6 Rules of Harley-Davidson Etiquette
Owning a Harley-Davidson means you are part of a legendary brotherhood of motorcycle owners, here are some of the etiquette guidelines you need to know.
1. The Two Fingers Wave
When you're on the road and you pass another Harley-Davidson, you will notice they will often flash you the two-finger wave; much like the peace sign, only upside down. This doesn't mean the rider is promoting world peace, it only means keep your two wheels on the ground. So whenever you see another Harley on the road, or any bike if you are feeling friendly, be sure to flash the two-fingers sign.
2. The Ride Along
When you're cruising on the open highway and you approach another Harley-Davidson rider, you have to ride with them for a few hundred feet before going past them. This isn't a law or anything, it is proper etiquette to show other riders your respect. The H-D community is an amazing one, and if you're a part of it, you should be always be working on strengthening it. Just like animals travel in packs, Harley riders like to do that as well. So ride along in formation with riders for a ways if you are headed in the same direction, then smoothly pass them by and flash them the two-finger wave.
3. Getting on the Motorcycle
This one could be a safety concern, but it is mostly just proper motorcycle etiquette. When you are about to mount your bike, you should always approach it from the left side, unless you want to look like a newbie. The reason is so that you can more easily reach for the handlebar and squeeze the front brake, so the bike doesn't roll (if it is in neutral). Finally, the kickstand is on the left, so the bike leans that way, and it's just easier to get without looking goofy trying to climb over it.
4. Rev Rev
Part of owning a Harley-Davidson is the awesome roar it produces. Aside from the satisfaction you get from hearing your monstrous engine rev, that trademark sound is a big part of the community. So when you see another Harley-Davidson rider parked, or if you are stopped at a red light next to them, give them a couple of rev salute. It's just proper etiquette.
5. Share the Hate
The motorcycle community is fantastic and diverse, and everywhere you go, you can connect with other bikers. However, if you ride a Harley-Davidson, you are expected to share the hatred for plastic clad sportbike riders. Of course, if you were picking sides between sportbike riders and car drivers, you'd go in with your brother biker, but you'd still treat them like a stupid little brother. The weird thing is, plenty of Harley riders also own sportbikes, but when out with their hog riding friends they keep that dirty little secret to themselves.
6. Stop and Help
Despite the sometimes tribal nature of motorcycle riders, if you see someone on the side of the road on a bike, it is only polite to stop and offer help. Sometimes giving a fellow biker a lift to the next exit to pick up gas, or find someone with a truck, could literally save their life. Even when you aren't riding your bike (and especially if you are driving a truck or van) stopping to help out a broken down bike rider will pay into your biker Karma. Then, when you run out of gas or get a flat, the chances of someone stopping to help you are much better.
For help with keeping your bike in a fine state of tune, see the how to section of HDForums.com
