Biker Patch Meanings

The following biker patch meanings are the most widely accepted by experts, but by no means are they the only ways to interpret them. It is very possible for bikers and clubs to implement other meanings into a patch.

1 Percent Patches

The 1 percent patch is worn by outlaw motorcycle clubs (organizations not sanctioned by the AMA or American Motorcyclists Association). According to legend, the AMA issued a statement saying 99% of motorcyclists in the US follow the law.

99% Patches

This patch is in response to the 1% patch. This is worn by several (not all) non outlaw bikers.

Outlaw Patches

There are many types of outlaw patches, but most of them have the same three piece patch layout. Non-outlaw patches are either one or two patches. The outlaw patches are numerous, and each club may have special meanings assigned to a patch design. Some of the most popular / notorious patches are the following.

13 Patches

The 13 stands for the letter M, that much is known. However, there are numerous theories as to what the M stands for. Some experts believe the M stands for marijuana. Others think that the M stands for methamphetamine.

This meaning would suggest that a rider wearing the patch is a drug addict or selling drugs. But there are others who believe the M stands for motorcycle.

Other Biker Patch Meanings and Types

The *.F.F.* means Club Name Forever, Forever. This patch is used by clubs like Hell’s Angels and the Sons of Silence. The 9er patch is worn by bikers with Indian blood. 9 is the chosen number because I is the ninth letter of the alphabet.

The OWOF patch means Original Wild Ones Forever. This patch is worn by the Boozefighters MC. Wings are also used by various clubs. The wings design is used by many clubs, both outlaw and non-outlaws.

Among non-outlaw clubs, the wings could signify freedom or independence. Among outlaw clubs, wings can refer to sexual activities.

Other Patches

There are also patches that denote one’s position in the club or organization. These patches include President, Vice President, Secretary, Sergeant at Arms and others.

There are also patches that indicate one’s moniker or place of origin. Sometimes the location specified on the patch does not refer to the person’s origin, but rather that of the motorcycle.

The skull and crossbones is another popular patch. Outlaw bikers that wear this suggest that they have been involved in brawls or may have killed someone. It can also mean they have come close to death.

Bikers who are not outlaws also wear this type of patch. However, it can have other meanings other than the ones cited above. In some instances, the biker attaches no meaning to the patch; it is simply worn because it looks cool.

Studying biker patch meanings can be difficult as various things can be attached to these designs. If you are going to make your own patch, knowing what these patches means is a good idea. It will help you decide what features to implement.