Avoiding Highway Altercations with MCs and what is a "No Fly?" 

Nothing says I love the freedom of riding a motorcycle like having my life revolve around a bunch of BS rules and having other people tell me everything I can and can't do.

After watching a few of these ; I like, more than ever, that I generally ride alone. This stuff sounds EXHAUSTING.

I'm 70 years old, been riding since I was 23, I'm a vet, and I currently ride an '04 Heritage that I've owned for almost 14 years and have put over 150,000 miles on. Well a few months back a friend and I were participating in a poker run. As we were on a freeway off-ramp a group of patch wearing 1% decided that we were holding them back, so they swarmed us, riding between us, cutting us off. I have respect for anyone who rides, but an a**hole is still an a**hole, whether he's on a Harley or in a Toyota!!!

If they're a danger to people just minding their own business on public roads, they're not a club, they're a gang.

"Let's initiate an extremely dangerous situation on a highway over a perceived show of disrespect"

I understand the issues between clubs. However, it just seems easier to not be a part of a MC or group so that the issues don’t follow you. I prefer to be able to ride where I want, drink with who I want, not be told where/with who I can ride, etc. To each their own, but I’d rather have the freedom to do what I want (and not have to pull over and takes my cuts off at certain spots).

Such delicate little flowers.

Seems like MC's get butt-hurt pretty easy.

I just recently discovered after 35 years on a motorcycle that I'm not a "biker" according to the "real" bikers. All of whom where wearing suspiciously clean vests.

From time to time I eventually bump into these 1%er losers riding in formation,like they own the freakin road. The guy on the rear signaling me that I am not allowed to pass them. These idiots must be watching too much Mad Max videos, because 1) they don't own the road, and 2) my Hayabusa is too fast for them. In general, street racers don't have issues with Harley riders. Aesthetically speaking, Harley's are absolute dope, but speed overshadows the beauty of the bike. But we have serious problems with guys who expect us to be submissive, just because they are patched. For most rational individuals, a patch doesn't mean nothing, merely a piece of tissue for guys who never reached puberty.

Great information. For anyone who doesn't have much interaction with clubs its good rules of the road. Happy anniversary, have fun. Be safe.

I stumbled across a couple of these videos. At first I thought it was parody, then realized the guy was serious. I don't make a habit of intentionally insulting people, their traditions or their lifestyles (well, I do for bud light drinkers, but...), but if I were to inadvertently insult some 1%'ers and they decided to "teach me a lesson", I would simply draw my legally carried firearm and graduate them to 0%'ers. Leave me alone and I'll leave you alone. That's a simple rule to live by.

as a new biker I have always been interested in what to do coming up to a pack. Haven't encountered it yet but glad I am prepared for when I do! Another great video, Enjoy your getaway. Cheers🍻

I was riding alone in Washington and came across a pack of 1%ers from the area. I stay back for a mile or so and the tail gunner motioned me into their pack. I rode about 10 miles with them back with the hangarounds and prospects but damn it was a blast. We were moving about 90 mph and having a great time. I signaled I needed out and they made room. I got off the freeway and headed home. Best ride of my life. Love this channel btw. Just came across it and subscribed immediately.

Now that we have stand your ground laws in nearly every state, we don't have to tip toe around some bike club 1% or otherwise. I'm a free man and I'll ride how and where I want to. They "demand" unearned respect from strangers yet they respect no one. Reminds of the punk ass group of iron order guys I had an encounter with in st Augustine florida ten years ago. It's easy to be tough when it's ten on one.

Another outstanding and informative vid. Happy Anniversary to you and Mrs. Monkey! Here's to many more...🍻.

Thanks, this is really useful. I often roll up on large groups of HD riders, usually riding well below the speed limit. Normally I just re-route or stop for a coffee and let them get up the road. On occasion, however, on roads like the Blue Ridge Parkway, this is more difficult. Thanks again.

It's good to know. Thanks for the info. There are quite a few clubs up here in New York. I haven't had any issues with any clubs but this info will help to keep it that way. Thanks.

At 70, and over 350,000 miles ridden, I treat every vehicle I come up on with respect. I don't tailgate, honk, etc. When I deem it safe to pass, I do so, quickly and efficiently. Always works for me! What gets me is when a large club lumbers through the hills, leaving no room for turnouts or passes. Rude and disrespectful to faster, or more skilled riders. Really enjoy your channel!

Congratulations on the anniversary. You guys do great things for those kids. St. Peter won't be asking y'all for ID

Happy anniversary! Have an outstanding weekend. Enjoy some alone time with Mrs. Monkey. She'll appreciate you for it. Safe rides! I'm actually going to be in Sturgis on or about 4 August I'm planning.

Just discovered your channel and appreciate the entertainment and the information, particularly the info in this video. Been riding now for 4 years and haven't found myself in a situation like this here in western Wyoming, but now I have some insight about how to handle it properly. Respecting others usually gets you respect in return.

From a trucker's perspective (21 years of professional experience), traffic packs of any kind are a hazard. If you ever notice out on the open road traffic almost always travels in packs. Obviously an MC is a deliberate pack like any other organized ride. The point is, if anything happens to any vehicle in a pack there's a high likelihood it's going to involve all of them. For your own safety in general either stay ahead of a pack or behind it, there's usually a mile or two between packs. Pass ANY pack with care. It just seems common sense that if it's an organized pack it's a good idea to let them be aware of your presence before hammering by. This is for their safety as well. Here's a personal experience to illustrate my point. Some years ago I was traveling on I-196 in Michigan. It was winter and the middle of the night. There was about 3 inches of snow on the road and it hadn't been plowed yet (lake effect snow comes down fast). I had a traffic pack about a mile behind me and I was making sure to stay ahead of it, and was driving in what I figured was the middle lane. I came around a curve and saw right in front of me a broken-down minivan. I eased to the left and passed it. There was no way I could have stopped without hitting him, and all I could do was blow my horn as I went past. As I passed I saw it had the hood up and a guy was messing around under it. Well, the pack behind me that filled up the entire road hit him. He was killed and it turned into a multiple vehicle incident. As an aside, although I ride I'm a casual rider and not a biker.

Dig your channel! Thank you for sharing your knowledge and know how. I appreciate your clear approach and speaking. Keep up the good work!!!

Have to chuckle at some of the responses here. Typical “can do what I want.” No one said that you couldn’t. This is accurate, helpful info for folks that give a care about extending Respect on the road. Honestly folks, chances are VERY slim you’re going to pass a Club on the road. I can only say that for where I live- but most have somewhere to be, and are moving along pretty fast. Faster than me needing to pass them at least. Out of courtesy and Respect, i hang back. Club or not. Do as you will, but this is good, solid information and advice.

My conceal carry keeps me out of freeway altercations with assholes. I've never met an asshole...biker or otherwise that was bullet proof. I'll drive according to state and federal law. As long as everyone else does the same, then all is well. No one else gets to tell me how to drive on the road. This is America...keep this immature bullshit where it belongs, with the kids on the playground.

Great video PM. Presented as usual with succinct and relevant anecdotes. Informative as always, check you and Mrs PM tomorrow night. 🍻

Thanks for trying to help out the community. God Speed and Blessings to You and Yours.

My dad and my uncles were riding to a bike blessing back in the 90s. They rolled up on a pack of Outlaws, so while my Dad and one uncle stayed back, my other uncle blasted past without warning. Let's just say they put the fear of God into him when they caught up

It always made me laugh that just because people formed or joined a club then they make rules of the road that everyone has to follow, life doesn’t work that way and then getting mad or even makes the group look even more pathetic. I have no issues with grown men wanting to join a club, be it a golf club, bowling club or motorcycle club but if bowlers started wearing their patches out in public on vests and telling people that you cannot pass their Vespa convoy until waved past we’d all laugh at them too. I hope you’re having a great time in your clubs but don’t make up shit and expect everyone to follow your rules.

Recently while riding to work, came up behind a group of 6 or so uncut riders. They were snailing it and I wasn't about to be late for work because of their poker run, or coffee cruise, or whatever road hazard they were trying to accomplish. Long story short, I switched over to lane one and quickly but safely over took them. I can only assume it was the road captain that was about half a mile ahead of the group, but I caught up with him at the next light. He didn't give me a second glance or even an inkling of dislike. Granted, had the group been a patched crew, I may have given them a few more seconds to wave me by. Unless they are cut, I usually treat them as regular traffic that is trying to kill me and move along as safely as possible.

I’ve been an ex-pat for the past two decades, so I have no real exposure to the MC culture. Watching your videos are educational. I think going to a rally sounds interesting. Thanks for the video.

So let me get this straight. The general public needs to be aware of what they can and can't do around 1% clubs because God forbid we do something wrong and hurt your little egos. Conversely the 1% clubs will have no regard for the general public in the event of a war between clubs. The guns come out and shots get fired without a second thought to the general public and who might get caught in the crossfire. I guess "Your mommies must have told you all you can do whatever you want."

Great vid, great info, thank you! Happy anniversary to you and the missus......

I learned quite a bit about motorcycle clubs and some of the rules of the road from you, and it's very valuable information that I will never forget. Thank you for helping me learn.

Wondering how many bars I've passed traveling in the south with a " no colors" sign because as a black man I thought something else that lol

" my mummy said I can do whatever I like" said the 40 year old 1%er as he explained he was making extra road rules so you can't ride past him and his boyfriends on the highway.

Recently came across your channel and I love it always great info and great videos in general. I am American Legion Rider member in Iowa your videos have done wonders for me learning to ride as part of unit . Have always ridden solo or with a buddy or 2 recently got my patch for the legion riders and this helped clear some things up for me

Great advice! I just came across your channel recently. It sure is interesting and helpful information. On another video, you mentioned people who try to be who they are not usually get in trouble. And, rightfully so. I am a lone sport/naked bike rider, and even I hate those. We just have to be ourselves and respectful and considerate for others.

One thing about passing a pack (any pack) - its also a safety issue. Depending on how big the pack is, they may see something you can't. Also if you just go by, the guys towards the front may think you're one of them and there's an issue further back. It's not always about cuts and 1% diamonds, sometimes is just keeping everyone safe.

9 yrs ago while driving my truck in Texas close to where I live about 40 Bandidos turned onto a highway in front of me. I slowed down so I wouldn't get in their way and the two guys in the back slowed to almost a stop in front of me, while the rest of the group continued on, and tried to make me pull over. Keep in mind I had my 2 year old son with me. Also a giant EGA on my back window, I'm a Marine vet and just EAS'd. I mention that because they were supposedly started by Marines...obviously no respect for Marines though. I wasn't going to pull over, these dudes looked pissed off, were the size of pro linemen, so I turned at the first rode we passed and one of them turned and chased me down. I finally said fuck it, can't outrun a bike, and slowed down until he pulled up beside me. This is after him following me about 2 miles. I yelled out the window that I'd kill him if he fucked with me and he took off. I had my son with me, wasn't going to take any chances. I always carry and thankfully had an AR on me as I'd just got done shooting out on a friend's ranch. He just took off and I never saw them again. To this day I have no idea why those bastards did that shit, theyre all about respect but jack with me for no reason when I've got a baby with me. What the hell was that all about? Btw, just ran across your channel. I always liked bikers before this incident and really am wondering why they did that. Its hard not to dislike bikers after that, especially these 1%er pricks. Maybe you could shed some light on my experience?

It's crazy how bikers think that everyone should assume that bikers are in the right and everyone should adhere to their standards.

I just wanted to say thank you . I have watch you talk and you have got me getting in touch with the we can’t say organization. I looked it up and I’m ready to give help to my area.

New sub here, just found your channel and still learning some biker etiquette. I was passed by a few clubs on my way down to Daytona last Spring. I hit that right track and gave them plenty if room and they seemed cool with it. Me and the wife 2up on the road that's the last I need is to take an ass whipping for disrespecting a bunch of bikers. Ride hard and keep the shiny side up man!

To know is to understand. I know I came up on a crew one time. Did exactly like you said stay back got waved on. Gave respect to all going by with a wave. Ended up at the same bar hung out with them for some of the night. Good time

I like the channel. Been riding my entire life. Never been in a club, but I have had several friends who have been/are. I wanted to be when younger and almost prospected but changed my mind because I knew I wasn't disciplined enough to respectfully do it. That being said, I have ridden all over and have encountered many clubs: HA, Banditos,Jokers, etc. I have never had a problem with any of them. I even accidentally did what you just said once: I ended up pulling out into their group. There was a local poker run that day I was trying to catch up with and I thought that was the local folks at first. I realized right away it was one of the clubs and just exited ASAP. They were cool- one was even half laughing/smiling as he past because he realized it was an accident. I like your channel because it is very educational. Most of the club guys I know are not only cool to the public- they are usually cooler and kinder than the average citizen. All the stuff that people associate with them(fights,etc) usually happens among themselves or rivals, not the non member citizens . I remember a band I am in played a show at a clubhouse of a 1% club here in the NW--they were beyond cool---however; they had an area with a room that was No Access to us and that was made clear. They said enjoy whatever you want as long as it doesn't include going into that room. My guess would be that was where club business may have been taking place. We respected that and had a great night

Great info👍. We just got home from a week near Orlando. It was hot, humid, and bursts of rain. So happy to be back in SoCal, LOL😅. Enjoy your romantic getaway and cheers to both of you🍻🎉🤩

Happy anniversary bro and the Mrs. Be safe much respect

As a long time East Coast 1%er, your video is pretty straight forward and spot on. We appreciate the respectful education and props to the set. My motto has always been “Educate rather than Subjugate!” So much easier. Respect ✌ Dingus

I solved this etiquette thing years ago after I bought my first Ducati and usually ride alone or with a few friends I can trust. I'm in SoCal where Harleys rule the freeways and sport bikes the canyons where for every Harley you see, are ten higher performing bikes including GS's etc. My only rule is never pass on the right and when passing on the left, get their attention before doing it.

Not personally interested in clubs, and so found your vids sooo helpful! Thank you very much and happy anniversary.

Ride with a SRC for sometime and learned so much about the 1% clubs. We show show respect to everyone and make friends along the way. Great information here!

All the technicalities of MCs really interest me. As a sportbike rider most of this stuff doesn't apply to me but I think the biker culture (cruisers) is quite interesting.

Thanks, I have never run up on a pack, but I had a pack run up on me. Took roughly 15 miles and white knuckles for them to full pass. Had them in front, behind and beside on a two lane.

Nice Video, enjoyed the topic of what to do if you do roll-up . I did hear they had a new change in Stirgus about open containers, for beer and wine , check that out before you get there and you need to have a pass , and a special cup, along with an armband of some kind. Just some info to check out if your go there this year. I just watch a video on you tube about it . they put a no open containers zone in the town for the advent . they will have areas where you can buy the pass, and armband , and special Cup , in order to drink and walk around in the open container zone .

I liked what you said about the children you serve. Bravo! Every child needs to know someone has their best interest in mind. The children are our future. My wife and I are helping raise a family friend's grandson. His mother is fighting addiction, and we nearly lost him to the state. I've grown up along side this family and could not stomach the loss. No relation, and he knows. But to him we will always be grandma and grandpa. Sorry I got off topic, you spoke about something dear to my heart. We all should be doing more for the children.

Thanks for these videos - good information for someone who just wants to have a good time riding without getting drawn into something without realizing it - I see it like coming up on a group of friends in a bar - you don't go running through the middle of them, do you? No, you go around or wait for the chance to say "excuse me" or something so you can get through - just simple courtesy

Been riding motorcycles for...25 years. I ride because I love motorcycles...it's that simple. Sometimes I ride with 2 or 3 other guys, but we don't have this weird need to start a club or get vests...or pay dues...or anything. Clubs take the whole fun out of riding, and I question if they love rules and politics more than they do motorcycles.

Great information. Thanks. Enjoy your weekend 👍

Great advice, I’ve also seen appreciation on the road for respecting MCs. Couple members have also stopped when I was parked on side of the road with bike issues. Met the coolest people on bikes many in MCs but might be also because I try to show respect and not be a dummy

just be aware of what is happening around you, and be respectful. If your club is up to date and active they will know what is going on.

Me personally just show respect and keep my distance. That’s pretty much with everyone unless I feel comfortable with that person or people.

Respect for fellowship and others on the road. If there is any conflict follow your chapter on protocol!

Interesting topic. I might add that if you are returning from a rally and splitting lanes (because it's Sunday and some thousands of motorcycles just joined the already crowded southbound Golden State Freeway from the Love Ride) and a club are suddenly coming up behind you, also splitting lanes, you don't need anyone to tell you: pull back into traffic, let them pass, and don't jump back right behind them. Common sense is often the best rule of the road. If you are intent on showing respect, you'll know what to do.

If I end up being followed by a mc, does that make me the new road captain?

I honestly don't understand why I have to abide by MC rules/culture if I am not in the MC life. I respect their culture and generally keep to myself. 9 out of 10 times I ride alone. I'm not trying to start any trouble, but if they see I am a "Slick Back" or Not wearing colors, why do I need to abide by their rules. Just as much my road as it is theirs. Again, I am asking an honest question here. Not trying to rile anyone up. But I honestly don't bow down to anyone. Never been the type to walk on eggshells for anyone. I just stay away unless you come to me. Can anyone give me a valid argument as to why I have to ask permission on a highway to pass a group? I would obviously pass on the furthest lane away from said group to show I am NOT rolling up on them with any ill intentions.

Thanks for the informative video. Happy Anniversary to you and Mrs. Monkey!

Great video as always really enjoy these educational videos lol

I saw your "Patch" video just in time. Background I've been riding 40+ w/o mc association. My son was a hang around with a local 98 chapter for a while and recently moved out of statebut not before we attended a bike nite at a local dive where I was introduced to certain members in good standing. On a trip home he brought me a Lone Wolf patch and had it sewn onto my vest. Thanks to this video I will NOT be wearing said cut at a Club Sponsored event this evening. Too old to fight,too tired to run......

Had this experience with a 1% org in Michigan….Tailgunner was not having anyone close - I just got off at a different exit and took a different route….

Happy Anniversary Be safe, have a great time

Thanks for the tips on rolling up on patched groups. Been riding since 06, roughly 80k miles on my Harley and have only ran into this twice in the last year and half. Both times ran into groups close to home in KS. First time I didn't know anything about not passing them on the 4 lane highway, but I did and apparently set them off. They flew around me and slowed back down. Luckily for me, I looked in the mirror and seen a state trooper in my mirror. They did wave me to follow when they got off the toll road. I proceeded past and went to my destination. Last year at Sturgis I camped next to a motorcycle safety instructor and we talked about this and what to do if I run into it again. This year about 100 miles from home on my way back from Sturgis, I ran into a group of 2 patches and a prospect. I sat in the LH lane I was already in and they waved me by. Both times it was the same 1% patch. Wasn't sure if that was the correct protocol or not. So thank you for the info!

Living in Southern Cal I have been around many 1% MC's on the road here and riding up on them has never been an issue you have to be doing over 90 to even get close, its usually me moving over and watching them pass. It is usually what I would consider the most dominant club and certainly one you would not screw around with.

My Crew is not a 1%, but we run under Protocol so we do our best to be on good terms with all the other Clubs, especially the Dominant of the given region. Leads to some interesting situations, like being good to fly in some areas and being No Fly in another area, both areas under THE SAME MC but different Chapters. Like you said, we don't do territory so we are walking in THEIR world, respect where it is earned. Right now my Crew in our region is under Be Aware Flight Rules; No riding alone while Patched, be aware of your surroundings, etc. because of potential conflicts with a couple of MCs (supporters of a rival MC of our Dom) trying to push in. So far no issues have occurred for my Crew, knock on wood. Good stuff Monkey. Keep up the good work.

Happy anniversary! Have a great time.

Thanks for the info, usually when in the U.S am driving a fast car and now know what to do when I come up on a group.

Much respect for the wording "for the kids we SERVE" 👍

You are hilarious! You’d make a great comedian. You have an excellent delivery style.

been riding since 1967, was a member of a club that was patched over by a dominate. im 74 still on 2's you give good advice. i learned if you want respect show respect it goes both ways.

I like the channel and content. I've been riding since I was 16 and I am 49 now. I've only ever had issues with a certain club (13's) and I have no idea how the problem ever become what it was. However videos like this help explain some things that I otherwise would have not known. Thank you for doing this it's appreciated here in Gettysburg Pa.

Remember the shootings at the Canadian Parliament and War Memorial back in 2014? Because of the uptick in terrorist actions towards Canadian military at the time, we were under orders to go to and from work in civilian clothes for a couple of weeks. It was really weird. RIP Corporal Nathan Cirillo. Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent (RIP) was killed just a couple of days before in a targeted hit and run in Saint-Jean-Sur-Richelieu home of Basic Military training for both Non-Commisioned Members (Enlisted) and Officers for the Canadian Armed Forces. I thought it was pretty cowardly for us to not wear our uniforms. It would’ve made more sense to arm us.

Congratulations Monkey, My condolences Mrs. Monkey on your anniversary! RESPECT and COMMON SENSE? I ride alone. I don't ride fast enough to over take groups. 1% clubs usually travel quite quickly!!! I do not wear a watch. I don't take myself to seriously. I'm bald so getting wind in my hair means my beard. PGR and Rolling Thunder are the only groups I ride with for our troops or the Gold Star Families. When I see groups come up behind me, I pull off and let them by. Veteran clubs or groups I stand and salute, mostly because many are flying Ol' Glory! You are on your freedom machine, relax and don't let BS ruin your time. Most times I find scenery worth getting a closer look at. Mr. Monkey, Thank You to you and your Brothers and Sisters! Children are precious cargo and our ultimate responsibility. Pilomiya! Hoka Hey

You know what - this is the 4th time I came across one of your videos and watched the whole thing. Interesting videos - cool channel. 🤔💭……….. I’m gonna subscribe.

We're heading to WDW on Sunday, will get there Monday. Happy Anniversary!

Happy Anniversary ! Enjoy the adult time.

In Wildwood NJ a few years ago there were "no colors" signs in some bars and restaurants, but they were ignored by some.

Very informative. Useful information to stay alive and be respectful.

Like your channel and style of vlogging. 350K miles of riding experience and never had an issue with a MC club. I have noticed in my travels that some MC clubs demand respect, but don't give it. Amazing concept, isn't it?

Show respect and you will receive respect in return, it’s easy doesn’t cost anything and it’s a lesson to employ in life.

I think it humorous that anyone would ask permission to pass a group of total strangers on the freeway. If I wanted to follow arbitrary rules I would join a club, since I dont like people telling me what to do I dont. I sure as hell aint asking permission to pass, especially if its multi-lane. If your in a pack, preserve your road discipline and keep it tight, then no one should be able to cut in. Respect? Wheres my respect as a freedom loving American and leaving me alone if you dont know me? Reminds me of high school...

Happy Anniversary enjoy your weekend 👍

As always, great advice.

I respect 1%ers when I see them BUT to be fair if you’re on a 600cc+ sportbike they literally can’t catch you anyways lol

Yeah so the law, the actual law, says I can pass as long as I do so safely and appropriately and it isn't based on a permission slip from a "tailgunner". So I guess my question is how do you reconcile the two? You don't own the road and neither do I.

In my experience the 1%ers will be travelling over the speed limit anyway so if you are passing then you are going well over the speed limit. Given that cops watch for these groups there is a fair chance they'll pick you off because it's easier than taking on the group. BTW I don't pass a group riding in formation. I'll hang back.

Guessing you're B.A.C.A. No need to verify or deny but I have a lot of respect for those guys. Great organization.

I was riding on a 2 lane interstate with another bike and we came up on a long line of bikes riding in formation. Turns out they were Pagan’s and there must have been 100+. There was a truck following them. I figured he was part of the group because he was tight on them, like 5 feet away. My first thought was amazement, this was cool, you could hear them a mile away, before I could even see them, literally. We rolled up on them slowly. I was trying to figure out wtf was going on, all the while being struck by the awesomeness of it. The sound was unreal. Meanwhile, I’m an professional engineer, weekend-warrior, no patch, no cuts, no idea about any of this. And I’m on my BMW. My top goal at this point is not to get shanked. They were riding about 5 over and after about 15 minutes, as cool as it was, I wanted to pass them and be on my way. There was an open lane, but something in the back of my head was telling me to chill and stay back. Trust me, there was a line of cars/motorcycles behind us, probably thinking the same thing. Another 10 minutes go by and they pulled off, in formation, to a rest stop. That’s where I saw the Pagan patches, as I road on. Question: should I have passed them? I wanted to be respectful (and stay healthy) but they were riding slow.

Like the channel lot of good information hopefully 🙏 I can go to Sturgis some day

Hi Da Monk. Thanks again for sharing your wisdom.

Live free and ride. Make your own rules, if you get in altercations, fight. If people crying about how you ride that's there problem. Live fee people.