Biker Patches

If you are going to wear a biker patch, it pays to know something about biker patch rules and etiquette. The reason is simple: your actions will be reflected on all bikers in the area. This is true whether you are an Independent / Lone Wolf or belong to an MC (motorcycle club), RC (riding club) or MM (motorcycle ministry).

Read and Follow the Club Rules

All biker clubs have rules about how to wear the patch. You can avoid a lot of trouble by just following the club rules. If there is something you do not understand, clarify it with the club. Note: most clubs allow you to wear memorial patches anywhere on the vest but it is best to ask first.

If you are making a patch it is a good idea to get familiar with the patch designs used by clubs in your area. Show your intended patch design to the clubs (if there are too many in your area, just show it to the most dominant group).

When you get their approval, you can have it made. This isn’t really necessary, but it is a show of respect for the clubs.

Patches and Colors

Among traditional MCs, the patch is considered different from colors. In their view, the patches are the property of riding clubs and are bought (not earned). It is the colors that belong to the motorcycle club; the colors must be earned.

One of the most important biker patch rules to remember is that among MCs, the colors symbolize commitment. Keep this in mind when making a patch. Patches can mean various things to riding clubs and riders as well.

1 and 2 Piece Patches

The 1-piece patch usually represents a riding club, family club or social motorcycle club. Most 1-pecepaches are approved. The exceptions are when the logos are copied somewhere else or if the design is a lot like the local MC.

The 2-piece patch can mean different things. To be safe, make sure the designs do not infringe on their patches.

3 Piece Patches

This patch can mean the rider is part of an outlaw club or a traditional motorcycle club. In a three-piece patch, the top rocker must bear the club name. The center has the club patch and the bottom the territory.

Sometimes the bottom rocker has a saying or motto included. New MCs should not wear the three-piece patch. If your club wants to wear this patch, you need approval from the existing established MCs in your area.

Rockers

The rockers are the curved patches at the bottom and top. Riding clubs cannot wear them unless approved by the dominant riding club in the area. Social MCs and riding clubs should not claim territory by using the rockers. Do not sew the state name onto your vest or jacket without club approval.

These are the biker patch rules that new riders or clubs should be aware of. There are of course, other stipulations and regulations unique to an area. Get in touch with the local groups in your location just to be safe.