Motorcycle Clubs: How to Get Started

As summer winds down and the cooler months approach, it's a great time for like-minded riders to get together and work o­n building a club! The following question was recently submitted to TravelingBikers.com:

I am wanting to start a club and need info o­n how to do that. Our bikers want a clubhouse and certain things in the clubhouse and, again, I don't know how to go about that, either. Would you please send me any advice o­n this matter?
   - Summer SUMMERRAYNE46@aol.com

Thanks for the question, Summer! In my opinion, here are the things you need to consider first:

WHO + WHAT + WHERE + WHEN + WHY = HOW

• WHO: Most motorcycle clubs start with friends that share a love for Open Air Riding. Whether you start with two or 200, what matters most is clearly defining:
  
  WHAT: Riding together is usually just a start for clubs; you also need a focus. Find a common interest amongst your riding group. Rides and rallies for charities are very popular with riders, something we can all be proud of! Of course, there are other interests to pursue (finding the best rides for an area, etc.), but without a "cause" to ride for, you might find your members are less likely to take the time to devote to club activities.
  
  
• WHERE: You'll likely start by meeting in member's homes, or a local bar or restaurant. Some clubs are fortunate enough to have a member (or friend of a member) that owns a suitable establishment. If you have a specific charitable cause you want to help, check with the organization; they may have an appropriate meeting space for you to use.
  
  
• WHEN: Most clubs meet no less than o­nce a month. Some get together o­nce a week. It really depends o­n the "WHAT" question. Find a focus and then make a schedule. You can be flexible with a smaller membership, but as membership grows, you'll simply have to do your best to find the best time for the majority.
  
  
• WHY: This relates to "WHAT," of course. Why do want to make the effort to start a club? Answer this and the WHO, WHAT, WHERE and WHEN should follow!

If you want to form a larger, formal club:

Plan o­n setting up a good deal of infrastructure, committee appointments or elections, a newsletter, membership fees, joining other clubs for larger events, etc. Large clubs should consider filing for a Non-Profit Organization and talk to other established clubs for advice.

The best policy is to let the club grow naturally and fit the club's means and goals to its members.

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