Outlaw Bikers’ Colors: Earning the 3-Piece Patch

Written by Tim Kessel

Tuesday, 29 June 2010 11:18

The mystique of the outlaw motorcycle gang is alive and well.  The subculture known as the
one-percenters evokes images of violence, loyalty and criminal behavior.  First, let’s be clear
that the majority of motorcycle clubs do not exhibit criminal behavior.  Further, not all serious
gang (or club) members are one-percenters.  In fact, the label one-percenter came from an
AMA response to biker violence in the late 40s stating that 99% of all bikers are law abiding
citizens; and only 1% exhibit anti-social or criminal behavior.

The most identifying feature of the outlaw biker culture is the 3-piece patch worn on the
member's back.  Here is a quick explanation of the significance of the patch or “colors”. 

Earning a place in an outlaw motorcycle club is a process often defined by violent or criminal
acts.  Further, outlaw motorcycle clubs require total allegiance from their members.  The club
takes priority over the member’s job, outside friends, and even family.  A member who does not
exhibit total adherence to the “code” can be severely beaten or even killed.

An individual who is just “hanging around” a gang is awarded no part of the patch.  The process
of earning colors starts with a “prospect” being sponsored by a full member.  At that point, the
prospect is given the lower “rocker”.  The rockers are the upper and lower curved portions of the
three-piece patch. The lower rocker indicates the location of the club.  Later, the other two
portions of the patch may, or may not be earned.  The other two parts are the upper rocker that
states the club’s name, and the center logo patch.  In some gangs, the last two parts of the
patch are earned at the same time; in others, the process is separated.

As was stated earlier, the actions that earn the patch may be criminal or violent.  A biker who
does not display total loyalty to the club will not earn the patch.  Further, virtually all outlaw
gangs require a unanimous vote of the local membership for a prospect to become a full
member.

Because of the crime and territorial violence associated with the wearing of club colors, some
local or state law enforcement agencies have placed restrictions on the wearing of certain
patches.  The colors can actually be permanently confiscated if worn in public.

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Outlaw Bikers’ Colors: Earning the 3-Piece Patch

Written by Tim Kessel

Tuesday, 29 June 2010 11:18

It should be noted that the some non-outlaw motorcycle clubs have adopted the 3-piece patch. 
Christian and veteran motorcycle clubs now sometimes wear a three piece logo.  The difference
is that these patches typically don’t have a specific location in the bottom rocker. 

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Outlaw Bikers’ Colors: Earning the 3-Piece Patch

Written by Tim Kessel

Tuesday, 29 June 2010 11:18

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