Misunderstood Biker Fashions

1. Perception Vs. Function

The biker culture is a very special one. We are all part of it (assumed if you are reading this) or curiosity has you thinking, why? The classic perception of the leather-clad, tattooed, hell-raising biker is a prevalent one, however, the biker scene has changed much in the last twenty years. Actually, you'd be surprised, that biker that just passed you might just be your local kindergarten teacher! Live and let live, don't look for trouble and there won't be trouble - that is the unspoken but well-defined rule within the biker community. Still, to too many a biker is synonymous with trouble. Is it the faded leather in 90-degree weather? The skull bandana covering up the face? Well, the "look" of a biker is rooted in both history, form, and function. To the non-riders, this is just as perplexing as anything that does not fit the "normal" standard that they are used to. 

>>Join the conversation about Misunderstood Biker Fashions right here in HD Forums.

2. The Vest

The leather or fabric vest is a must-have for most motorcycle riders. It is mostly associated with affiliation to motorcycle clubs or will be a canvas for "I have been there" patches. A vest is almost as important to the rider as the motorcycle itself and it's also a functional piece of clothing that dates back to the Plains Native Americans. Along with thick leather chaps, Native Americans discovered that a rider could ride much longer when he was protected from the elements. Leather vests, along with beads and other appurtenances also afforded much-needed protection during wars. The practice of wearing vests and chaps while riding was quickly adopted by early European settlers for the exact same reason. Motorcycles made their debut in the United States during the early 1900's and riders quickly realized that a leather vest protected them very well from stones and other hazards which became more so at 50mph. So, why a vest and not a full jacket?  Heat, of course. Most of the road debris and wind directly affects the chest area, which is also vital for temperature regulation. Even on the hottest of days, the cycle of sweating and evaporation in 70mph winds can wreak havoc with core temperature and even kidney function. 

>>Join the conversation about Misunderstood Biker Fashions right here in HD Forums.

3. Fringe

Although today, fringe does not serve a functional purpose it is still popular among bikers. Few people understand where this tradition comes from and what vital function it played at one point. There was, of course, no sewing machines available for Native Americans so leather vests and chaps were instead tied together to cover the body. The fringe, which was the tails left after the knot was made keeping the garment together served as a way to route rainwater and perspiration away from the wearer. Horses also wore leather garments and they too had fringes which served the same purpose. Eventually, sewing replaced the need for fringe but the style remained. Some motorcycle riders wear jackets or vest with fringe and motorcycles still sport this fashion as an homage to the old days. 

>>Join the conversation about Misunderstood Biker Fashions right here in HD Forums.

4. Bandana

You'll see them on the road; half helmets and a bandana wrapped around the face making the bikers look as though they just robbed the stagecoach. Sure, a full face helmet would negate the need for a bandana, but its rider's choice. There is no way to be sure who invented the bandana but is a safe to assume that it was a very, very long time ago. Knights in Europe wore them, Native Americans wore them, and cowboys wear it. It prevents sunburn and windburn while adding to the bad-ass image. It is also used to regulate temperature and sometimes, in hot weather one is worn around the neck which is constantly moistened to provide a cooling effect. One would have a hard time finding a biker that does not have at least one. 

>>Join the conversation about Misunderstood Biker Fashions right here in HD Forums.

5. Leather

While we know that Native Americans started this trend, how did it become black leather? Well, for starters, when cared for properly a leather vest, jacket, and chaps are water resistant, warm, and last a very long time. Black is just a universally accepted color but there is plenty of brown and gray leather out there. Leather will also protect the rider, in the event of an accident, from dreaded road-rash. Unlike cotton or other fabrics, leather holds up very well to the elements, sweat, and odor. 

>>Join the conversation about Misunderstood Biker Fashions right here in HD Forums.

6. Stereotype

Normally, people try to avoid becoming part of the outlaw stereotype. Bikers, on the other hand embrace it. While Harley-Davidson and Indian riders will leather up and proudly patch-up the vest while rocking the half helmet, other riders embrace their own stereotypes. Sport riders embrace the high-tech composite helmets with the high-density plastic suits for knee-draggin' maneuvers. Adventure riders have their own thing going on with matching rally suits and dirt-bike fashion. Still, these fashions are both functional and practical. The biker community is all about understanding and respecting not just individual cultures, sub-cultures, but the people who ride along with us. 

Have fun, be safe, and ride on! 

>>Join the conversation about Misunderstood Biker Fashions right here in HD Forums.

For help with your maintenance and repair projects, please visit our how-to section right here in the forum.