Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs

A motorcycle club (MC) is an organized club of dedicated motorcyclists who join together for camaraderie, strength of

numbers, companionship, education, rider training, and socialization.

Usually organized around a brand or make of motorcycle(ex: Harley Davidson)

“One Percenters:”

Comment made by American Motorcyclist Association after Hollister Riot that “99% of motorcyclists are law-abiding citizens”

Implies that last 1% are outlaws

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKmjYacLur4

FBI has designated four motorcycle clubs as “Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs:”

1. Hells Angels2. Pagans

3. Bandidos4. Outlaws

Hells Angels

Worldwide motorcycle gang (425 chapters/50 countries)Ride Harley Davidsons; Predominantly white malesStarted in 1948 by WWII veterans (name taken from

flying squadron “Hell’s Angels”)Established its notoriety during 1960s counterculture

FBI SAYS: Members carry out widespread violent crimes, including drug dealing, trafficking in stolen goods, extortion and

prostitution.

HELLS ANGELS SAY: They are only a group of motorcycle enthusiasts who have joined to ride motorcycles together & organize social

events, and that any crimes are the responsibility of the individuals who carried them out and not the club as a whole.

“Filthy Few” patch only worn by members who have committed murder on behalf of the club

PAGANS:

Formed in 1959 in MarylandOften fight over territory with Hells Angels

Fairly non-violent in early years, but ties to the mafia were discovered

Grew through merging with smaller motorcycle gangs

BANDIDOS:

Formed in Texas in 1966“We are the people your parents warned you about”

Named after mexican bandits who lived by their own rulesGlobal motorcycle club; over 90 chapters in U.S.Gun battle in Waco, TX - may have been a setup

OUTLAWS:

Formed in McCook, IL in 1935“ADIOS” = Angels Die in Outlaw States

International motorcycle club: Other “Outlaw” clubs worldwide have merged with main group