Prior to joining CMC, it is important to understands the philosophy of the traditional motorcycle club (MC), how it is organized, and what to expect from membership in one. Each MC has many things in common with others, but each is still distinct in its overall philosophy. If Motorcycle riding is a significant part of your lifestyle, it is natural you would look at organizations that center their existence around motorcycles, riding, and associated activities. Because there are many types of motorcycle organizations, being correctly informed can lead you to the correct type or organization that is right for you.
Within the motorcycling community are subcultures, some of which if entered into recklessly could prove detrimental. Regardless of what type of club a rider is affiliated with, we are all part of the motorcycle community. Members of the general public do not understand the distinction between MCs, MAs, and RCs. In view of this, most organizations tend to expect their members act so as to bring favorable credit upon the motorcycling community in general. Additionally, almost all organizations expect their members to show a certain level of respect towards all other organizations and their members. CMC is no different.
Riding clubs (RC) are one type of group that appeals to those that want to go on rides with a group, but do not want or cannot afford the time to invest deep personal commitment to protocols and other expectations of a motorcycle club (MC). Motorcycle associations (MA) are groups that center on motorcycles as well, but have a specific purpose behind that affiliation. Most, if not all are very beneficial to the motorcycling community, but are distinctly different than a traditional MC.
Motorcycle Clubs are the pinnacle of the motorcycle community, and command respect for a number of reasons. While anyone can thuggishly demand respect, only a true MC can command it through the consistently mature and professional conduct of each of its members. Members are chosen by the organization, and while many may be invited to take a look, only a few will be asked to join. Members of traditional MCs must demonstrate a level of personal commitment and self-discipline uncommon in today’s society. Motorcycle Clubs relate to other clubs through mutual respect and protocols. They are proud of their brotherhood, their colors and their club. Recognizing that an entire club can be stigmatized by the inappropriate acts of a single individual flying their colors, new members generally go through a probationary period where they learn the protocols and expectations of the Motorcycle Club community before they are awarded the full colors of that Club. Individuals who lack respect for themselves, their brothers in the club, and other members of the MC subculture will not find a place in any true MC. A true MC demands that it’s members portray to the general public a positive image of their club and motorcyclists. To this end, full colors are earned only when a probationary member demonstrates a firm grasp of the behaviors expected of him. A true MC strives to be respected and admired by the community rather than feared. The “golden rule” applies; you have to give respect to get respect.
CMC prides itself in observing MC protocol, promoting an historical MC culture, and extending all respect given in kind. We seek to uphold the standards of the MC community. We remain neutral, operating independently but cooperatively as a non-affiliated club. Part of being a MC is following the protocols that extend and receive the respect that three-piece patch clubs mutually accord one another. Within the confines of any given MC, and absolutely in Countrymen MC, a common thread is loyalty; to the club and to its mission.
Attr: USMVMC