There’s more to motorcycle ownership than just the bike itself. Many riders will tell you that one of the best parts of riding is the community that comes with it. If you’ve ever struck up a conversation with a stranger about your mutual love of bikes, then you know just how easy it is to connect with someone over this shared passion. Even people who don’t own a bike may want to ask you about yours.

But you don’t necessarily have to bump into a stranger to meet a fellow rider. Just join a motorcycle club. Motorcycle clubs can be found all across the country and offer lots of great benefits. In fact, Harley-Davidson has an exclusive group for its owners, known as the Harley Owners Group (HOG). Find one you can join near Crystal Harley-Davidson in Homosassa, Florida, serving New Port Richey, Spring Hill, and St. Petersburg.

The Camaraderie

Of course, the greatest reason to join a motorcycle club is all the other riders you’ll meet there. You’ll be part of something bigger than yourself and you’ll meet people who share your love of riding. They’re a group of people you can depend on and some of them might become more than riding buddies and people to chat with about motorcycles. There might be a best friend or pseudo-family waiting for you, especially if your own family doesn’t or can’t offer you the same support. 

Sense of Order

Some people appreciate the order and structure that comes with being in a motorcycle group. It makes it easier to figure out how everything works and can provide you with the kind of guidance you might be looking for, especially if you’re new to riding. All clubs have rules that need to be observed, all of which should be supportive, rather than restrictive, so you can maintain just enough order to feel comfortable. 

Safety in Numbers

Riding in a group can be much safer than riding alone, especially on longer trips. Even if you’re fairly confident in your ability to protect yourself, you might find the companionship helpful if your bike breaks down and you need someone to wait with you while the tow truck arrives. Plus, that way, you know you can trust the person you’re waiting with. Also, if you go out traveling as a group and you get hurt, there’s someone there to get help. 

Become a Better Rider

Of all the things you can learn from your fellow riders, you might find riding tips to be the most helpful. They can also give you lots of life advice, but nowhere else will you find a better place to learn biking tips and tricks. These can include maintenance tips, which can be a big but tricky part of ownership. Even if you ultimately need to take your bike in to a professional, you’ll have someone you can call and talk to about what your motorcycle is doing and get some guidance. This can be much easier and more personal than calling a repair shop or even Harley-Davidson themselves.

Motorcycle Clubs Near You

And now for the good part. Of course, we have to push our own HOG chapter! The Crystal River HOG chapter meets regularly and gathers for special events in the region. They even have a Ladies of Harley (LOH) group! You’ll find a welcoming group of people who are excited to have you join the family. Contact them today and ask about how you can join. 

You can also find other great motorcycle club options in the area. Just stop by Crystal Harley-Davidson and chat with our staff or one of the other riders about clubs they’re part of and any other questions you might have about your Harley-Davidson® motorcycle. We proudly serve Homosassa, New Port Richey, Spring Hill, and St. Petersburg, Florida.