Joining

What does it mean to be a member of a motorcycle club, MC, such as Iron Thunder New Zealand?

Are you a biker looking for a community that shares your passion for two wheels? Joining a motorcycle club can be a thrilling journey, offering camaraderie, adventure, and a sense of belonging. However, finding the right club requires more than just stumbling upon one. It requires some thought and investigation before your will find a group of fellow bikers who you connect with.

Here we’ll walk you through the process on how to go about deciding whether a MC is for you and to find the one where you will feel at home.

Firstly, though some information about the stages of joining a MC

It can take years of waiting before you become a full patch member. And there is no guarantee that you’ll ever become one.

Hang Around: This is someone who “hangs around” the club, attends rides and club events but does not take part in the running of the club. A hang around has no right to wear any of the club regalia including the club’s back set or patch. At this stage, you are on your own, if anything happens to you the club is not responsible for you.

Prospect / Probationary: After having hung around the club for a period of time you may choose to express an interest in joining, or the club may invite you to join. If the full members of the club agree then you become a Prospect or Probationary Member of the Club. You can then ride with the club as a member wearing, generally, part of the clubs set, attend meetings and carry out business. You are now a member, albeit junior one, of the club.

Full Member: After having been a prospect or probationary for a period of time the existing full members of the club will hold a vote to determine whether you can become a full member of the club or will be made to leave the club. Full members of the club generally get to vote on matters affecting the club including bringing on prospect/probationary members and making the same up to full. They can also wear the club’s full set.

Understanding Your Preferences

Before embarking on your quest to find yourself a motorcycle club, take some time to reflect on your preferences and priorities. Consider the following factors:

• Riding Style: Are you drawn to long-distance touring, off-road adventures, or spirited rides through winding mountain roads?
• Club Size: Do you envision yourself as part of a large, established club with a structured hierarchy, or do you prefer a smaller, more intimate group of riders?
• Values and Culture: What core values are important to you? Are you seeking a club with a laid-back atmosphere, or do you thrive in a more disciplined riding environment?
• Community Involvement: Are you interested in joining a club that actively participates in charity rides, community events, and motorcycle advocacy efforts?
• Club Type: It is important to consider the ‘type’ of club you want to join. Do you want to be a ‘one percenter’ and join a so-called outlaw motorcycle club or are you wanting to become part of a social motorcycle club (sometimes called a SMC)? Do you want to wear a back patch, or not – 1% clubs (“gangs” to many) are invariably backpatch clubs, social motorcycle clubs such as Iron Thunder New Zealand that wear a backpatch are sometimes called NGBP (“non-gang” back patch) clubs. Most social clubs do not wear a back patch.

Understanding your preferences will serve as a compass, guiding you towards clubs that align with your interests and values.

Researching Clubs in Your Area

Armed with a clear understanding of your preferences, it’s time to delve into the world of motorcycle clubs in your area. Here are some strategies for conducting effective research:

• Online Resources: Utilise online platforms such as social media (e.g. upcoming rides), motorcycle forums, and club directories to identify clubs in your vicinity. Explore club websites and social media pages to gain insights into their activities, membership requirements, and club culture.
• Word of Mouth: Reach out to fellow riders in your network and ask for recommendations or insights about local motorcycle clubs. Personal recommendations can provide valuable firsthand experiences and perspectives.
• Attend Events, Rides and Meetings: Take advantage of club events, bike nights, and meetings to immerse yourself in the club’s culture and interact with its members. These opportunities allow you to gauge the club’s atmosphere and assess its compatibility with your preferences.

Making a Lasting Impression

Once you’ve identified prospective clubs, it’s time to initiate contact and make a positive impression. Here are some tips for making the most of your interactions:

• Express Genuine Interest: Approach club members with sincerity and genuine interest in learning more about their club. Ask thoughtful questions about the club’s history, activities, and membership process to demonstrate your enthusiasm.
• Be Respectful and Courteous: Treat club members with respect and courtesy at all times. Remember that you are a guest in their community, and your conduct reflects upon you as a prospective member.
• Participate Actively: Show your commitment to the club by actively participating in events, rides, and meetings. Volunteering to assist with club activities demonstrates your willingness to contribute and integrate into the club’s community.
• Follow Protocols: Respect the club’s protocols and procedures for prospective members. Be prepared to adhere to any requirements or expectations set forth by the club during the prospecting process.

Navigating the Hang Around Period

Many motorcycle clubs have a hang around period during which prospective members are evaluated for compatibility and commitment. Here are some strategies for navigating the hang around period successfully:

• Demonstrate Commitment: Consistently attend club events, rides, and meetings to demonstrate your commitment to the club. Your active participation reinforces your genuine interest in becoming a part of the club’s community.
• Build Relationships: Take the time to build meaningful relationships with club members. Engage in conversations, share your riding experiences, and express your enthusiasm for joining the club. Building rapport with existing members can enhance your prospects of being accepted into the club.
• Respect the Club’s Culture: Familiarise yourself with the club’s culture, values, and traditions. Respect the club’s code of conduct and conduct yourself with integrity and respect at all times.
• Seek Feedback: Don’t hesitate to seek feedback from club members and officers during the prospecting period. Constructive feedback can help you identify areas for improvement and demonstrate your willingness to learn and grow as a prospective member.

REMEMBER: You are thinking of asking to be accepted into their club so you need to make the effort. 

Making an Informed Decision

After completing the hang around process, take some time to reflect on your experiences and assess whether the club is the right fit for you. Consider factors such as:

• Compatibility: Evaluate your compatibility with the club’s culture, values, and riding style. Do you feel a sense of camaraderie and connection with the club’s members?
• Engagement: Reflect on your level of engagement and involvement during the hang around period. Did you enjoy participating in club activities and events?
• Long-Term Commitment: Consider whether you are prepared to make a long-term commitment to the club. Joining a motorcycle club is not just about riding together; it’s about building lasting friendships and contributing to the club’s community.
• Trust Your Instincts: Trust your instincts and intuition when making a decision about joining a club. If something feels off or doesn’t align with your values, it’s okay to explore other options.

Prospecting for a motorcycle club is a rewarding journey that requires patience, dedication, and an open mind. By understanding your preferences, conducting thorough research, making a positive impression, navigating the hang around period, and making an informed decision, you can find the perfect motorcycle club that enriches your riding experience and fosters lifelong friendships.

REMEMBER: Joining a motorcycle club is not just about finding a group of riders to share the road with; it’s about finding a community that shares your passion, values, and camaraderie. So rev up your engines, hit the road, and embark on the adventure of a lifetime as you search for your perfect riding tribe.

If you are interested in becoming a member of Iron Thunder New Zealand reach out to any member or contact us via email HERE.

The ITMC-NZ Constitution is available HERE