Harley Davidson Community

To begin, riding Harley Davidson motorcycles is a community that is known nationally and around the world.

What makes this gorup a community, one would have to ask is that though they may come from different walks of life-social classes, work enviroments, race or nationality, etc. several characteristics remains the same about this group. They love their motorcycles, freedom of having the natural elements flow across their bodies, and the commonality of having a free spirit. One thing that is profoundly noticeable about most people who ride motorcycles is that as they pass each other or if they are in a location where other bikers are they will usually migrate towards each other. The glue is the motorcycle that holds these groups together.

The majority of interests for these individuals is the fact that there is freedom behind the ferrin or the handle bars. I've often been told that there isn't anything better then being seated on your bike without being confined to the inside of a vehicle. They like the fact that they can see all around them. Most people who ride their Harley's are looking for a way to escape the stress and daily pressures that life throws at them and this is one way to release some of that pressure. Spending an hour on a leisurely ride with no worries is a commonality most riders will express. They can leave it behind for a few hours to a few days. There is no need to talk and visit, just to ride- that is where the value of this community lies. Tho, there is a line of unspoken communication of respect and understanding between them. They don't need to be stimulated with verbal communication to feel that they are of worth or value. They all ready know it.

I think that there can be a few differences within a community of this sort. An insight into that more would be because of the different members that form groups that identify what their beliefs are or what they stand for. I would assume that in the circle of Harley Davidson groups that if one rider was to enter into a group and clearly come from a negative group there's going to be conflict. If you're not a good fit within that community there will most likely be negative dialogue to start utnil someone can come forward with some clear understanding and patience so things wouldn't excalate. There are some good and some not so good groups and discretion is usually the key one finding which Harley Davidson group you want to participate in. For the general public, the 'outside' community that doesn't understand the Harley Davidson community will typically stereotype this group as being rough riders, unemployed, trouble makers, pot heads, on and on the list can go. I won't say that some do or don't, but the community uses that measure and gauge to label them out of fear or ignorance. I don't believe that there is tension within the community, I think the majority comes from the outside.

I belong to an affiliation of Harley Riders at a local church I attend. What makes me want to be a part of this community is that fact that they believe in Jesus and are not bashful in proclaiming their faith. And, in that, we particpate in facilitating charitable events such as Poker Runs, fundraisers and outreaches to meet a need that may need to be met, fellowship with other riders (believers or not), and educating the public what it is we do and encourage conversation and dialogue. I enjoy the community I belong to and though this is not the only one, I would go on to say that is one of my higher priorities of belonging to a community and making that commitment to others in the group.