The Biker's Honor Code

What makes a biker such an intriguing person? Is it their rakish, leather-clad style, or their road rage that makes them so intimidating, or that they seem to be part of a cult of motorbike worshipers? These stereotypes aside, motorcyclists are the modern knights of the open roads. They have honor among themselves, and their bond with their fellow comrades is greater than blood, and here is why.

A short guideline showing the true nature of motorcyclists - A person with integrity, spirit and utmost loyalty.

What is The Biker Code?

Whether you’re a motorcyclist at heart or a born daredevil, there is no rule in the world you haven’t broken. But little do people know, there are unspoken code ethics you abide by with all your life. Motorcyclists are fiercely loyal to each other. So know that behind that rough and tough facade, lies a person who has more sincerity than your next-door neighbor!

What are these rules that bikers follow whole-heartedly you ask? Well, much like the universally followed “Bro-Code”, bikers have their own version of it which characterizes them as true bikers.

Rule 1: Family first

Bikers are known to be very protective of their fellow bikers. Thus, every other biker is like their brother and sister, and no one messes with them. They will always have each other's back no matter what. That’s why you’ll always see true riders in groups, because bikers are not just a family, they are a pack.

Rule 2: No Nonsense

Whether it’s a man, woman, child or animal, respect should be given where it’s due. But bikers don’t tolerate rubbish from anyone, especially if the other person is clearly at fault. Bikers have immense self-respect, but also know that respecting one another is integral to avoiding unruly violence, or mistrust. When others get brash, they maintain their cool and back their words with actions. ​

Rule 3: Honor the bike

This is a no-brainer. If you're a biker, then your bike is your ultimate soulmate. Honoring your bike is essential as a motorcylist because your life depends on it. Maintaining and taking care of your bike is an utmost essentiality. As most bikers would like to explain, "Motorcycles are like our spouses, you don’t get to touch it, only ogle at it from afar!" ​

Rule 4: Never give up

Bikers are not the kind to easily give up on things. Once their mind is set, nothing in the world can stop them from getting it done. That’s the way of bikers. Just like their passion for their beloved beast, passion in other aspects of life matter too. This is a quality of bikers that everyone envies, as they know what they want in life, and will go to any lengths to fulfil it. ​

Rule 5: No rider left behind

This rule shows the true sign of camaraderie among bikers. Come hell or high water, a biker always sticks to the people who ride along with them. When a brother or sister breaks down at the side of the road, you turn back and wait for them. It’s one of the only times bikers hit the brakes. ​

Rule 6: Stay true to yourself

A true biker is happy with who they are, always. No matter how messy life gets, or how many actions they take that might be questionable (like those occasional wheelies), everything defines them. Right from the way they talk, to the way they dress, there’s an unmistakable charm to every biker that makes them so alluring and a little eccentric. Thus, there’s nothing that will make them change.

Rule 7: Stick to your guns

No, not actual guns. Stick to your principles and words. If you promised something to someone, that promise is etched in time. If you think what you’ve said is right, don’t turn back on your own words. A true biker stands his ground and trusts his/her instincts more than anyone else.

Rule 8: All gear all the time​  

Bikers may love doing dare-devilish stunts or trail-blazing the roads, but you will never see them being under-equipped in such situations. People who do ride without the proper gear are called “SQUIDS”, an acronym for “Stupidly Quick, Underdressed, Imminently Dead”. So, next time you wonder why bikers love wearing those greasy leather jackets, it’s for protection and not to look intimidating. ​

Rule 9: Ride with pride

Biking is not a hobby. Biking is not a game. It is an art, and only the passionate ones will understand the true meaning of riding. Bikers ride no matter the cause or occasion. When they are sad, they ride. When they are in doubt, they take a ride. But they never get tired of riding. Their motorcycle is their soulmate and wherever they go, the bike goes too. ​

“Focus on the journey, not the destination. Joy is not found in finishing an activity, but in doing it.” - Greg Anderson

Do you live by any of these Honor Codes? Share with us your code of ethics and bike stories! Don't own a bike but want to experience the true life of a biker? Then come rent a bike with Royal Brothers - Bike Rentals at your nearest location.