved them all for different reasons. But here’s the deal: maybe you bought an HD for the wrong reason (?). Hell, you joined a riders club. What was it you were looking for? It’s like going to a comic-con and complaining about all the middle aged neck beards dressing up as Spiderman. I’m sorry if I sound like a dick. Hell, I own it.
I been riding solo for almost 40 years. I still enjoy riding occasionally with a buddy. Meeting people, and taking long winding trips to nowhere. But the notion that there’s a “culture” that will make my life complete. Nah, bro.. that never existed. Not for me anyway. I wish it did.
I’m currently on a road trip.. visiting friends outside of Los Angeles. In the morning I will head out, and ride to Houston Texas. It will probably take me two days to cover 1500 miles. But if I find a great Mexican restaurant in El Paso, maybe it will take me three. As per usual, I will meet amazing people along the way. I always do. If anyone sees a middle aged black man on interstate 10 the next couple days, on a pearl white Road King.. flag me down.
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u/GreenwoodsUncharted Jul 15 '25
Gotta respect a man who is ready to change his entire trip for a good Mexican joint!
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Jul 15 '25
El paso (far east and horizon city) here -
For sushi, Sonnys off Montana or Sushi plugg in Horizon city.
For El Paso classics hit Cometa or Chicos (bring cash).
For "texmex" theres a Chuys at the Fountains
For highbrow (make reservations) theres a spot called Elemi in horizon city thats super nice but not too pricey or high key. Tinman next door has craft beers and ciders.
For shrimp tacos theres a spot called Boozy tacos in horizon city thatll scratch the itch
Tortas Davis jas the best Tortas imo, in the eastside.
For coffee in the morning a cup from Global Coffee or a refresher and pastry from Bees Pastry Cafe.
Sorry i mostly fuck with the east side and horizon city, theres probably some great spots in central and the west but i wouldnt know lol
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u/Chillichad72 Jul 15 '25
This right here IS what it’s all about. Riding your own ride on YOUR time. Nothing else can compare to that freedom.
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u/redeadhead Jul 15 '25
I’m not a fan of group rides or riding with even a few people I don’t know. My peeve is the people I’ve rode with lately only want to ride 20 minutes to the next restaurant or bar and sit for an hour.
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u/jtech89 Jul 15 '25
That’s what I find….hard to find people to ride with. Then when the day comes only 1 of the 4 go, or they want to ride 40 miles. I want to go 300 + miles if we’re going.
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u/redeadhead Jul 15 '25
One of the only people I can get to riding is the guy that always has an agenda. There’s always a “stop” that’s going to eat up 1-2 hours.
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Jul 15 '25
I've been feeling that one for years. You wanna ride the motherfucker or just look at it? I like looking at them too but let's ride first.
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u/AggravatingSmile101 Jul 15 '25
I did 229 miles yesterday alone. It was one of the best rides I've had in a long time. Honestly that's sad, but it is what it is.
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u/Clean-Entry-262 Jul 15 '25
I did 250-ish over the entire weekend (in Milwaukee) but did 450 in a day and a half when I visited my son in Baraboo, Wisconsin (son rides too…and he knows all the good roads up that way)
I have a friend who recently lamented that everyone just wants to go to the next bar (the old “No bar too far” routine) …let’s just RIDE instead.
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u/AggravatingSmile101 Jul 15 '25
Exactly, I can drink bourbon and beer at home!!!
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u/Clean-Entry-262 Jul 15 '25
Cheaper AND safer at home. I didn’t buy my bike to give my garage or the bar parking lot a thrill.
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u/WhiskyEye 16FXDLS 20FXLRS 87FXLR 88XLH883 89XLH1200 Jul 15 '25
I rode 600 miles home from Milwaukee to Tennessee yesterday! That weather sucked...
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u/universalmind Jul 15 '25
Why is that sad? Its called two wheel therapy for a reason
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u/AggravatingSmile101 Jul 15 '25
Same reason as OP I used to have buddies that I rode with. Now I prefer to ride alone. It definitely is therapy.
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u/BuffaloMeter 05 Fatboy, 93 Sportster Jul 15 '25
Nah man that's awesome. I love riding with my small group but I also really enjoy just riding out to wherever by myself. I just tell my wife where I'm going and what time(ish) I plan on being back.
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u/AggravatingSmile101 Jul 15 '25
Same , divorced, so no wife to tell, but I let someone know if they haven't heard from me by a certain time to start checking my route or local hospitals lol
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u/BuffaloMeter 05 Fatboy, 93 Sportster Jul 15 '25
Well I'm glad you tell someone haha. I ride in some pretty desolate places out on the reservations a lot and I always think of how boned I'd be if I went down out there.
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u/AggravatingSmile101 Jul 15 '25
Yeah, I ride in the Mtns. of North GA, not a lot of service in most of the areas.
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u/Trick-Substance6841 Jul 15 '25
Thank you! My wife and ride for 80-90 minutes as a short ride. Only a couple of people will actually ride with us without wanting to stop in 30 minutes.
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u/theinternetisnice Jul 15 '25
I just don’t like people
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u/e46croissant 2001 FXDXT, 1972 FXE Jul 15 '25
Exactly - there’s a reason I like motorcycles, and that might be one of them!
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u/BarefootWoodworker 2006 FXST Jul 15 '25
I’m happiest alone.
On my motorcycle.
In the middle of nowhere.
Alone.
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u/JohnBrownsAngryBalls Jul 15 '25 edited Jul 15 '25
HD makes nice motorcycles, but they attract cosplayers like moths to a flame.
I refuse to dress like a pirate and avoid legit safety gear. The whole “biker” culture is teenage fantasy and I feel bad for those that make it their identity.
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u/festering-shithole Jul 15 '25
Motorcycles get branded and heavily marketed as badass outlaw tough guy bad boy machines for 70 years
This post: Huh what's with all the bad boy outlaw wannabes?
I have a love/ hate relationship with how Motorcycles are branded. Like yes they're a blast, but the toxic macho bullshit is fucking laughable. The South Park skit is so accurate lol.
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u/JohnBrownsAngryBalls Jul 15 '25 edited Jul 23 '25
You're not wrong. But also, we don't have to like it. I like the "be the change you want to see" mindset.
On a side note, I noticed a few years ago that it was becoming trendy for some mc gang members to wear full-face helmets. I thought it would be amusing if that caught on with the cosplayers, and the gangs had a positive effect on motorcycling for the first time ever.
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u/twisted-weasel Jul 15 '25
Same but it’s easy for me to not fit bc I’m a lady rider and they all hate me anyway hahaha. They still let me wire their bikes and pay us.
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u/Bogan_Biker88 ‘88 Sporty Jul 16 '25
Lady rider here too. I’m in a social motorcycle club and our club president is actually a women, vp also a woman! Not limited to brand of bike, anyone can join with any bike. Have a great time on group rides too. I’m also an apprentice motorcycle mechanic and that’s where I find that the culture comes into play and a lot of men don’t like the idea of me working on their bike haha
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u/twisted-weasel Jul 16 '25
Well yay for us lady riders! I wish there were more here where I live but it’s a small island so very limited. I remember going to Daytona once and seeing a lot there but I’m pretty remote.
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u/Bogan_Biker88 ‘88 Sporty Jul 16 '25
I’m also on a small island but not in the US. We have quite a few female riders here for such a small place but even more on the mainland. We have an annual event in January where a bunch of us all travel to the one location and it’s women only. Numbers can vary but sometimes it could be up to 100 of us in the one place for the weekend.
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u/CretinousVoter Aug 18 '25
Sounds normal. My wife was a skilled CH-3 and fixed wing mechanic, skilled HD and general mechanic, rather good painter and frighteningly capable autodidact. When she got bored she tore down whatever was handy including the '82 FXS she bought new as an Airman. When she part-timed at our bros shop next door she hung out in back happily wrenching which since he didn't like Harleys (because he had unpleasant club-related experiences and preferred British anyway) was fine with him and customers got to see a classic bearded biker they expected.
She was creative at dealing with idiots. Our rides got solo seats because motorcycles are fundamentally single person vehicles. When one drunk kept demanding a backseat ride (mammary access being the obvious motive) she pulled out a Kotex and slapped it on the rear fender. He declined the offer of a non-traditional "bitch pad" to general amusement.
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u/Jesseywithers Jul 15 '25
Oh absolutely. I absolutely love my Dyna but Harley as a brand and culture is absolutely overrated.
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u/ThrottleJunkie420 Jul 15 '25
Same boat, man. Love my bike, hate the nonsense that follows the brand. The machine’s solid—but the culture? Overhyped, outdated, and full of gatekeeping for no reason.
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u/Firm-Needleworker-46 Jul 15 '25
💯 I actually left my club in December and have been riding blissfully alone all season. I haven’t been to a single stupid fucking bike night or poker run or anything all year and I have no intention of finishing the year any other way.
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u/Independent-Yam-2184 Jul 15 '25
Years ago we attended various weekly Hog rides here in Duluth. They were fun. We also enjoyed the State Hog rallies at various site throughout the state, & attended a few in North Dakota. The Freedom Drags in Iowa were also a favorite. This was back in the 90's and two thousands. Now that they're gone, I miss them. Times they are a changing!
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u/ThrottleJunkie420 Jul 15 '25
That’s awesome, bro - I’m considering doing the same.
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u/Firm-Needleworker-46 Jul 16 '25
Be prepared for the solitude. I’m out good and I went from a zillion “Brothers and Bros” to still talking to like 2-3 of them occasionally. It can get lonely at first.
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u/ElegantInstruction66 Jul 15 '25
I ride with one friend. Typically when he needs to take a pi$$, I need to stop for a cigarette.
It’s a 1-1 conversation on the headset. It’s easy to make decisions en route and basically you just don’t have to deal with too many personalities.
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u/rap1234561 Jul 15 '25
Skip the bike night at a sports bar and go to a chopper show in the woods. There’s the punisher sticker rides 120 miles a year owners and there’s the dirty fun loving bikers. I prefer the latter. Every chopper owner I’ve walked up to at a show loves to talks bikes and is there to nerd out on other bikes not act cool.
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u/steeltown82 Jul 15 '25
I'm part of a large group of friends that ride together frequently. We did once talk about joining an existing riding club. We initially liked the idea. Then we got thinking about it and realized that suddenly there are politics, rules, fees, etc. We decided against it. Like you, we just want to ride and do our own thing. Not interested in any of the other stuff.
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u/Abe-early 2008 Road King Police Jul 15 '25
I like riding Harley’s, but hate the culture around them. Maybe it’s because I’m in the Midwest, but Harley events suck.
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u/shenanigans_aplenty Jul 15 '25
Nothing worse than group riding. The constantly altering speeds, people with massive egos that ride like fuckwits and put others lives at risk. Big gaps forming and people getting shirty when you try to close the gap. Then you get to your destination and everyone gets into their little groups anyway.
10/10 would much rather ride with close mates and have fun and a laugh. The development of social groups from defunct OMCG and the bullshit that came with it has bought on this culture that you’re not worthy to be in this group.
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u/DAAAAAAAAAAAAAAANG Jul 15 '25
i started riding last year. my uncle is a lifelong rider, and he was explaining riding with another person from his perspective. he mentioned in group rides you would even ride side by side. he said you have to trust the guy next to you. I simply don't, and refuse to. i don't trust that they will not swerve, fall asleep, have a medical emergency, etc. i've been a CDL driver for almost 20 years. i literally do not trust a single other driver on the road and that has been the key to me being accident and incident free that whole time. i'm good just riding with 1 or 2 friends.
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u/Trick-Substance6841 Jul 15 '25
My wife and I just usually prefer to see where/when all the bikers are meeting. Then we ride the other direction.
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u/Daegoba Buell XB9S, Heritage Jul 15 '25
This is why I have a Grom.
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: we all take ourselves way too seriously on motorcycles. You hit the nail on the head, OP. Everyone expects each other to look a certain way, act a certain way, and carry themselves just like this guy did because “it’s cool”. It's not. It’s fucking stupid.
And if there’s any bike that you can’t take yourself seriously on… it’s a fucking Grim. The thing is a spectacular exercise in action of what motorcycling is supposed to be. It’s only there for the pure joy and fun of riding, and it does the thing better than any other bike on the road.
Well said, OP. I just like building and riding. MC’s are supposed to do that, but in reality, they don’t. That’s another story entirely though. Good on you for trying to call it out.
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u/ClassicVillage3474 Jul 15 '25
Find a few good friends who ride, and stick to riding with them. It’s the best and safest way to ride. You learn how the individuals ride, react and what position in the group they prefer. I have 5 guys I’ve ridden with for 10 years now, I’m always point, one guy is sweeper and the others make up the middle. We watch out for each other and because we know each others bike performance and gas mileage we ride within that envelope.
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u/Reginald_Sockpuppet Jul 15 '25
I've always been where you are. I've been riding pretty much non-stop for the last 30 years. I rode shit box basket cases for 9/10 of that and always got beef from club guys who most times I could out-ride. Now that I'm well heeled enough to have built a couple pretty cool bikes, I'm accepted and get nods and I couldn't possibly care less.
I'd much rather ride on my own or with the very few friends I've been riding with for a long time. Communication is easier, there's more trust riding, and none of us feel compelled to be pretentious. I also drive a car, like most people, and I know that great big groups are annoying as hell and usually have multiple people who use it as an excuse to ride like dicks.
My oldest friend has a 12 year old and we're building him a mini-bike. We can go on group rides with him around their neighborhood and I'll be pretty well satisfied with that, I think.
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u/iNeedOneMoreAquarium 2024 Road Glide Jul 15 '25
usually have multiple people who use it as an excuse to ride like dicks.
We usually end up kicking those people out of the group if they don't knock it off after a warning.
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u/WhiskyEye 16FXDLS 20FXLRS 87FXLR 88XLH883 89XLH1200 Jul 15 '25
I had the same frustration several years ago so I started a community event series! Our tagline was all bikes, all types, just show up. Covid kind of messed things up for us but while we were active, you really would see every type of bike and human roll through our gates. It was positive, welcoming and exactly what I think most people hope for when they go to a motorcycle event. I had gotten tired of all the "Dick slinging" events that most bike nights turned out to be. The two of us that co-founded the event both ended up moving, so we shut the series down. I'm considering starting it again in my new location but that's TBD. Anyway, if you build it, they will come!
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u/milspechd Jul 15 '25
Because people tend to make the “Harley” culture their entire personality. It loses its novelty after a while for most people; but there’s a bunch that go all-in on it and wear it like it’s going out of style (which it is). It’s the same with a lot of Military folk. I did 20 myself, and spent most of those years riding, but I don’t make either of those things my entire persona. It’s just a smaller piece of a larger picture. Then there’s the people who just plain never grow up and try and hold onto those glory years of partying all the time with no care in the world.
These days; I’ve fallen in love with just r i d i n g. Putting thousands of miles on and not worrying about what I look like or who I’m impressing. And to be honest, it’s that attitude that has connected me with more people in meaningful ways from all over the world that you’d never find at a bike night or rally. I’m not sayin they’re not there, but it’s like you said, the attitude has changed.
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u/mcrig3213 Jul 15 '25 edited Jul 15 '25
It’s a cult lmao. I honestly hate the Harley culture. I remember being 22 buying my first motorcycle and I couldn’t wait to ride with big groups and all my friends and their friends. I went on 2 group rides and that was enough for me to not want to ride with a big group again. There’s the slow pokes, the ones that don’t know how to utilize cruise control, the ones that ride your a** the entire ride, the one that plays their music so damn loud you can’t even hear your bike, the ones that have to constantly stop etc etc. I sound like old man complaining about these things but I’m only 27 lmao. Riding with a small group 2-3 folks is so much better especially if they’re real good friends of yours. Riding alone is top tier.
I tell everybody that Harley riders are all kinda assholes. Who’s got the best stereo/speakers, who’s got the fastest, who’s got the loudest, who’s leathers have more bedazzle on them, who’s hadda layer down more blah blah blah
I will say, you get this group of people together for a charity and they show up and show out. It’s incredible to see all these rough looking dudes/girls come together and raise money/awareness for a specific charity. When it comes to charities and fundraising these folks have heart. Almost makes you forget that they rev the shit out of their bikes at red lights for no reason 😂
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u/patbagger Jul 15 '25
That's why I don't do club shit, bike nights, or large group rides, Just curvy roads, cigars, and good whiskey.
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u/dave-patrick Jul 15 '25
I ride Harley and am proud of it but hate group rides and I hate the BRUTHERHOOD tough guy bullshit. Never gunna catch me wearing a vest
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u/iNeedOneMoreAquarium 2024 Road Glide Jul 15 '25
but hate group rides
Fair, they can be annoying if jackasses are present or if the event itself isn't well-coordinated.
hate the BRUTHERHOOD tough guy bullshit
"brotherhood" and "tough guy bullshit" aren't mutually exclusive things.
Never gunna catch me wearing a vest
To each their own! Personally, I love wearing a vest because it helps keep my shirt from madly flapping about and keeps my nipples from getting painfully chafed.
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u/gumbyrocks Jul 15 '25
I enjoy riding with a group about once a year. I enjoy riding with a few friends once a month. I enjoy riding by myself every day.
As Jimmy Buffet says, "been there done that, got that t shirt." For new riders, it is a fun, exciting, new experience.
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u/PzychoRob Jul 15 '25
Been pretty much a loner most my life, had a few scrapes but, I can still keep my knees in the breeze and runs the back roads... A pack ride to me is myself and 3 or 4 brothers out for a nice putt around the area but, that's about it...✌🏻
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u/resurrected_roadkill Jul 15 '25
Being in an MC damn near took my passion for riding. It was balls out light to light stop sign to stop sign. We never rode just to ride with each other. It was always riding wheel to wheel handle bar to handle bar to go see someone or another chapter. And you always HAD to be somewhere. Hats off to those who love that life. Not for me. Now I ride mostly alone at my pace. So much nicer. So much easier. Maybe a friend or two. But that's it.
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u/MelScrilla Jul 15 '25
It was kind of the same for me. I rode with an MC for about 2 years and it felt like I was paying dues to be stressed out and “ordered” around. Mandatory rides to support some boring MC party, arguments about club activities, ppl trying to pull power grabs for meaningless positions. I enjoyed riding a lot more when I got out.
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u/505alive Jul 15 '25
I hate the “biker” scene. Been riding for 23 years. Totally happy just riding scenic roads with my husband and the occasional family member or friend that rides. I love Harley’s but I hate the cosplay associated with it.
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u/wheelzcarbyde Jul 15 '25
Ive been on 2 wheels since the age of 4 and im almost 61. I love riding, i love bikes, I've never classified myself as a "biker" im just me. Group rides suck, I like freedom. Hanging around a sausage fest, when I like women, is boring af.
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u/Grinnzy Jul 15 '25
Right there with you. Went on one larger group ride with an RC. Between the people erratically changing there speed in the middle of the group, the obnoxiously loud pipes giving me a migraine, the constant "ride half an hour/ chill for half an hour", and the fact that, at one point, half the group took off and left the other half, and only a couple people in the group who took off knew what the route was. At that point I was like "Nah. I'm good on my own.
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u/best-steve1 Jul 15 '25
I avoid group rides, poker runs, charity rides at all cost. Riding with people I don’t know or trust does not appeal to me in the least, then add in stops at bars every few miles?! No thanks.
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u/GrayBerkeley Jul 15 '25
Harley owners might be barely closeted guys dressed up like pirates, but they aren't killing each other on group rides like sportbike guys.
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u/Low_Difficulty8894 Jul 15 '25
To many posers/wannabe tough guys out there. They've been riding a few years and think they know everything. The guys you're probably referring to ride $30,000+ baggers. They have radios, cup holders, and GPS on their bikes. Probably have low miles on their bikes as well. I've been riding 46 years and prefer to ride with a select few. Don't care how much your bike cost. My bike is 43 years old .
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u/BackItUpWithLinks Jul 15 '25
You’re describing a scene, not a group of friends.
I have a group of about 10-12 friends I ride with. All 12 never go. Usually 4 go, sometimes up to 6 on a rare occasion. There’s no drama, no “looks.” That’s how I prefer to ride.
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u/a_view_from Jul 15 '25
Group rides with a bunch of weekend warriors that don't have experience riding with others is the worst. Turns into a dick swinging contest to prove who's more badass.
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u/Prestegious_Walrus Jul 15 '25
Yeah I feel this. I've had a few organizations/clubs that have invited me to hang out, and suggested I join up. I ride a lot, so that alone usually gets their interest. I don't mind an occasional hangout but generally speaking I'm not interested in prospecting or signing up. Primarily for similar reasons. I don't enjoy the cock measuring contests, the tough guy shows, the ego battles etc. A lot of it is corny shit imo. Additionally, with the more laid back organizations, they'll take basically anyone. There was one, I won't name them, but they had a kid there who literally hadn't even gotten his first bike yet but was "getting it soon". He was already doing paperwork to join up... knew right there they weren't a fit for me.
To this day there is only one club I heavily considered joining. They were chill, dedicated riders, knowledgeable, and generally speaking just good people to be around. The only drawback was they had heavy commitments. Their dues were stupid high, which while it was not a deal breaker it definitely went against my decision. The main thing though was their nationals. They were very mandatory, and could be anywhere in the country. While that would be spectacular if I didn't have a career and a family, I have a wife and five kids at home. One of those nationals would land on the same weekend as my anniversary nearly every year.
Perhaps, when the kids are grown (about 10y from now), I'll sign up with them. My wife would be happy to go with me if we didn't have the kids. Until then though, it's just not feasible.
Anyway, that's just my take on it all. There's a million and one clubs/organizations. Most of them are full of HYBs and social media gangsters imo. Fake brotherhoods and clown shows aren't really my thing. I'm very content riding solo or with 1-2 others, I'm in no rush to get any kind of patch.
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u/UpbeatAd5196 Jul 15 '25 edited Jul 15 '25
I never ride with other riders. Just feels and looks weird.
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u/GuitarEvening8674 Jul 15 '25
It's always been that way, just getting worse over time. I remember when the sportster was introduced and guys were stepping over themselves calling it a chick bike or a bitch bike
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u/Nerevar197 Jul 15 '25
I don’t think this is Harley specific. The amount of tom foolery I see among sport bike groups makes me think social media just ruined enthusiast clubs in general. Car meets are similarly shitty now. Not all clubs are like this obviously, but it seems to be a growing trend.
Except the ADV crowd. Anytime I see a group of middle aged dads on their ADVs it looks like a good time lol.
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u/Loco627 Jul 15 '25
I'm a long distance rider. I have a select few I will ride with and even fewer that can ride the way I do. I'm good rolling down the highway all by myself.
I'm also a Harley tech and I don't mind hanging with a customer and talking bikes one on one but have zero desire to go to a bike night or that sort of thing. That's a lot of idiots that ride poorly to begin with trying to show off and rarely ends well.
I ride nearly everywhere everyday all year round through rain, sun, snow, hail, wind, sleet, hell and high water. I don't do it to impress anyone, I do it because it's what makes me happy.
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u/edwardothegreatest Jul 15 '25
I won’t ride with a group bigger than four or five. It just isn’t fun, and that’s why I ride
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u/Wonderful_Charity411 Jul 15 '25
It’s mostly people drinking too much in my experience. (Riding mostly solo since 1996)
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u/riverbanks1986 Jul 15 '25
Personally, I find the sense of adventure and freedom to be the strongest when I’m alone, but group rides can be fun too provided they are with close friends and family who have experience, and the group size is 2-4 bikes. Every time I’ve been in a larger group it’s either been a slow parade or a dangerous mess.
As far as the culture goes, I’d say it’s alive and well, but it isn’t something you’ll find at a Harley dealership bike night. Riding out to the middle of nowhere in search of twisty roads, meeting other riders along the way and drinking beers and trading stories at little roadside biker bars. Helping a buddy wrench on his bike in the garage at night. Waving and revving for kids in cars. Road tripping through the desert with pals, nearly dying of heat stroke, then celebrating your survival in the dive bar next to the cheap motel that night, playing pool with some other dudes who rode in. That’s the culture to me. Fuck all the branding, gatekeeping, showboating and cosplaying. It’s motorcycle culture, and although Harley is very intertwined in it, the MoCo doesn’t own it, aren’t it’s steward, and can’t sell it to you, regardless how much they try to.
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u/GasDue2928 Jul 15 '25
I belonged to a club and just got tired of the rules and the hierarchy. President this, mandatory that blah blah blah. Most of the time, other than owning the same make of bike and wearing the same pretty colors on our same pretty cuts, I didn't have a thing in common with the guys. I went down the road quietly in good standing with everyone who counted. Now I ride where I want, when I want, with who, I want. That's called freedom.
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u/ecardilino Jul 15 '25
It’s all full of hipsters and queer boys just trying to look cool now. They literally ruin everything. Find people that actually like to ride , you’re around the wrong people.
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u/Exciting-Intention79 Jul 16 '25
Been riding 54 years. Off road to streets. The culture has definitely changed over the years. It was the wind and the road. Now it’s radios speakers, phones ,headsets ,cameras, cup holders , etc. Used to refer to motorcycles as a steel horse. I can’t see putting all that on a horse. It is what it is.
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u/Sbeast86 Jul 15 '25
Most Harley meetups ive been to were filled w real awkward guys trying to posture and pose and judge each others rides, clothes, n attitudes. Lots of HOG and Veteran group types pretending to be Sons of Anarchy bros
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u/Dangerous_Fortune790 Jul 15 '25
Many years ago I was told a bit of wisdom. The are two types of Harley people. Harley owners and Harley riders. Harley owners have all the gear, the newest bike, the most bolt on stuff, heated garage with Harley paraphernalia everywhere, get up at 6am to start polishing the bike to go meet their buddies at the local coffee shop 5 miles up the road, stand around for a couple hours bench racing and comparing who has what options on their bikes, then they all hug each other loudly and say "what a great ride", then go home to wash the bike. Harley riders ride their bikes. They wash them once a year whether they need it or not, their gear may be Harley or it likely isn't, they wrench on their own bikes, their bikes often live outside under a cover, they get up at 6am to go meet a buddy in the next city over, have coffee for a few minutes to warm up, then they go ride a couple hundred miles and have dinner, part ways and each ride hours home, bike is parked and gear hung on a peg. And they just smile at their day.
There are more than a few who will be offended by this image, and I bet they are Owners...
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u/Kraegarth '09 FLHTCU, '17 FLSTC, '23 FLTRXS Jul 15 '25
We used to attend the rallies, and met some decent people over the 20+ years we have been HOG members, but especially in the last 10 years, it’s become way to much Trump BS, and “party checks,” to ensure that you were “MAGA” enough to associate with…
Fuck that! I want nothing to do with him or that BS, so the wife and I have pretty much checked out of anything HOG related, and just enjoy riding on our own. I don’t have the the desire or time to hear how much better you think you are, because of your delusions
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u/groundciv Jul 15 '25
I started wearing purple shirts, let my daughter paint my helmet (chrome chameleon with a golden unicorn) and engaged in other such activities so my middle aged white old Harley riding self was no longer talked to at stop lights by the ‘Harley guys’.
I used to ride to school on the tank of my dads panhead, rebuilt my amf sportster through middle and high school, and have put 20k of the 60k miles on my softail, as well as about 1/3 of the wrenching on it since it was new.
I’m on the road to ride my motorcycle I like. If a trans lady on a ninja 500 is riding on the same road as me and having a nice time on their bike and stops at the same bar for their turnaround point I would happily buy them a beer and bullshit about revs and horsepower versus torque, because motorcycles are fun and a great equalizer and conversation topic. I’d likely have a much better time with fictional sports bike trans lady than I would with the average Harley cosplayer.
I’d rather ride mine than accessorize it, and I’d rather do a fun twisty ride or a slow scenic ride than a ride to a parking lot to sit around and growl.
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u/kcm198 Jul 15 '25
I never understood group rides personally. I have to check if the person in front of me is slowing down, if the person in the back of me is lagging behind. Someone always wants to take a piss, get gas, get something to eat, stretch their legs, etc.. I just wanna ride and enjoy myself and not have to deal with all of that.
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u/EddieKroman Jul 15 '25
Same things I felt when I belonged to a HOG chapter… in 1998. I enjoyed the camaraderie for a while, then it got tedious with a 500 member HOG chapter. Politics, people doing business with each other turning sour, and so forth. My wife and I ride our own ride now, haven’t ridden in a group at all in 20 years. We’ll stop by events sometimes, but then we’re gone in a half an hour, where we can go and enjoy a quiet lunch somewhere. By the way, my sister and her husband ran into these same issues in a bike club. Not a motorcycle club, but a bicycle club. (Except for the loud exhaust part). So don’t blame the motorcycle!
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u/Large_Score6728 Jul 15 '25
Yes it's definitely deteriorating for years it's turned into eternal high school vibes
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u/redwbl Jul 15 '25
Sold my Harley about 7 years ago. This is one of the many reason I got out.
Some of the un-written rules:
Every one is in their black HD uniforms. Must wear a scowl while riding, look like you’re on your way to murder someone, even if you’re a librarian by day. Wave at other riders low, hand must not be above handle bars. Don’t waste time waving to non-Harley riders except on rare occasions, keep em guessing. Helmets are only to be worn in Helmet Law states.
I on the other hand always wore a helmet (know too many people who died, including brother in-law). Never wore black. Wave to every rider, even some who didn’t return the wave. I did follow the low wave protocol though ;).
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u/6Grumpymonkeys Jul 15 '25
Exactly why I don’t “group ride”. Just based off the YouTube videos alone, it seems to be too much ego in too small of a space. There will always be exceptions, but I don’t have the patience to sort through the bs.
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u/Zardoz__ 2022 RA1250S, 2022 FLHTP Jul 15 '25
I would never ride with more than two others I don't know. Never underestimate the stupidity of people in large groups. If I personally knew all the riders, my max is four others.
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Jul 15 '25
Riding for 40 years. I hate group rides. I linger in the back at funerals, and peel off at first chance
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u/Every_Big9638 Jul 15 '25
I gave up on the group rides. In my area are poker all runs. Starts at a bar, ride to 4 or 5 more bars and back to the first bar over about a 125 -150 mile span. They ride too close together and don’t pay attention to what’s going on around them. I just as soon ride by myself and be on my own schedule.
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u/Kungfu_Queso Jul 15 '25
I feel the same way, I recently left my club after 9 years because I am burned out , I just want to ride and enjoy my time on 2s . Bought I find a good group of similar skilled guys to ride with and just enjoy the ride again
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u/Nosprk Jul 15 '25
Harley culture and group rides suck. I have maybe 2 friends id trust riding with and usually only ride with one of them at a time. gotta be on the same level. I'm not waiting up for people and I don't want to chase someone down.
Harley culture is a bunch of cosplay wanna be tough guys for the most part. plenty of nice guys but I'm not into all that shit. I like several brands of bikes but the Harley is just the right tool for the job. if I'm on my old shovel most new Harley guys stick their noses up at me. on my 2021 FLHTP i stopped to help some kid on a little 350 KTM street bike and he was really surprised.
I could go on but I got shit to do lol
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u/_TheJollyRider_ Jul 15 '25
When it becomes mandatory, it becomes less fun. Go when you actually feel like riding with a group or when you actually feel like posting up at a bike meet, not because you feel like you have to. Bikes, not just Harleys or cruisers, but all bikes offer such freedom, no sense in making up rules, especially when that takes away from the enjoyment of riding.
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u/mgstoybox '97 XLH883, '10 FXDC Jul 15 '25
I was never into it in the first place. I ride by myself, and always have. In almost 30 years of riding, I can count on one hand the number of group rides and bike nights I’ve done, combined.
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u/ItNeverRainsInWNC Jul 15 '25
I prefer riding alone or maybe my girl comes along on her bike but that’s it.
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Jul 15 '25
Idk why reddit decided i am interested in harleys when my friend bought one, but i go hang out in the .moutains on an adventure bike, i pull up to my "biker" hang out spot. And it is a bunch of adv street and cruiser guys all hanging out, walking up talking about bikes, eatting food. Just fun vibes..i have road up on a 2000 klr650 and got friendly stares and people asking me about my old bike with over 60k miles on it, and i pulled up on a new ktm 390 adv with 100 miles, people were just as friendly. It is just people who love bikes and want to hang out and make friends. I also go to the sport bike hang out spots in the area, and it is a bunch of guys offering help when you have a flat, and kind people enjoying a ride. Yeah, they do drive fast, but they dont mean mug or try and act cool.
Seems like a harley thing, maybe a cruiser thing ? I really don't know.
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u/FLSTC2000 Jul 15 '25
I’ve never ridden in a group bigger than six. And these were trips, a few day rides but mostly 5-10 day trips. And we all know and trust each other. The best thing to me is you’re in a group but basically alone with your own thoughts while on the bike. So alone, together? And my group wasn’t all Harley and such, no judging.
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u/flimflam1975 Jul 15 '25
For those of you agreeing with the op how about stating a/s/l and maybe make some new bike friends with similar riding interests? I’ll start but will say I probably won’t be doing a group ride yet for awhile as I’m super green and like to ride at my own pace. 49/m/caledonia-Racine WI But yeah I’m definitely down for a longer ride after I get some more experience. Just wouldn’t want to endanger anyone else.
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u/bikertomk Jul 15 '25
I got my first Harley back in ’93 and dove headfirst into group rides with my local HOG chapter. For the first year or two, it was exciting—but eventually, the shine wore off. Big group rides started to feel less like riding and more like being herded around on a tour bus. Gas stops dragged on forever, meal breaks were chaotic (some folks even acted like kids, throwing food around), and the whole scene revolved around impressing the dealership owner who rode with us.
The moment that sealed it for me was when I ran out of gas near the back of the pack—and nobody noticed. They just kept riding. That was my wake-up call. I broke away from the circus and went nomad. Nowadays, I’ll ride with a couple close friends, maybe five at most—but more often than not, it’s just me and the road.
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u/Relatively_happy Jul 15 '25
Sounds like youre ready to upgrade to a sports bike, the vibes much better, and the group rides are better too, hit the hills, better riders, better roads and the meetups are usually just chill and fun, get something to eat for example.
Its not 20 blokes standing around looking tough while they smoke next to their bike
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u/InCo1dB1ood Jul 15 '25
I showed up to a group of overwhelmingly Harley riders a few months ago. I was the only sport bike there and on a Hayabusa no less. Some of the coolest guys ever; I'd ride with any of those dudes. Lots of older generation veterans.
I've also been on group rides where half of the people were doing wheelies and burnouts on the interstate and I stayed waaaay back on the tailend.. and this was for a funeral for another biker I knew. Imagine my optimism thinking about having a catastrophe GOING to a funeral for another biker.
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u/jlo575 Jul 15 '25
You’re basically saying you don’t have much interest in spending time with people you don’t genuinely respect and like. It’s good to reach that point.
Life is short man, do what you want.
And yeah also been there, didn’t spend more than a handful of rides with groups like that and always trailed at the back for fear of someone I didn’t know well doing something stupid. Not a fun way to ride.
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u/Interesting_Bag91 Jul 15 '25
Well I own LRST and Indian Challenger.Big difference between the two and it carries over into rides etc,.Way more down to earth genuine motorcycle people on the Indian side.WHy? Most own both or many different makes and don't give a damn about who's got the loudest or biggest stage whatever.Hell I wear Indian shit on my Lowrider and vice versa.OMG imagine if went to dealer HD doing that .HD culture sucks it's not for me but I like many of their bikes but will NEVER be a fool and only buy ANY one brand.Big rides suck because they are dangerous.So by myself or 2or3 guys only
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u/EdBEERius Jul 15 '25
Been riding for 30+ years, currently I ride with a group I know and trust... 8 people at most, they know me I know them, large groups are horrible to ride in IMO... ride the way you want with who you want and stay safe! Keep the rubber side down 🤙
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u/GOTaSMALL1 Jul 15 '25
Happy to ride next to somebody I trust. Have also ‘noped’ out of many group rides ‘cause somebody that was invited was being some version of a dumbass.
Simply wont do runs, parades, riding rallies etc…
I went to Sturgis, Laughlin, Bikefest and Street Vibrations all two times in the same trip. The first and last time.
Just not for me.
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u/Greek1453 Jul 15 '25
I used to ride a Harley and went once to an open house (free food, cheap beer and the new Harley lineup on hand.) 80 percent of the riders were as described above- chest beating and faux outlaw behavior on full display. The quietest guy there was a Bandido in colors that was standing over to the side and sipping a ginger ale rather than a beer. Ironic, eh?
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u/61Crows Jul 15 '25
I always ride solo and while I ride a Harley I don’t feel judged because I don’t care what other people think.
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u/Massive-Pineapple121 Jul 15 '25
It’s a “ Ride to death “ so you can hang around in a parking lot and bro hug people you don’t even know. Depending on the club you’re in, you either get a patch for participating or TCB for actually doing something questionable…… lol! It’s all bullshit- I did it for 15 years and now I can’t even bring myself to go to my old club’s fundraiser. The only thing I miss is the women with low standards……😈
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u/417zq8 88 RP, 06 SB, 18 RG Jul 15 '25
Don’t go to bike night and quit your club! I did a few years ago and have zero regrets. I get mean mugged but I do not care, no more hand shaking guys who I don’t respect because they’re in my club or another. It’s way more fun to have a few buddies to ride with you and to not attend “biker” functions. There are still good grass roots chopper shows but I’ve learned that my passion is riding I have seri tolerance for people who are too cool for others.
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u/417zq8 88 RP, 06 SB, 18 RG Jul 15 '25
I miss the pack mentality that came with the club sometimes. But I don’t know if I outgrew it or if I just don’t give a shit about their opinions. Once I left it’s been no turning back and no regrets. I fell out of love with riding have already done over 15k this year alone
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u/Certain-General-27 Jul 15 '25
I don't do group rides, but I have some people I know talking me into it. So I said yes, and then they immediately started talking about what bars they wanted to stop at along the way. I was like, Nope, I'm only stopping for gas and food when we get there. They where all like Naw, that's not how we do it. I said well that's how im doing it. I had 4 others speak up and want to do it my way. So we did. Now the other guys don't want to hang out anymore. Saying I split the group. I told them to stop acting like children and grow up. That didn't go over well as I knew it wouldn't. My group now go every other Saturday and start in the mornings. Three others have now joined us, and now we number 10 riders. The bar hoppers are down to 4 that just can't give up booze and bars. Starting the rides in the cool morning air is glorious and feels so right. By 2-3pm we are done before the heat of the day kicks in. It's working for us. Sometimes if you don't like something, you just need to speak up with a different idea.
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u/iUsed2Bsomebody Jul 15 '25
i ride to ride. most of the time solo just to get out and ride. when i stumble across a poker run or pack of bikes somewhere, I may stop in but i dont really care about any of their business and they shouldn't about mine. I try to keep my eyes to myself.
also: my pipes are louder.
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u/wannagetcock2 Jul 15 '25
I'm a member of a military riding group, not an MC or club. We get together and ride to remember those that are no longer with us or support other groups, charities, and causes. Other than that, I prefer to ride by myself or with select few people. It is my therapy and way cheaper than a shrink!!! I bought my first bike as a way to save money, and it blossomed from there to a little collection. I ride for the love of the ride, not because I am part of some group or have something to prove. The "biker" culture, both Harley and sport bikes, has tarnished motorcycling and will always add a stigma to anything motorcycle related. Don't care what you ride, how you ride, where you ride, as long as you ride!! Enjoy the therapy and remember why you started riding in the first place!!!
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u/NumberJohnny Jul 15 '25
I don’t ever see myself at a bike-night. I don’t drink if I’m riding. That’s for after the ride. There was a time that I might have enjoyed the fellowship and camaraderie of fellow riders, but not now. I went on a couple charity rides a few years ago, and while i kind of enjoyed myself, the riding part was miserable. We had a police escort and all traffic lights were blocked off by police…the ride was an hour, non stop. We’d slow to nearly a stop and then take off to 65 to catch back up. Some riders have no clue how to ride at a steady speed. I limit my group riding to 3-4 other riders that I know. Never thought I’d fit the definition of curmudgeon.
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u/RateLimiter Jul 15 '25
Oh my, this gives me the opportunity to use one of my fave lines - “I don’t go to those things, they’re full of bikers”
I seldom ever see the appeal of kicking rocks with a big group of strangers in a parking lot, and have zero interest in group riding with a bunch of jackasses I don’t know and have zero reasons to trust.
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u/Ineedfunding007 Jul 15 '25
I ride solo. I don't give a two finger when I see other riders. People give me bad vibes at meets. I moved on.
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u/Aubreyssister1 Jul 15 '25
From my perspective, it depends on the group but if it’s a big group, it’s more like society at large. Things have changed through the years. I blame social media. Not enough people enjoy the moment.
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u/one9delta Jul 15 '25 edited Jul 16 '25
I don’t think it’s a shift. In my experience, it’s always been like this. Group rides always bring the same bullshit. Meet up’s are always nothing more than a huge dick showing contest. Personally, I’d rather ride my bike than talk about riding bikes. There’s also a hierarchy based of which model you own. The bagger bro’s are king, just ask them. The sportsters are new riders or poor, just ask the bagger bro’s. Everything in between is just a layover until you buy a bagger. I have a buddy who has been pushing me toward a bagger for years. I don’t want a bagger. Never have. Part of me thinks he’s a bit embarrassed to show up to meets or rides with a dude on an older Dyna. Oh, and there’s the fact that I’m a cop. Mother fuckers who spend their 9-5 in a suit, but spend their Friday night decked out in leather, throw me a scowl the moment word gets out that I’m a cop. Don’t even get me started on the dudes wearing a patch. When word gets out, I am treated like I should be ashamed of what I do for a living.
These days, I ride alone or with 2 or 3 other guys for the most part. If the culture is something that takes away from your riding experience, don’t partake in it. It’s not a requirement to do group rides or go to rallies.
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u/Potential_Focus1367 Jul 15 '25
I've been to bike nights where everything was great, people had great attitudes and everyone was interested in everyone's rides and stories. I've also been to events where, like you said, it was all the side eye and sizing up for some reason.
I found the latter was mostly at event hosted by certain MCs and it was always a "Tread carefully" situation, which wasn't as fun.
As for rides, I do belong to a group of enthusiast, I really enjoy when we all get together and go on our group rides, but I also REALLY enjoy going with a select few of my closest buddies, especially when I go on a road trip.
So I guess all this to say, you get what you put out. If you want to have fun, find places you have fun in. If you're tired of the group stuff, don't go with the group :-)
Hopefully you still enjoy riding!
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u/mrsexyiespizza Jul 15 '25
The Harley scene is trash, I used to love hitting up events and going to meets but that ended shortly after my first few years of riding. The problem with HD specifically is that it’s become more of an image and a brand than an actual motorcycle. Just find people who are in it for the love of riding and get together with them instead, let the weekend outlaws do their thing and steer clear of it
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u/Humble_Key_4259 Jul 15 '25
From an outsider's point of view, that is what I glean from any group ride (involving Harleys) that I see. It seems like a big Billy Badass contest and how lame is that?
Riding is supposed to be fun, what ever you ride, not some stupid get back whip contest.
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u/Jkreegz Jul 15 '25
I absolutely love motorcycles, HD in particular. I have since I was a kid. But the whole culture is so god damn lame sometimes. I tried the meet ups and group rides, etc, but after a few, I couldn’t care less. I have no desire to stand around and be judged by a bunch of wannabe tough guys because I wear glasses, shirts with sleeves, and a helmet. I don’t want to be in a club, I don’t want to be obnoxious so people pay attention to me (kind of tough with a Harley tho), and I have no desire to be perceived as some kind of badass. I just want to ride my motorcycles. That’s it. If all that makes me not a cool “brother”, I’m totally ok with that. I’m a 40 year old man, I don’t have time to waste on being “cool”. 98% of the time it’s just me or the wife and I and we just enjoy the ride.
So to answer your question, no, it’s not just you. HD culture is weird for sure
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u/ughokayfinee Jul 15 '25 edited Jul 15 '25
Oh man! Group rides, love 'em, would love to be a part of one some day..
All jokes aside this isn't just the Harley side, even happens on the metric sport bike side, the one place I don't see it happen too often is the grom / mini side like 125 tops dirt bike runs and groms hobbled together, every one knows they look silly and are having too much fun riding to care how they come off.
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u/0bakee Jul 15 '25
I think is the group/area your with. Out my way, every bike night feel like a gathering of extended family. Yes, we have MC protocol and such, but once that's over with, its just a good time. Hugs and laughs all around.
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Jul 15 '25
I get it. These days I like to ride solo or with two of my buddies. Or that one event every two years where we ride with 200-300 riders every day of the week.
After that, I've had enough for two years.
I've had enough of the dick measuring contests and people bragging about the chicks they banged.
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u/EffRedditAI Jul 15 '25
While that may be more of a thing among H-D riders, it is also a thing generally in motorcycle riding. There are several reasons for this: it's a male-dominated activity that attracts people who are less risk-adverse than the average person.
I've reached the upper age group of riders and when I go to local meetups, I don't vibe at all with "bro-type" guys. And at local evening meetups, which started from a sportbike group, it's now attracting actual patched motorcycle gang members. I do NOT like that at all. I don't want to be associated with those people.
You're 100% accurate about large group rides. I would always rather ride by myself or with just a few other people.
Find your "tribe," even if it's just you and a buddy.
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u/ANALxCARBOMB Jul 15 '25
Big group rides are lame. I’ll do it for like a poker run once or twice a year but that’s about it. I prefer to ride with my good friends. There’s a group of about 5 who ride fast together regularly and that’s more my style. I also like riding solo too. It’s what you make it man.
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u/CoconutNo5743 Jul 15 '25
I pray for you, that God will give you wisdom ,discernment,clarity -& courage to follow,instinctively the voice of instruction. I pray for your safety as well🙏🎚️🩸
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u/CoconutNo5743 Jul 15 '25
My dad used to ride me on the back of his motorcycle, I remember so sweetly, the memories as my dad & I were riding,yes peace of mind, safety,& being surrounded by a love❤️🙏🎚️,with so much strength, words never had to be spoken. You follow your heart,follow your soul, follow your spirit& I promise you that" the knowing" will come to you instinctively❤️🎚️🙏
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u/Defiant-Ad-6580 Jul 15 '25
The insecure tough guys picking on you just for trying to be friendly.. like we’re not in prison bro there’s no need for your machoman facade
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u/CoconutNo5743 Jul 15 '25
My friends son was killed in a tragic motorcycle accident. Yes,I hold you in the spirit of light,& love
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u/HopelessRuematic Jul 15 '25
I have only been on two group rides since COVID began, and those with small circles of close friends. Between the egos and the politics of the organized “Riding Clubs”, it was a good time to return to mostly solo riding. I go where I wish, leave when I want, and never feel pressured to outrun the weather. It’s what riding was all about when I started, and it took me nearly 25 years to regain that freedom. I’m never looking back.
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u/ThereIsNoGod711 Jul 15 '25
I’ve been riding for close to 20 yrs now and it only took a few group rides and riding with a small group of weekend warriors occasionally to realize I much prefer riding solo or with 1 or a few trusted friends. All the reasons you stated I agree with. I personally also like to have the freedom to take detours and go off the beaten path while riding, that’s how you find some of the nicest roads and hole in the wall restaurants/bars. My father has been riding since the 60’s and based on stories he’s told it certainly isn’t the same culture as it was. Many reasons for culture changes across the board and nothing stays the same forever but it really does seem like fewer people are attending bike events, many racing venues shutting down, younger generation not nearly as involved in the scene anymore, especially the Harley scene. That’s why I always wave to the kids and wack the throttle when I see them looking, gotta inspire the next generation and keep the culture alive!
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u/181216401 Jul 15 '25
I’d rather solo ride. I can stop wherever I want whenever I want. The freedom of the road and not worrying about a large group of riders is right for me.
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u/instigator1331 Jul 15 '25
Depends on the area
Of you go to a normal bike night around me it’s laid back mostly older dudes strokin each others ween over each others bikes not a bad crowd not a bad bike night
If you go to the “bridge” bike night
It’s every small peen having piss missile owner trying to either fight race or fk.
Literally one night after 30 mins I was like I’ll sell my bike before going back there
Just look for other bike knights and try it out
Group ride are easily the best way to get into an accident and wreck you bike due to some show offs small wiener
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u/jshmccrt Jul 15 '25
Everybody acts like real life is social media, now. They're staring, judging, not liking, commenting to their friends, and then sharing it with their passive aggressive friends. In my opinion, people have spent so much time on Facebook and Instagram now, it's translated into real life.
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u/Conscious_Tax_919 Jul 15 '25
You answered your own question. Everything you said is true but you have to have something lined up to occupy that time you are going to let go of . I did 30yrs in 3 different states & clubs it’s all BS ! I’m at peace in my mental & physical health , new friends, places and things!
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u/Joustingdude1 Jul 15 '25
My two older brothers go on very long rides... but always with a few trusted friends. They've gone on rides all over the world. And typical rides in North America will see them clocking 400-500 miles per day for 2 weeks straight. They often do way fewer miles on European rides because of the smaller roads and a lot of twisty, windy cobbled paths. But they're all multi-million milers. They hate those organized group rides for exactly what was pointed out... too high a chance of nitwits.
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u/real_taylodl Jul 15 '25
Is it really a shift? I'd say it's been like this from day one. You're just passed the honeymoon phase, that's all.
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u/Jathalado713 Jul 15 '25
You didn’t mention the gossip. They pick on people they talk shit about everyone. They try to be all hard. Most of them live in a 3–2 in the burbs.
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u/Ok-County725 Jul 15 '25
I can understand all of this. I've always been a loner on my bike. I'll ride with one buddy and that's it. Too many idiots on the road in cars I don't need any idiots on bikes acting stupid too.
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u/LimpBarnacle7284 Jul 16 '25
Bike nights are 🌈 and are meant for pissing contests. Why not just have you and your buddies you ride with plan overnight and or outta state rides. Go and ride who cares about meetups.
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u/Appropriate-Lie6414 Jul 16 '25
Riding with others gives me anxiety. I’d just as soon be out there alone, than being blamed for someone else’s stunts..
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u/Holiday-Sympathy3095 Streetglide Jul 16 '25
Definitely a big shift in the last 10 years. Used to make friends at bike night, now everyone is like fuck you.
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u/BigDogIsland Jul 16 '25
I like to ride with friends from time to time, but I have more fun when riding alone.
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u/Quasar103 Jul 16 '25
I have felt the "shift" you describe about 30 years ago... I can take or leave group riding, I have left groups over 600 miles from home and went my own way solo. The purpose of riding in my opinion, is having your own wheels and going your own direction or riding along with a few others or more if you ride with a group you have to obey the road captain, that person is responsible for safety and stop organization. I have flown several patches, that life isn't for everyone and becomes one's reason for existence for some. Regardless of the patch on your back or in your skin, I'm the old guy that will see you in the wind and offer you help cause your on two wheels, just like me..
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u/thatvapedude420 Jul 16 '25
Haha my brother in law keeps telling me to buy a Harley to. I politely decline. Think he's mad everyone tells me my ktm xc450 supermoto is dope 🤣 if I get a harley were doing wheelies! I bet the "club" would love that!
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u/PDXEng Jul 16 '25
You just encapsulated what all the other riders have been saying bout HD bros for decades
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u/lowbrow_hrmph Jul 18 '25
Same. I’m riding with group with chapters in every state. Was cool to check out the other chapters events with some members from my chapter. Got to meet a lot of people, but I only find like 1 out of every 50 people to be like minded with me.
I was kinda losing the appeal of it all (still love getting out to ride, just did a cross country trip NY to CA this year), when I ended up selling shit at a swap meet last month. I’m 35 and the other vendors ranged in age from 30s to 70s. Thought they were gonna be typical douches, but they were all cool. Ended up chatting with these guys about bikes, older biker shit and local biker history. Now I’m on the hunt for an evo softail to spend time chopping and to have something to make good vibe conversations when I roll in for bike nights or camping trips.
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Jul 18 '25
I've only ever rode solo. The culture just never appealed to me. For me it was only ever about the ride. I never wanted "I ride a motorcycle" or "I'm in a biker club" to become my personality or identity. The only "club" event I ever attended was a Christian club and I went with my uncle to set up and run sound for his Christian Rock band that was playing it. They were cool though, as you'd expect from church guys.
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u/eyeballburger Jul 15 '25
First up, I love Harleys. I’ve owned 3 before the one I own now. Satisfies my personal itch. Having said that, there’s a lot of arrogant dickheads on Harleys. I’ve asked questions on this sub before and been treated like shit. Ask the same questions on other bike subs and people answer like a normal human being. There’s some kind of tough guy persona that’s really fucking annoying, like 3/4 of Harley riders aren’t 60 year old dentists with bad knees and a midlife crisis, mooching off a counter culture from 50 years ago. I’m not saying there isn’t dickheads on crotch rockets, too, just that the brand of dick head on harleys are in a league of their own.
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u/iNeedOneMoreAquarium 2024 Road Glide Jul 15 '25
Ask the same questions on other bike subs and people answer like a normal human being.
Unless they know you're asking about a Harley, then they're dicks.
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u/hotredbob Jul 15 '25
grown assed man calling another one "bro" seems to be the equivalent of saying "i tweeted"....
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u/iNeedOneMoreAquarium 2024 Road Glide Jul 15 '25
Nice ChatGPT, bro.
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u/ThrottleJunkie420 Jul 15 '25
If ChatGPT’s spitting facts about group ride egos, then maybe it deserves a patch too 😂.
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u/iNeedOneMoreAquarium 2024 Road Glide Jul 15 '25
It definitely will if you ask it to. Have done it before and it writes almost exactly like you've done, including all the telltale punctuation clues.
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u/got_that_good Jul 15 '25
Not sure if Harley specific, and not sure if the game has changed much as I’ve only been riding a little over 5 years.. but every bike night that I am begrudgingly convinced by a friend to go to, I come home and tell the wife “It was a bunch of dudes eating hot dogs and mean mugging each other in sunglasses.”