The Mongols Motorcycle Club was first established in 1969 by a handful of motorcycle loving Vietnam veterans. In the years since their establishment they have grown to include dozens of American chapters, mostly in Southern California, as well as organizations in Europe, Mexico, Scandinavia, and the Middle East. But come Saturday, April 7 2012, the club's attention turns to their Orange County, California chapter which is celebrating its 14th year of existence.
The celebration will include a chapter ride in which members are encouraged to "put your money in your tank and let's ride!" Unlike rides typically conducted by motorcycle clubs, this one will have no band, no food, and no cover charge. It appears to just be a day set aside for chapter members to enjoy the open road, sunshine, and the brotherhood of the club.
Rides like the one scheduled for this weekend are central to the existence and functioning of motorcycle clubs like the Mongols. In other words, simply having a name, logo, and a custom club patch doesn't do a whole lot to build loyalty and fellowship within a group. Those things are important but the brotherhood only comes in spending time together doing the things that the club is centered around. And since motorcycle clubs are centered on a love of motorcycles, going on group rides is the best way to build that fellowship and brotherhood.
If you're anywhere near Orange County this weekend don't be surprised to see the local Mongols out on their 14th anniversary run. You'll recognize them by their patches. They'll be soaking up the warm spring sun as they ride in a unified effort to celebrate more than a decade as a recognized Mongols chapter.
