The Fierce Commitment to 1% Motorcycle Clubs

Journal abstract

One per cent motorcycle clubs provide opportunities for members to oppose mainstream establishments that are perceived as suppressing their individuality. The purpose of this paper is not to portray the 1% motorcycle club as a security threat, but to explain the personal significance of membership. Through discussing membership through a social identity theory framework the club is recognised as an essential part of a member’s identity. The intense commitment ensures members will go to great lengths to protect, or enhance, their club and it is this fierce commitment, combined with their growing skill sets, that makes 1% motorcycle clubs of interest to alternative movements and law enforcement.