Did you know that some motorcycle clubs actually have specific colors they use to identify themselves and their club? These insignia colors are often reflected in the patches the club members wear on their jackets. These patches also help to identify where the club is located and what it considers its territory. Many different clubs wear patches, but the origin of the practice began in the 1960s. Since then, wearing insignia has often been associated with outlaw groups or with those who consider themselves the biker elite.
Colors can be embroidered patches added to clothing, but in some cases, they are actually painted or screen printed onto clothing. Generally, a bike club's colors are arranged in a specific way. The back of the vest or jacket features a large back patch of the club's logo. Above and below it are large rockers that often include the club's name and the city or area it is based out of. On the front, you'll find a patch listing the member's office if they have been elected to one, a simple 'member' patch if they don't hold a rank, or sometimes 'founder' if they were one of the club's original members. The club's name may also be featured in smaller letters on the front. Sometimes, even the member's name is included on a patch. Clubs that create these custom patches often purchase blank wholesale biker patches and have someone embroider the member's names on them.
When bikers wear these club jackets or vests, they are flying their colors. Many clubs that fly their colors are chartered under the American Motorcyclist Association and wear them as a way of showing club loyalty and solidarity. They're often worn on official rides, runs, and at motorcycle rallies.
