Do you feel a little bored riding alone? Don't have any riding buddies around you to ride with? Then motorcycle riding clubs are a great way to go about making riding friends, not only that, joining a riding club can also enrich your riding experience. So how can you find the right riding club? This guide will help you find a club near you that suits your riding style and needs.
Why Join a Motorcycle Club?
- Community and camaraderie - meet people who enjoy riding as much as you do.
- Group rides and events - participate in well-organized group motorcycle events.
- Skill development - learn riding skills from experienced riders.
- Safety and support - Ride in a safety-prepared riding environment.
- Charity and Social Involvement - Regular charity rides and community service.
Define Your Riding Interests and Goals
Before joining a riding club, first define your riding style and needs:
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Riding Style: Do you prefer city riding, outdoor riding or off-road riding?
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Bike Preferences: Do you have a specific type of motorcycle? Do you have a specific favorite brand of motorcycle? (Some clubs require specific motorcycles)
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Socializing: Do you prefer group rides or competition rides?
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Ride Time: Are you able to ride on a club's designated ride schedule?
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Age Groups: Are you looking for a club with members of a similar age group to better connect with?
How Do You Find a Motorcycle Club Near You?
3.1 Google Search and Maps
Use search terms like “motorcycle riding clubs near me” or “motorcycle meets in [your city]”.
View local motorcycle groups and dealerships hosting rides on Google Maps.3.2 Social Media Groups
Facebook: Numerous motorcycle groups to join for sharing experiences, asking questions, and organizing rides. Ideal for Harley owners, maintenance tips or general riding discussions.
Instagram: discover riding clubs and motorcycle organizations and follow their activities and events through hashtags such as #MotorcycleCommunity, #BikerLife, and more.
X (formerly Twitter): Follow motorcycle industry experts, magazines and riding groups, participate in discussions and get real-time information using hashtags like #MotorcycleGroup, #RideTogether and more.
Online forums: Motorcycle.com, ADVrider, HDForums, and other forums provide discussion, advice, and local riding information, making it easy to find riding groups and events.
Meetup and Club Directory
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Meetup.com - Search for local motorcycle meetups.
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American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) - Find registered riding clubs.
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Manufacturer clubs, such as Harley Owners Club (H.O.G.), BMW MOA or Ducati Owners Club, often list affiliated clubs.
Finding Clubs Offline
If an online search yields no results, try the following offline methods:
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Visit local dealerships and repair stores: many motorcycle dealers sponsor clubs or hold regular group rides. Check their event bulletin boards or ask the staff for advice.
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Attend local motorcycle events and rallies : Events such as bike nights, charity rides and motorcycle rallies attract club members looking for new riders.
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Visit popular motorcycle hangouts : Many riders gather at specific coffee shops, eateries or scenic stops. Start a conversation and ask about the club they belong to.
Tips for Success in Motorcycle Group Riding
Pre-Ride Preparation: Before starting a group ride, make sure you and your motorcycle are ready, check your motorcycle equipment and your riding gear.
Formation and Spacing: It is recommended that staggered formation is usually used, with each rider keeping a safe distance from the rider in front of them as they ride on the other side of the lane.
Smooth Riding: Keep your riding habits consistent, avoid sudden acceleration, braking or lane changes, and use turn signals early and clearly to communicate your intentions.
Signals: Establish a set of communication signals or use standard hand signals to alert the group of an impending turn, hazard or stop.
Obey traffic laws and local regulations: Obeying traffic laws and local regulations is critical to the safety of everyone on the ride.
For more, read “How to Ride Safely in the City.”
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I find a motorcycle club if i don't use social media?
While social media is a powerful tool, you can also browse local bike forums, attend bike shows, or visit a nearby bike store to gather information about clubs.
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Is there an age limit to join a motorcycle club?
Age limits vary from club to club. Some clubs may have a minimum age requirement while others specialize in mature riders. It is best to check with individual clubs to find the right one.
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What if I don't have a motorcycle yet?
Many clubs welcome prospective members who are interested in learning to ride or purchasing a bike. However, some clubs may require you to own a motorcycle before joining. However, some clubs may require you to own a motorcycle before joining.
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What can I contribute to the club by joining?
Active participation is key! Attend rides, offer to help with club events, and share your skills or resources. Your engagement will strengthen the club and make your experience more fulfilling. Your engagement will strengthen the club and make your experience more fulfilling.
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Can I join more than one motorcycle club?
While it’s possible to join multiple clubs, it’s important to consider your time and commitment. Focus on finding a primary club that aligns with your interests and goals, and then explore other clubs as time permits.
