Many of you don't know who or what we're all about-
this is where you'll find out!
Answers to some of your deepest, darkest queries...
1. You claim that you are the second oldest motorcycle club in North America, which is the oldest?
We have documents which prove that the San Francisco Motorcycle Club was founded in 1904, and the club's library contains a running history since that time showing continuous operation as a motorcycle club. Many clubs from this period were "Wheelmen" clubs dedicated to bicyclists, but the SFMC was specific to motorized cycles. We've searched for more than 2 decades for any surviving club older than ours and the only one which is still in existence is the Yonkers Motorcycle Club of New York state (established in 1903).
2. Are you a Harley club?
Nope, we are not fixated on any brand. There are plenty of factory supported clubs for people who are.
3. Are you an "outlaw club"?
Our club has been in existence for 103 years, and in that time there have been a lot of changes. At times it's been very active in the "outlaw community" and at times it's been a family club with lots of kids running around. At times it's had several hundred members, at times less than 20. We're currently neither family nor outlaw and have about 80 members, are on good terms with local outlaws and a few of us have kids.
4. Then, aside from being the 2nd oldest, what kind of a club are you?
We're a motorcycle club for San Francisco's (and nearby) riders. We have male and female members, members with Harley choppers, we have criminals and lawyers, we have members with dirt bikes, we have racers, we have members who commute to work on motorcycles, who like to take month long trips on motorcycles, who like to work on motorcycles, who only have antique bikes, who only ride on weekends, etc. The age ranges from 18 to 80, with the median being around 33. Professions range from the unemployed to executives. The common denominators are that we all live in the area, own at least one motorcycle, we all have motorcycle licenses and we get along about as well as most families.
5. How can I join?
We are a motorcycle club, not an association. Persons interested in joining "some club" are directed to their local factory club (Harley Owners Group, Honda Rider Association, etc.) where they can plunk down some money, immediately become a member and buy a costume. Our application process requires a prospective member to be recommended by two current members, pay a small (partially refundable) fee and undergo a 3 month "prospective member" trial. During the trial period the prospective member must attend and assist in 66% of the club's weekly business meetings and 66% of the club's bi-monthly rides. Following the trial period the membership will vote on the prospective member's admission.
6. But how can a person join if they need two recommendations and don't know any members?
By coming down to our weekly meetings or going on rides with us you'll meet fellow San Franciscan motorcyclists who probably share many of your interests. We'll get to know you, and you us, and you'll probably get two members to recommend you.
7. I'm not a club-type but it sounds like an interesting place. Is it possible to visit?
Of course! We have a business meeting which is open to the motorcycling public every Thursday at 8:15 PM. (2194 Folsom Street @ 18th Street). From March to October we have 2 official rides a month, and many more unofficial rides, and riders are welcome to come along . The San Francisco Motorcycle Club is, paradoxically, made up of people who aren't club-types. Club-types gravitate toward associations because all they're interested in is the posing. A club doesn't provide them with instant gratification. Our clubhouse is kept up and filled by people who enjoy motorcycles, and since you seem inclined that way yourself, you're likely to meet people at the clubhouse who share your interests. Stop by on a Thursday evening or for a club ride and check us out. Do not be deterred by the application process, just stop by and hang out a while. The clubhouse's walls are covered with 103 years worth of framed photographs, banners, awards, trophies and documents. It's a veritable museum to San Francisco motorcycling, it's free to drop in, and you should.
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