Rolling Thunder Life Inside An Outlaw Motorcycle Club
Outlaw motorcycle clubs have been a subject of fascination for many people for decades. From the Hell's Angels to the Bandidos, these clubs have been portrayed in movies, TV shows, and books as dangerous and violent organizations. Rolling Thunder: Life Inside an Outlaw Motorcycle Club is a book that offers a unique perspective on what it's really like to be a member of one of these clubs.
What is an Outlaw Motorcycle Club?
Outlaw motorcycle clubs, also known as one-percenters, are organizations that are often associated with criminal activity. The term one-percenter was coined in the 1940s after a statement made by the American Motorcycle Association that 99% of motorcyclists were law-abiding citizens.
Outlaw motorcycle clubs are known for their distinctive patches, which usually feature a logo and the name of the club. These patches are worn on the back of the member's vest, also known as a cut. The patches are considered sacred by club members and are not to be worn by anyone who is not a member of the club.
Rolling Thunder: Life Inside an Outlaw Motorcycle Club
Rolling Thunder: Life Inside an Outlaw Motorcycle Club is a book written by a former member of an outlaw motorcycle club. The author, William Queen, was a member of the Mongols Motorcycle Club, one of the most notorious outlaw motorcycle clubs in the United States.
The book offers a unique perspective on what it's really like to be a member of an outlaw motorcycle club. It's not just about the illegal activities that these clubs are often associated with. It's also about the brotherhood and camaraderie that exists within these clubs.
The Brotherhood
One of the most important aspects of being a member of an outlaw motorcycle club is the brotherhood. Club members are considered family, and they will do anything to protect each other. This sense of loyalty is what sets these clubs apart from other organizations.
Members of these clubs often refer to each other as brothers, and they participate in rituals that reinforce this bond. For example, new members may be required to go through a hazing ritual, which can involve anything from getting a tattoo to performing a task for the club.
The Criminal Activities
It's no secret that outlaw motorcycle clubs are often involved in criminal activity. These clubs are known for their involvement in drug trafficking, extortion, and other illegal activities. However, it's important to note that not all members of these clubs are involved in criminal activity.
According to William Queen, the author of Rolling Thunder: Life Inside an Outlaw Motorcycle Club, only a small percentage of club members are involved in criminal activity. The majority of members are law-abiding citizens who simply enjoy the brotherhood and camaraderie that comes with being a member of an outlaw motorcycle club.
The Risks
Being a member of an outlaw motorcycle club is not without its risks. Members of these clubs are often targets of law enforcement, and they may also be targeted by rival clubs. In addition, members may be involved in violent conflicts with other clubs or individuals.
Despite the risks, many members of outlaw motorcycle clubs are willing to take the chance. The brotherhood and sense of belonging that comes with being a member of one of these clubs is often worth the risk.
Conclusion
Rolling Thunder: Life Inside an Outlaw Motorcycle Club offers a unique perspective on what it's really like to be a member of one of these clubs. It's not just about the criminal activity that these clubs are often associated with. It's also about the brotherhood and camaraderie that exists within these clubs. While being a member of an outlaw motorcycle club may not be for everyone, it's clear that for those who are a part of these clubs, it's a way of life.