FROM THE PUBLISHER
I might still be thawing out from Thunder on the Strip; but as always, Geneva-on-the-Lake once again hosted one of the best rallies of the year. Was the weather great – nope, it was the worst I’ve seen in 15 years. Cold, windy – it did everything but snow. And of course, perfect riding weekends on either side. It was pretty frustrating for everyone there – especially the vendors and others dependent on the crowds.
However, as one vendor commented “Even though the weather was rough, there were still a lot of people – and they were all having fun.” He went on to say, “Everyone said how great the crowds normally are out here –and they are here at the rally, just not out and about.” He then went on and put his deposit down for 2025. Because even though it was a rough weekend to ride – it was still a great time and the people were all ready to give it a go next year.
Like most motorcycle events, it’s the community and sense of brotherhood that makes Geneva such an amazing rally. Even with the most hard-core riding rallies – such as the MSTA Fly By Rally (see pages 16-17) – it’s the celebration of the ride afterwards that is the highlight for many. The chance to catch up and trade stories with folks having a similar passion and love of the road. In many cases – whether it’s Geneva-on-the-Lake, Marrietta OH, or Sturgis SD – you know that you share a bond with everyone there. Regardless of race, background, profession, or even gender in many cases
– we’re all brothers and sisters, and the other stuff is just window dressing.
Serving our community and sharing that message is what we do. We help support local businesses and organizations by introducing them to our family of riders. They in turn help support the magazines and share our message. Larger corporate sponsors, such as Progressive and Erskine Law, allow us the ability to print the magazines and distribute them free of charge. It’s a business and it supports our families, but nobody is getting “rich” living this life – at least not in monetary terms.
We are, however, blessed by the ability to meet new riders almost every week and at every event. New folks join the Bike Show Series, come out and share their ink, or just join us at an event – or even just online – and they discover that we truly do have a family in every sense of the word.
Like every family – and seemingly especially these days – we go through rough times and face our share of challenges. Just as new folks discover what it means to be a part of the RTR Family / riding community and join the ride – we do lose brothers and sisters to the road and to life in general. This year seemed particularly rough as we lost a number of folks close to our hearts. With a family this big, it’s going to happen. But as with all challenges, we must endure for the sake of the others with us.
So, as we wrap up this riding season and reflect on the rallies and rides this past year – we are left considering our new brothers / sisters and those we have lost.
We need to celebrate the times we’ve had, the miles we spent with those that we have lost and the laughs we’ve shared along the way. We need to look forward to the times ahead and make sure we celebrate every day.
For as cold as Geneva-on-the-Lake was, there were still some amazing bikes in the show. Did you see the ’28 Harley? And the tattoo party was an intimate affair inside Game On, we all walked away with new friends there. And of course, we started each day at the Sunrise Café – with a laugh and a smile, as well as a few new friends.
Thank you all for your support this past year. For those I’ve had the privilege of sharing the road with – THANK YOU. For those that have supported us from afar – THANK YOU. And for those that haven’t had a chance to come out and join us at an event or even just say hi online – what’s holding you back?
There are a lot of exciting roads ahead of us – and it’s even better with family.
See you out there!
Sincerely,
D. A. Smith Publisher, Reasons To Ride
Smith
UPCOMING VETERANS EDITION!
Don’t miss out on your chance to connect with or recognize Vets within the riding community.
BECOME A LOCAL ROAD REP
Once again, we will be dedicating an entire edition to Veterans, to coincide with the Veterans Day holiday.
As in years past, this edition will be focused on recognizing local and regional Veterans Service Organizations – as well as programs, benefits, opportunities, and EVENTS focused on those that have served and their families.
This is also a great chance to promote Veteran’s Day Events or offers that you have for vets – or to recognize and honor a VET that YOU KNOW. Or simply a GREAT chance to say THANK YOU for those that have sacrificed for our nation.
We want this issue to be both a TRIBUTE and a RESOURCE to those that have served and their families. It’s our goal to get as much practical information together as possible for this edition and put it in the hands of those that can use it.
It’s our intention to get these magazines out to as many VFW’s, American Legion’s, VA Centers, and other Veteran’s organizations as we can.
If you’d like to put something in our Veteran’s Edition – which is scheduled to come out in late October; please get in touch with us as soon as possible. Email us at Info@ReasonsToRide.com
If you’re a rider that’s active in your local riding community, we’d invite you to consider becoming a Local Road Rep for Reasons To Ride. This is NOT meant to be a sales position or full time job for anyone – but is a chance to help promote local events and businesses, while making a “few dollars” to support your riding habit!
Like most things, you get what you put out of it – but it’s meant to be a fun gig for riding enthusiasts. If you’re really active and cover a larger area, you can make good money – but that takes time and a commitment. The real payoff is to have a good time as the person to see about getting events or even just a picture in the “local biker mag”.
We aren’t looking for guys wanting to be “part-time bad guys” or any nonsense like that, we’re looking for reliable good folks that want to help support others in the community. The ideal folks might be active supporters of a local charity, and are looking to expand their activities while getting more exposure for their own ride.
We can handle the sales aspects of the area, but we will look to you for pictures of local events and updates as to what’s coming up. And you’ll be able to make some money doing what you’re most likely already doing.
We’re asking for a minimum time commitment of 8-10 hours a month. It helps if you have a laptop and a camera – although a smartphone can usually do it. You’ll get some cool swag, access to rallies and other events, and a chance to help a lot of local folks. As our coverage and presence in the area increases, you are able to share in the revenue generated. It’s a pretty proven business plan – it’s what built this entire organization. We think it’s a pretty good deal – for the right folks.
If any of this sounds interesting to you, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We will be scheduling “Intro Video Seminars” over the next few months to help explain how it all works. And now is the time to jump in, as we prepare for the change in season and begin looking to next year.
So don’t delay – send us an email and tell us a little bit about yourself! Info@ReasonsToRide.com
NOW BOOKING FOR 2025 TAG YOUR PHOTOS!
Even if you’re not out riding now, you can still share photos and tag them for our Ride n Win challenge.
Just post up your favorite ride photos on Facebook or Instagram with the hashtag #ReasonsToRide and tell us a little bit about the ride or stop. If we share your photos – you might just score some swag, possibly even an “Official Photographer” shirt! And you’ll be entered into the monthly prize drawings! From there you can possibly even win a new bike, concert tickets, and other cool prizes!
MOTORCYCLE MINISTRIES
MARY GILBERT, CMA STATE COORDINATOR
Rock-tober!
What a great year this has been! Just wound down September with Thunder on the Strip, ABATE Region 3 Toy Run and our own Ohio CMA State Rally and now can call the season complete with a trip to Arkansas for the final big Rally of the Year!
We look forward to seeing you again in the coming season and at the many Swap Meets coming in the local areas over the cooler months of Ohio. Lima, Springfield, Columbus, Dayton…somewhere there is always a place to meet! And what a joy it has been to meet so many new people this year! Everywhere we went we found new friends and so many just wanting to stop and chat awhile. That’s really what ministry is all about…new faces, new places and finding the one common ground we can step into that brings about a cool relationship and a fond memory. Please don’t ever feel you need to avoid the booth or the blessing. Come on over and grab a free coffee or water and share the moment with us. All are welcome to stop by.
Speaking of stopping by…it was nice to meet so many people from other MM’s this season. While we may not all roll the same, we all have the same goal in mind which is to help others find freedom. Freedom from what??
Fear, anxiety, depression, addiction, the weight of life, pain and
sorrow, and any other thing that besets you. No judgments. No condemnations. Just freedom. We all have had some kind of something in our lifetime that we have hidden deep inside or just shoved aside so we can get on with life. It’s okay…but it’s way better to let it go and find peace through it all. And that is why we are here when you need us. Pretty simple really.
The love of Jesus is what motivates us to serve in most any capacity we can serve in. Jesus said, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve and give His life a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45
So, who would we be to place ourselves higher than He by not serving in some way to make your day a better one? You see, we are not out to bang the Bible over your head and make you feel like you are not good enough or force you into a commitment that you may not desire or be ready for. No, we are here to let you know that Jesus lived for you, died for you, arose from that grave for you and still lives on in those that receive Him as Lord and Savior. It’s a choice only we ourselves can make as individuals. Sin is sin and there isn’t any science to it. There’s no middle ground, there’s no getting around it…sin came in and deceived and it still does. There was a choice way back in the garden and there’s a choice right here and now. But oh how wonderful it is when the choice to follow Jesus is made and the freedom to live and not die comes and overwhelms your soul with that perfect love of Jesus. Unifying spirit and soul and bringing about a peace inside that cannot be described other than maybe, what might come close, is that still summer night, cruising down a country road with nothing but the full moon to guide you and the sound of your pipes echoing through the corn fields as you pass by…
I will leave you with that thought rolling around in your head and maybe it will touch your heart…Catch you in the wind…
Mary G.
COME RIDE WITH US!
CMA is a servant minded interdenominational motorcycle ministry with a non-denominational message of hope and love through Jesus Christ. Enjoy the family atmosphere, make life-long friends, and join an army of people dedicated to changing the world, one heart at a time in the highways and byways.
Visit us at www.cmausa.org for more information.
Have a message you’d like to share?
If you have a message that you’d like to share with riders across Ohio and the Midwest, let us know. Reasons To Ride welcomes the opportunity to work with established motorcycle ministries. Feel free to share upcoming events with us as well, by emailing information to Events@ReasonsToRide.com
Sport Touring Corner
By Norm Kern, MSTA Editor / ReasonsToRide.com Contributor
MSTA FlyBy Week 2024- August 19-25, Marietta, Ohio
FlyBy Week is the largest regional rally in the Motorcycle Sport Touring Association (MSTA) calendar, with about 180 attendees this year, though not everyone stayed the entire week.
The hills and mountains of southeast Ohio and West Virginia offer some of the most thrilling riding you can find anywhere east of the Rockies. The routes are almost entirely through rural countryside. With few exceptions on a handful of routes, the towns you encounter are very small.
There were 27 road routes and another 11 ADV routes, fanning out in all directions, each with detailed descriptions ready for downloading onto your GPS from the event website. Some featured destinations such as the Big Muskie, the New River Bridge and gorge, a ferryboat crossing of the Ohio River and covered bridges – to name just a few. Choosing which route to ride each day was based upon its length, attractions, riding ease or difficulty and direction from Marietta (in case of localized inclement weather).
With so many routes available, one could ride a different one each day for over a month without doing the same route twice.
The Marietta Comfort Inn and Suites was the host hotel once again. And this year, the Fairfield Inn immediately next door was added as an overflow option. For campers there were two options available.
After a fun day of riding, what could be better than a delicious meal at a nice restaurant, and downtown Marietta has some really nice ones. Norm arranged for passenger vans to transport attendees downtown and back on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday.
On top of all that, there are other aspects of Marietta which make it unique and interesting. For example, there’s just something really relaxing and magical about being next to the storied Ohio River. Unlike some, this river is wide, unhurried and not at all muddy. And watching barges being slowly and masterfully pushed upriver or down is just sort of spellbinding. Marietta is one of the oldest towns west of the Appalachians and has some really nice old homes. Then there’s the Mound Cemetery which includes at its center a prehistoric Adena burial mound – 47 steps, I believe it is, to the top. Many who fought in our War of Independence later lived in Marietta and are interred in that cemetery.
This year, morning and late evening temperatures in Marietta were in the 50’s and 60’s. Mesh with a jacket rain liner was needed in the morning until maybe 10 o’clock or so. A light jacket or long-sleeved shirt worked great for late evening socializing outdoors. The first part of the week never got into the 80’s. Then by Friday and Saturday, it was in the low 90’s in the afternoon.
The Outdoor Lounge behind the hotel opened on Wednesday. It's a fun and convenient place to dine and hang out
and includes a nice patio with comfortable chairs and sofas. There was supposed to be a food truck in the parking lot of the hotel Wednesday, Friday and Saturday but the owners had an emergency and had to cancel. Fortunately there is a Wings Etc sports bar and an IHOP right across the street plus plenty of pizza and food places with delivery options.
Hopefully the food truck will return next year, but by then the new Texas Roadhouse restaurant will be open, which is located less than 500 feet away from the hotel.
Jeremy Riffle had the bike wash set up on Monday and it was very popular all week with three nice shaded bike wash stalls. Jeremy even gave out micro fiber towels in a nice zippered pouch as gifts for everyone.
To Sum Up
This was one of the best FlyBy Weeks ever! Next year's event will be held from August 18-24, 2025, once again at the Comfort Suites Marietta hotel. The new flybyweek.com website will go live and registration will open on January 1. We would like to thank all who attended and we look forward to seeing everyone again next year!
Connect with local Ohio Motorcycle Sport Touring Association riders at these monthly breakfasts:
Southwest Ohio Breakfast, 9AM, Oct 19th Village Family Restaurant 144 S. Main St. Waynesville, OH 45068
Central Ohio Breakfast Meet - 8AM Nov 3rd Portside Cafe 6515 S High St Lockbourne, OH 43137
Backroads of Appalachia! - Enjoy the fall colors
Fall in Central Appalachia
Spring sprung, Summer came and went, and now we have come to our favorite time of the year to Ride here in Central Appalachia! Fall has arrived and our leaves are changing colors daily and as the temperature cools down we are gearing up here at the WCMG for the last month of our season and it is going to be unforgettable! We are known here in Appalachia for our stunning fall colors as our mountains begin to display every shade imaginable over the next month and we get all of it we can before they are gone! Our fall foliage typically peaks in mid-to-late October and so does our regular season schedule as riders come to join us here again this year from all over the globe! Last month we told you about some of our favorite overlooks here on the Backroads of Appalachia and which of our Trail Routes, you can find them on but if you really want to experience the Autumn Colors here all you have to do is attend any of our Events in October!
We kick off October each year with our “Ride for the Cure” Event for Breast Cancer with our Partners at Wildcat Harley Davidson in London KY. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and our whole group rides with our WCMG Lady Riders to raise awareness and take donations for the National Breast Cancer Foundation. We have several Breast Cancer Survivors in our Lady Riders Group and this is a very important event for us each year and all are invited to attend our events as usual! Cars, Bikes, Slingshots, and Jeeps! In Mid-October we host our first of two annual “Fall Leaves” events and each is designed to show you the absolute best colors Kentucky and Tennessee have to offer! All brought to you by the
Riders of our Region who know where to find these overlooks and colors better than anyone!
October 5th - WCMG Lady Riders Ride For the Cure - This event kicks off our October schedule each season and also showcases our early color changes as we “Ride for the Cure” for the National Breast Cancer Foundation with our Lady Riders and Breast Cancer Survivors.
October 12-13th - Our second annual Mountain Mainstreet Invasion is our “Fall Leaves” ride here in Kentucky and this year we are doing it with our partners at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park! The most visited state park in Kentucky and for good reason! Also one of our top spots to see our Fall Colors! On Day 2 we have a Poker Run to Red River Gorge with our partners at Lee County Tourism and the Beattyville Hillbillies from Discovery’s Moonshiners! See the pattern here?
October 17-20th - BOA LIVE! Presents Biketoberfest with Bikers Info USA! No fall colors here but wanted to throw that in. Come and see us and our partners at the Legendary Boot Hill Outpost and Sign our “BOA MOBILE WALL OF FAME”! We will have “Crazy Chuck” and Friends from Discovery’s Moonshiners and our annual “Traveling Hogs Beauty Contest’! This is our Last Rally of the 2024 Season!
Now let’s have mother nature do the talking like we do on our fall colors rides! Here is our Fall/Autumn overview and when to expect those colors!
Timing:
October 26th-27th- Our fourth annual “Tennessee Fall Leaves Ride” for St Judes with our partners at the Dragon City Motorcycle Resort! This event starts in Kentucky, and we ride over 250 miles the first day through our mountains to the North end of the Tail! This is our last event of our season each year and one of our best! This event and ride showcase both Kentucky and Tennessee’s incredible Fall Colors at their peak and in the right places! It's all for a good cause and we have a great big end of season Halloween Party with our Partners at the Dragoncity Motorcycle Resort! This includes a bonfire and a costume contest!
• Eastern Kentucky: Fall colors generally peak earlier, around mid-October.
• Eastern Tennessee: Colors tend to peak later in late October or early November.
Foliage Colors and Trees:
• Red: Maple, Dogwood, Oak
• Yellow: Hickory, Birch, Beech
• Orange: Sugar Maple, Sassafras
• Gold/Bronze: Oak, Hickory
Whether you're using our Backroads of Appalachia Mobile Application to come and experience this incredible season transition, or you decide to come and ride with us for the full effect, you simply cannot go wrong and what you will experience riding here in the Fall you will never forget! There is nothing out there that even comes close to what we have right here in KY, TN, WV, and VA!! So what are you waiting for? Find these events right now by visiting our website at www.backroadsofappalchia.org/events. You can also find them in the Calendar in our Mobile Application! What are you waiting for? Come ride with us in October and let us show you what we already know..
Best Riding and Fall Colors in the U.S! Period!
Jay Fryman (Frydaddy) Founder, Whitley County Motorcycle Group Backroads of Appalachia Journalism Team
RtR CHAMPIONSHIP BIKE SHOW SERIES
PRESENTED BY ERSKINE LAW
OCTOBER 2024 REPORT
FINSIHING OUT 2024 AND COUNTING DOWN TO 2025
This has been one for the books. We’ve already hosted more than a dozen bike shows this summer, and we’re not done for the season. While most of the shows were repeat – with some in their 4th, 6th, and 9th – even 14th year; we did have a number of first year shows. For each of these new shows, though, we were blessed to have veteran exhibitors make the trip out to join us and help introduce our series to the new folks.
As we look towards 2025, we have begun reserving dates for next year’s shows. Priority will be given to those having already hosted a show – and then we will open things up to new venues and events. We encourage everyone to check in as soon as possible if you’re interested in hosting a show in 2025. Even if you’ve hosted before – dates obviously change and we need to get everyone down as soon as possible. So, please let us know your thoughts and what date(s) you’re looking at.
Please Note – We will be adding new states and are considering additional regional and national rallies for 2025. If you’d like to discuss bringing the Bike Show Series to your event – get in touch as soon as possible. BikeShowInfo@gmail.com
BIKE SHOW YEARBOOKS!
We are excited to announce that we will once again be creating a “Yearbook” upon the completion of the 2024 Bike Show series. It is our hope to have these produced and in-hand in time for the holiday season and Christmas. These books will be hardcover with full color pictures printed on high quality paper stock. It’s our goal to make these keepsakes that are worthy of showcasing the bikes featured inside.
The books will contain photos and recognition of some of the amazing bikes featured throughout the year at Bike Shows ranging from the WILD TURKEY FESTIVAL at the start of the year through to the Rochester Hills Bike Show. We will also include shots from other regional shows and events – and some of the bikes seen there.
If you’d like to have your bike featured in the yearbooks, we’d encourage you to let us know in advance. We will also be accepting pre-orders for the books through October. If you’d like to reserve a book or find out more information on getting your bike featured, you can email us at You can also reserve your 2024 Reasons To Ride Bike Show Series YEARBOOK at www.ReasonsToRide.com
UPCOMING SHOWS
We’re proud to present a diverse bike series with various locations and themes to our shows – making each one unique, yet all welcome all makes, models, and years. Our focus is on creating informal, fun shows that showcase builds and encourage others to participate.
Here are just a few of the upcoming shows on the schedule. Make sure that you check out our events listing on Facebook and follow the ones that are of interest to you. We will be posting new shows, updates and more details about the rallies as things are finalized. www.Facebook.com/ReasonsToRide Community volunteers are welcomed!
ROCHESTER HILLS CUSTOM & VINTAGE BIKE SHOW
SPECIAL CHARITY EVENT!
Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, Rochester Hills MI –Sunday, October 6th
Exhibitor Registration 11a-1p / Judging and Voting 1p-3p / Awards Ceremony to Follow
On Saturday, June 15th, an unimaginable act of violence struck a community park in Rochester Hills, Michigan, affecting families who were simply enjoying a day out. Nine victims, ranging in age from 4 to 78, suffered gunshot wounds, and countless others are still grappling with the trauma. These individuals were targeted randomly, and now it’s time for our community to come together and offer support.
Reasons To Ride and Erskine Law have joined forces to host a community bike show at the historic Van Hoosen Farm & Museum in Rochester Hills. With the backing of local businesses and partners, we’re inviting EVERYONE to join us for a fun-filled day at the park.
100% of the registration fees from the bike show, along with other event revenues, will go directly to a fund for the victims of the splash pad incident. Neither Reasons To Ride, Erskine Law, nor any of our sponsors will retain any funds from this event; everything will be donated in support of the victims.
All bikes—regardless of make, model, or year—are welcome to participate in this special event. Beyond supporting a great cause, the day promises to be memorable as we showcase bikes at this fantastic venue. In addition to the bike show, we’re working on adding extra activities and entertainment to ensure there’s something for the whole family!
For more information, please check-out, follow, and share our Facebook event.
If you’d like to help sponsor or be a part of this event, please email us at BikeShowInfo@gmail.com
RTR CHAMPIONSHIP BIKE SHOW SERIES
Detroit Autorama
Huntington Place (Formerly Cobo Center) Detroit, MI – Feb 28 – March 2, 2025
The Detroit Autorama, also known as America's Greatest Hot Rod Show, is a showcase of custom cars and hot rods –as well as motorcycles! It is part of the International Show Car Association (ISCA) schedule for the Summit Racing Equipment Show Car Series, which includes other prestigious show car events such as the Chicago World of Wheels and of course The I-X Piston Powered Auto-Rama (see below). The show features a selected group of 800 custom and restored vehicles from across the world and more than 140,000 spectators annually.
The show welcomes motorcycles and the ISCA Judges award trophies across a myriad of classes. To get your entry form to show your motorcycle – visit Autorama.com and select DETROIT – Vehicle Entry.
Stay tuned for more updates on this show – but DON’T WAIT to get your application in!
I-X Piston Powered Auto-Rama
Cleveland I-X Center, Cleveland OH – March 28-30, 2025
“If a Piston makes it go – it’s in the Show!”
It’s possibly the largest indoor custom vehicle show on the planet, and it undoubtedly has something for everyone –including motorcycles!
This a celebration for those with a love for motors and custom vehicles – off all makes, models, and years! And for more than 10 years, the folks from Reasons To Ride have helped host the Motorcycle Area. Over the years the area has changed location and has been scaled back some, but it’s still one of the biggest shows of the year with great cash prizes and trophies across more than 30 classes! It’s a judged show – with those services being provided by the I.S.C.A (International Sports Car Association), and every year they have brought in serious judges with plenty of two wheeled experience.
While many of the bikes are brought in by various clubs and organizations – such as Reasons To Ride – there are still plenty of spots available for those interested in submitting an application. The key, though, is to not wait. You can sign up now, by visiting the website – www.PistonPowerShow.com and selecting “Submit Your Vehicle”. Don’t wait until January or February to look into getting in the show. As in year’s past – most of the spots are assigned well before the holidays, so don’t delay!
Once again, Reasons To Ride will be presenting the PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD and the DUCK AWARD as part of the awards ceremony. The People’s Choice Award is given to the BEST IN SHOW MOTORCYCLE as selected by popular vote on Friday and Saturday of the show. The DUCK AWARD is given to the top scoring custom motorcycle being shown for the first time – at ANY show.
Any questions – email us at Info@ReasonsToRide.com
OTHER SHOW DATES TO MARK DOWN:
Mama Tried, Milwaukee, WI
February 22-23, 2025
Daytona Bike Week, Daytona FL
February 28 – March 9, 2025
Leesburg Bike Fest, Leesburg, FL
April 25-27, 2025
Vinton County Wild Turkey Festival, McArthur OH
May 1-4, 2025
OHIO BIKE WEEK, Sandusky, OH
May 23 – June 1, 2025
CMA National Rally, Altoona PA
June 18-22, 2025
Harley-Davidson Homecoming, Milwaukee, WI
July 11-15, 2025
Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, Sturgis SD
August 1-10, 2025
Thunder on the Strip, Geneva-on-the-Lake, OH
September 4-7, 2025
These dates are tentative and subject to change, but listed based upon past years schedules and posted dates.
In the world of tattoos, few styles are as deeply intertwined with their cultural roots as biker tattoos. For decades, these designs have been more than mere body art; they are symbols of rebellion, freedom, and identity. But how did this distinctive style come to be? Let’s take a ride through the history of biker tattoos, exploring their origins, evolution, and enduring significance.
The Birth of Biker Culture
To understand biker tattoos, we first need to explore the origins of biker culture itself. The mid-20th century saw the emergence of motorcycle clubs as a distinct subculture in America. After World War II, many veterans returned home with a taste for adventure and camaraderie. Motorcycles, particularly Harley-Davidsons, became symbols of freedom and rebellion. It was within these burgeoning motorcycle clubs that biker tattoos began to take shape.
Early Influences and Symbolism
The roots of biker tattoos can be traced back to earlier tattoo traditions. The art of tattooing has been practiced in various cultures for thousands of years, from ancient Polynesia to Japanese Yakuza. However, it was in the mid-20th century American motorcycle scene that these ancient practices began to fuse with new meanings.
1. Military and Naval Influence: Many early bikers were former military men who brought their tattoo traditions with them. Designs such as eagles, anchors, and skulls were popular, symbolizing strength, freedom, and survival. These designs were often adapted to fit the rebellious ethos of the biker lifestyle.
2. Outlaw and Rebellion Themes: As biker culture grew, so did its association with rebellion and defiance of societal norms. This was reflected in tattoo designs that often featured skulls, flames, and other imagery associated with danger and defiance. These tattoos were not just decorative; they were badges of honor, representing a biker’s commitment to a life on the road and an outsider’s attitude towards conventional society.
Iconic Designs and Their Meanings
As biker culture continued to evolve, so did the symbolism behind biker tattoos. Certain designs became emblematic of different aspects of biker identity and values:
• Skulls: Representing mortality and toughness, skulls are a staple in biker tattoos. They serve as a reminder of life’s fragility and the biker’s embrace of danger and defiance.
• Eagles: Often seen in designs featuring American flags, eagles symbolize freedom and patriotism, resonating with the broader American identity and the spirit of independence associated with biker culture.
• Dragons: Particularly in the 1960s and 70s, dragons became a popular motif, reflecting both the rebellious nature of the biker lifestyle and a nod to Eastern tattoo traditions.
• Rebel Flags and Club Symbols: Each motorcycle club often developed its own distinct symbols, which were proudly worn as tattoos to signify membership and loyalty.
The Evolution and Mainstream Recognition
As biker culture grew in visibility, so did the recognition of its tattoos. By the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the oncemarginalized art form began to gain mainstream acceptance. Biker tattoos were featured in films, television, and popular media, contributing to their broader appeal and adoption.
Today, biker tattoos are no longer confined to the rebellious fringes of society. They are celebrated as a form of artistic expression and are often sought after by those who admire the history and symbolism behind them. Tattoo artists have taken the traditional designs and incorporated modern techniques, blending old-school aesthetics with contemporary styles.
The Legacy of Biker Tattoos
In essence, biker tattoos are more than just ink; they are a narrative of rebellion, freedom, and identity. They tell the story of a culture that values camaraderie, independence, and a life lived on one’s own terms. As biker culture continues to evolve, so too will its tattoos, reflecting new trends and continuing the tradition of inked legends on the open road.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or simply an admirer of the art form, understanding the history of biker tattoos offers a deeper appreciation for their significance and the rich subculture they represent. So next time you see a biker tattoo, you’ll know it’s more than just body art—it’s a piece of history, a symbol of defiance, and a testament to a life lived on the edge.
Research Tattoo Parlors in Your Area
How to Choose an Artist for your Custom Tattoo
So you’ve decided that you want to get a tattoo, and furthermore you’ve decided you want something custom. Maybe you decided that you didn’t want to pick a design out of a book or off the wall of a shop for something that you are going to be wearing for the rest of your life. A custom tattoo is often a much more meaningful way of expressing yourself through body art – but the key is finding an artist that can create the masterpiece you’ve envisioned. Custom tattoos can be anything you want them to be and in any style, but you have to find a professional that can deliver what you have in mind for your custom tattoo. Finding the right tattoo artist is crucial to getting exactly what you want, and it can be a challenge if you’re not careful. Here are some tips for finding the right tattoo artist for you.
When you first start looking for a custom tattoo artist, talk to people you know about their tattoos. Ask them where they went, who did the tattoo, and what their impressions of the shop were like. Don't be afraid to approach a stranger with a great tattoo to ask questions. Most people with custom tattoos are extremely proud of the work they've had done and will be happy to tell you all about it, especially if you tell them why you're asking. People with tattoos often feel connected to each other in some sort of strange, shared experience kind of way.
Just talking to people around town will give you an idea of what tattoo shops have a reputation for cleanliness and high quality of work. You may also find yourself told where not to go, so take these warnings seriously. On a personal note, I know an unfortunate young man who decided to try a brand new tattoo shop that was advertising a special. He ended up with a custom tattoo of his guitar with the name of the guitar spelled wrong. In the custom tattoo world, reputation is everything.
Tattoo parlors and custom tattoo artists get most of their business through word of mouth. A great custom tattoo walking around town is a much better advertisement than a coupon in the phone book as far as tattoos are concerned. However, professional artists will invest in their work and promote their business. Iron & Ink Magazine works with a variety of artists that have proven themselves to be both skilled and professional in terms of maintaining themselves to established standards. We showcase custom work both in our magazine features and at our events so that you can see some of the masterpieces created by artists within our own area and nationally.
Check out our Facebook Page, www.facebook.com/ ironandinkpage, for more information on Iron & Ink events and to view our galleries. Our informal tattoo parties are designed to informal events allowing folks to share the ink they have – often with the artists that did the work looking on. It’s a great chance to see different styles and talk to actual clients of an artist.
Find a Tattoo Artist Who Meets Your Needs
Once you have an idea of where you want to go, the next step is to make contact and meet the artist. Go to their studio and spend some time looking at the tattoo artists' portfolios. A portfolio is different than the pictures (called flash) hanging on the walls. A portfolio is an actual book of photographs that a tattoo artist takes of tattoos she has done. A tattoo artist's portfolio is a reflection of what she feels is her best work and reflects the range of her talents, or showcases her particular expertise.
It’s worth noting that a professional artist should have a professional looking portfolio showcasing their work. Like any craftsman, they should take pride in their work and their portfolio may be their only evidence of the masterpieces that they have created. If the artist doesn’t have a portfolio or simply as a collection of cell phone shots – that may be cause for concern.
If you're especially drawn to a particular portfolio, the next question to ask yourself is whether or not the tattoo artist is skilled in the style of tattoo you want. There are many different styles of tattoos, from tribal, black and gray fineline, to graffiti style, and every tattoo artist has a specialty.
Once you've found a custom tattoo artist whose work appeals to you and looks like what you want, the next step is to have a consultation. If the tattoo artist is busy, you may need to make an appointment to come in and talk. If not, you can usually talk about the kind of tattoo you want right then. Once you are sure of your tattoo artist's abilities, you need to assess whether or not he is enthusiastic about doing your tattoo and willing to work with you to make the drawing for it. You can find a great tattoo artist, but finding one willing to satisfy your needs and is receptive to your ideas is just as important as having talent.
Meet Your Custom Tattoo Artist Halfway
Finding a custom tattoo artist that you love is great, but getting the tattoo you want requires more than just tracking down the right person for the job. Meet your new tattoo artist halfway during the creative process so that he can more quickly assess what you are in the market for.
When you talk to your tattoo artist about making your custom tattoo, it helps to tell her more than just what you want your tattoo to look like. While your custom tattoo artist will make a drawing of the tattoo you'll receive, you need to help her figure out what that drawing should look like. Take in drawings or pictures of things or other tattoos that match the style or subject of your tattoo. Explain the symbolism behind the tattoo. Make a rough sketch of what you want, even if your drawing abilities are usually limited to stick figures. The more you give your tattoo artist to go on, the more likely you are to end up with a good drawing the first time.
When you go back to look at the drawing your tattoo artist has made of your custom tattoo, feel free to suggest changes or modifications. If the drawing looks nothing like what you had in mind, don't be afraid to say so or look for another tattoo artist. You have the final say about what goes on your skin, so don't worry about offending his artistic sensibilities.
It’s important that you feel comfortable with the artist. You are entrusting your body – both visually in terms of the work that’s done and physically in terms of your health and the artist’s adherence to proper sanitary standards. If the shops a mess and it appears as though the artist hasn’t bathed in months –how comfortable are you that he’s following the proper hygiene standard in regards to his needles and equipment.
The artist should also treat you with respect and be appreciative of the fact that you are entrusting yourself to their care and artistic ability. If the artist is rude or condescending towards you or acts as though you are privileged to warrant their time –chances are you’re not going to end up getting exactly what you want.
As you’re developing the design never forget that it’s YOUR tattoo. Never let the artist talk you into something you’re not comfortable with. Regardless of what they want to create or what they think looks cool – it’s YOUR tattoo.
Thanks to Dan Hare, D.A. Smith, and David Eggert for photos.
How to Choose an Artist for your Custom Tattoo
Price is NOT the most important factor, but it’s an obvious consideration.
You should get an estimate of how much your custom tattoo will cost before your tattoo artist starts inking you. Some tattoo artists charge an hourly rate for custom work, while others charge based on the size and complexity of the design. Either way, be prepared to pay more for a custom tattoo than for something you pick off a wall.
Tattoos can be expensive – especially if you’re working with an accomplished artist that’s in demand. If you’re looking to get something you can wear on your body forever – it’s probably worth saving up your money for the artist and piece you really want. Not choosing the right artist, will cost you more later if you need to fix it or even get a coverup for a discounted, impulse tattoo.
When it comes to custom tattoo work, be willing to shell out some cash. This is one aspect of your life where being frugal won't get you anywhere good. The best custom tattoo artists charge more than others because the quality of their work is higher and people are willing to pay for it. In five years, you won't remember how much you paid for your tattoo, but you will still have to look at it every day.
That being said, the artist should respect you, your time, and what you’re investing in the work as well. Some attitude can be expected, as they should be proud of their work – however, they should also be appreciative of your interest in them and the fact that you are offering up your body to them and their craft.
Remember that tattoo artists work in the service industry, and they should be tipped accordingly. For a tattoo artist who is willing to take the time to talk to you about your tattoo and draw it for you, be especially generous. While the talking is free, that time they spent just talking was time they could have spent actually tattooing someone else for money. It’s also worth noting that being especially generous and respectful of time spent early on may earn you more respect – and thus extra consideration and effort – later as the project gets underway. In most cases, it’s money well spent if you want to ensure a positive relationship.
Trust your Instincts and Stick with your Preferences
Only you know what’s best for you and your body – well, in most cases. And if you aren’t comfortable with the artist, the studio, or how they treat you – just move on. Thank the artist for their time and continue looking. The last thing you want is to find yourself under the needle and you then discover that the artist has a different interpretation or goal in mind than you – or worse, that they do – and theirs is the only opinion that counts. Before putting money down for a deposit, which is a standard requirement when asking for an artist to draw up work for you), make sure that you’re comfortable with the artist and their outlook on the project.
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RECIPES
Three Cheese Corn Pudding
INGREDIENTS :
• 3 TABLESPOONS ALL-PURPOSE FLOUR
• 2 TABLESPOONS GRANULATED SUGAR
• 2 TEASPOONS BAKING POWDER
• 2 TEASPOONS KOSHER SALT
• 1/4 TEASPOON BLACK PEPPER
• 6 LARGE EGGS
• 2 CUPS HEAVY CREAM
• 1/2 CUP SALTED BUTTER, MELTED AND COOLED
• 6 CUPS COOKED CORN KERNELS
• 1 CUP SHREDDED SHARP CHEDDAR CHEESE
• 1 CUP SHREDDED PEPPER JACK CHEESE
• 1/3 CUP SHREDDED PARMESAN CHEESE
• 2 GREEN ONIONS, SLICED PREPARATION :
• PREHEAT OVEN TO 350 DEGREES.
• IN A SMALL BOWL, WHISK TOGETHER FLOUR, SUGAR, BAKING POWDER, SALT, AND PEPPER.
• IN A MEDIUM BOWL, WHISK TOGETHER EGGS, HEAVY CREAM, AND MELTED BUTTER.
• ADD FLOUR MIXTURE AND WHISK UNTIL BLENDED.
• STIR IN CORN, CHEESE, AND GREEN ONION.
• TRANSFER MIXTURE INTO A GREASED 9×13-INCH BAKING DISH.
• BAKE FOR 40 MINUTES OR UNTIL SET IN THE MIDDLE. LET COOL FOR 5 MINUTES BEFORE SERVING.
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Homemade Chicken Nuggets
INGREDIENTS
:
• 2 BONELESS, SKINLESS CHICKEN BREASTS
• 1 CUP ALL-PURPOSE FLOUR
• 1 TSP SALT
• 1 TSP BLACK PEPPER
• 1 TSP GARLIC POWDER
• 1 TSP ONION POWDER
• 2 LARGE EGGS
• 2 TBSP WATER
• 2 CUPS BREADCRUMBS (PANKO OR REGULAR)
• VEGETABLE OIL (FOR FRYING)
• YOUR FAVORITE DIPPING SAUCES (RANCH, BBQ, ETC)
INSTRUCTIONS :
• PREPARE THE CHICKEN:
• CUT THE CHICKEN BREASTS INTO NUGGET-SIZED PIECES, ABOUT 1 TO 1.5 INCHES EACH.
• SET UP THE BREADING STATIONS:
• IN ONE SHALLOW DISH, MIX THE FLOUR, SALT, BLACK PEPPER, GARLIC POWDER, AND ONION POWDER.
• IN A SECOND DISH, BEAT THE EGGS WITH THE WATER.
• IN A THIRD DISH, PLACE THE BREADCRUMBS.
• BREAD THE CHICKEN:
• DREDGE EACH PIECE OF CHICKEN IN THE SEASONED FLOUR, SHAKING OFF ANY EXCESS.
• DIP THE FLOURED CHICKEN INTO THE EGG MIXTURE, ENSURING IT'S COMPLETELY COATED.
• FINALLY, ROLL THE CHICKEN IN THE BREADCRUMBS, PRESSING GENTLY TO ADHERE.
• FRY THE NUGGETS:
• IN A LARGE SKILLET, HEAT ABOUT 1 INCH OF VEGETABLE OIL OVER MEDIUM-HIGH HEAT. THE OIL SHOULD REACH AROUND 350°F (175°C).
• FRY THE CHICKEN NUGGETS IN BATCHES, MAKING SURE NOT TO OVERCROWD THE PAN. COOK FOR 3-4 MINUTES PER SIDE, OR UNTIL GOLDEN BROWN AND COOKED THROUGH.
• REMOVE THE NUGGETS WITH A SLOTTED SPOON AND PLACE THEM ON A PLATE LINED WITH PAPER TOWELS TO DRAIN ANY EXCESS OIL.
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