Owing to their inclination towards pushing legal boundaries, prospective members of this exclusive motorcycle club cannot have a history of working in law enforcement, prison guards included. The club adheres to a rigid ethos of embracing freedom, which can be challenging if a fellow rider is a former officer. This strategy also reduces the likelihood of internal betrayals.

The Hells Angels form a close-knit, secretive fraternity that prohibits any interactions with media personnel. This approach helps avoid any leakage of information about the group or its individual members to the public sphere. It indeed piques curiosity about the sort of secrets they might be guarding.

As an initiated member, thoughts of switching allegiance to another biker gang should be promptly dismissed given the potentially grave consequences. Pledging loyalty to Hells Angels is a lifelong dedication, perceived as a commitment surpassing even the sanctity of marriage.

The Hells Angels maintain a staunch policy against female membership, aiming to preserve the masculine nature of their fraternity. However, this doesn’t imply a total absence of women. Indeed, partners and girlfriends can join the riders on their trips and at their gatherings, as long as they are fully cognizant of, and compliant with, the gang’s way of life.

Even though the Hells Angels espouse a lifestyle of freedom, it does not grant carte blanche to do as they please. The organization enforces a rigid policy of abstaining from illegal narcotics. Breaching this regulation results in instantaneous expulsion from the group.

Discussing a brother who has gone missing is completely out of bounds, even amongst fellow members, within the Hells Angels. Given the nature of their activities, members disappearing isn’t rare, but any conversation regarding this is strictly disallowed. There’s a pervasive culture of silence about these matters, which ensures you won’t pry any information from them, a situation that aligns precisely with their preferences.

Historically, the Hells Angels have been largely composed of white individuals. Although many sections have evolved over time and adopted a more inclusive approach, a significant number of charters still uphold their “legacy” by maintaining a bias towards their past.

The Hells Angels greatly value their signature vests, treating them as almost sacred elements of their uniform. Their attachment to these vests is so profound that some might risk the safety of their wives before compromising their vests. If a member is arrested, they would entrust their vest to a fellow member until they are released.

When groups take to the streets, they can become quite large. Consequently, charters establish a specific order for riders. The charter president and the road captain always assume the lead, while the ranking and seniority of each member determine their position within the group. If a member gets pulled over or needs to make a stop, every member halts to ensure the established order remains undisturbed.

While members may not always adhere to societal laws, it is crucial to emphasize that they must still abide by their own set of rules. These rules are non-negotiable and any violation will result in serious consequences. Minor infractions may lead to tattoo removal as a form of punishment, whereas more severe transgressions can result in immediate expulsion.

Throughout their history, the Hells Angels have maintained a steadfast tradition of exclusively riding Harley Davidson motorcycles. Although certain charters have become more flexible regarding this policy, the majority of them continue to adhere to it in order to foster a sense of uniformity. Additionally, Harleys are widely regarded as one of the most masculine bikes in existence. Nonetheless, it should be noted that there are occasional exceptions to this rule.

Since 1948, Harley Davidson motorcycles have been synonymous with the Hells Angels, serving as their signature bikes. However, certain groups within the organization have implemented policies that permit the use of non-Harley bikes, but with a strict condition. The alternative bikes must be of American manufacture. Therefore, if you happen to be a member of the gang and are contemplating the idea of getting a Suzuki or any similar brand, it is advised that you reconsider your choice.

Individuals aspiring to join the exclusive one-percenter club must initially attract attention. These aspiring members, known as “prospects,” work closely with existing club members and are assigned a range of tasks, ranging from organizing meetings to engaging in activities that may be regarded as questionable. By fulfilling their assigned tasks precisely as instructed, prospects demonstrate their competence and suitability for becoming fully initiated members.

Even among hardcore bikers, there are moral boundaries when it comes to their treatment of women. While female companionship is often associated with being a Hells Angel, members of the club are obligated to exercise self-control. Engaging in violent behavior or exploiting women will result in severe repercussions, underscoring the importance of obtaining consent in all interactions involving women.

Similar to inner-city gangs, certain chapters of the Hells Angels exert significant influence over extensive regions in the United States. These areas fall within the jurisdiction of the Hells Angels, strictly prohibiting the presence or activities of any other motorcycle group, unless they are simply passing through. Although conflicts between rival groups are not frequent, gangs will employ every means possible to maintain their control and dominance over their territories.

Once an individual becomes a Hells Angel, they are forever a part of the club. Retirement is a foreign concept once initiated, and members are bound to their Hells Angels family. The official Hells Angels website states that there is no notion of retired members within the club, a sentiment that has persisted throughout its history. Even in the event of a member’s passing, fellow Hells Angels will unite to pay tribute and honor their fallen comrade.

Individuals who decide to join the Hells Angels must possess a profound passion for motorcycles, as it becomes the singular and enduring focus of their existence. Members commit to a life entirely centered around motorcycles, with an estimated annual travel distance of approximately 1,200 miles, always in the company of their fellow riders. This lifestyle not only exemplifies their unwavering dedication to the ideals of freedom but also signifies their unyielding loyalty to their foremost love: biking.

If you aspire to become a member of the Hells Angels, you will face the challenge of finding the list of requirements as they are intentionally undisclosed. The Hells Angels’ website explicitly mentions that if you need to inquire about how to join, it suggests that you wouldn’t comprehend the answer. The process of joining can be lengthy, often involving establishing a strong connection with existing members. While there is no set formula, being accepted typically involves a vote by the members. If the majority votes in favor, you will be officially welcomed into the ranks of the Hells Angels.

“Big Pete” James is among the many Hells Angels leaders who have firsthand experience and insight into the confrontations and hidden dealings within the club. However, what is not commonly acknowledged is that a life involved in criminal activities also requires a deep understanding of it. Originating from Chicago, James held an admiration for Al Capone, and he found that many of his fellow Hells Angels shared similar sentiments. Reflecting on his past, James admitted, “I had specific aspirations, and my role models were not ordinary heroes. They were infamous figures.”

It is worth noting that the Hells Angels logo intentionally lacks the proper apostrophe, which may appear grammatically incorrect. This deliberate omission signifies the group’s disregard for conventional grammar rules and their overall carefree and rebellious nature. Despite being a small detail, it serves as a symbolic representation of their nonconformist and tough image.

When it comes to the Hells Angels, there is no room for slacking off. Even if you have a personal commitment like a wedding anniversary, when a meeting or event is scheduled, careful consideration must be given to prioritize club commitments. While there may be occasional exceptions, consistently attending all gatherings and activities demonstrates unwavering loyalty and dedication to the brotherhood.

Attendance is not only compulsory, but Hells Angels members must also adhere to specific guidelines, commonly referred to as Robert’s Rules of Order, without any exceptions. These rules ensure that meetings follow a structured agenda, questions are posed prior to the meeting’s commencement, and interruptions while someone is speaking are strictly prohibited. Violating these rules typically incurs a fine of $100 as a consequence.

Contrary to initial impressions, the Hells Angels are committed to avoiding a negative reputation. They purposefully position themselves as a one-percenter club for a specific reason, aiming to minimize any unfavorable public perception. Consequently, every member bears the responsibility of conducting themselves in a manner that aligns with the group’s upstanding image within the community.

To bolster their reputation (and dilute the perception of the club as violent or overly macho), the Hells Angels will occasionally take part in charity events. For one, Hells Angels hosts Toys for Tots drives every year, gifting toys to children whose parents can’t afford them. Another common charity event the club promotes includes allowing people with motorcycles to ride with them for an entire day.

In addition to organizing charity events, the Hells Angels place great importance on being highly approachable when interacting with the public. Contrary to being aloof or distant towards outsiders, all members are expected to demonstrate a willingness to help those in need. It is not uncommon for the group to pause their rides and offer assistance if they come across someone experiencing car trouble on the roadside.

The specific dress code varies among different charters, and members are expected to comply with the dress code established by their respective chapter. The prevalent dress code typically entails wearing all-black attire, with the exception of classic American blue jeans. It is worth noting that wearing shorts is generally not permitted, unless belonging to a particularly lenient charter.

Similar to the process of becoming a member, establishing a Hells Angels charter is an arduous and time-consuming undertaking. It can require years, or even decades, of dedicated effort. Prospective groups must accumulate extensive experience together in the community and foster a deep sense of brotherhood among potential members. Only when these conditions are met will a group be considered for acceptance into the Hells Angels.

In order to maintain a strong sense of unity, Hells Angels members demonstrate solidarity by pulling over together if any member of their convoy is stopped by the police. This action serves multiple purposes. It can be seen as an intimidation tactic, indicating that the group stands together in the face of any perceived threat. Additionally, it sends a clear message to authorities that targeting one member will result in collective support and protection from the entire group. This practice acts as a safeguard, particularly in situations where law enforcement may have a history of overstepping boundaries.

While there may be some evolving practices within certain charters, traditionally, only members of the Hells Angels are permitted to wear official Hells Angels-branded merchandise. This encompasses various items adorned with Hells Angels motifs, extending beyond insignias and patches. Impersonating or wearing such gear without proper membership is considered disrespectful and will not be tolerated by any Hells Angels members who encounter it.

As members ascend through the ranks, they earn specific patches that symbolize their status within the Hells Angels. These patches hold significant authority, and akin to military customs, senior members must be accorded the utmost respect. The importance of these patches is so profound within the group that some members would even refuse medical professionals from cutting through their clothing during emergencies in order to preserve the integrity of the patches.

Engaging in unauthorized linking to the Hells Angels website can result in severe consequences. The website explicitly states that obtaining prior written consent from the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club is necessary before establishing and operating any links to their site. Moreover, the club reserves the right to withdraw such consent at any time at their discretion. It is crucial to adhere to these guidelines to avoid potential repercussions.

While the primary focus of Hells Angels members is riding hard and living freely, they are also encouraged to participate in community activities on occasion. This involvement has occasionally included working as concert security. The tradition originated in 1961 when George Harrison of the Beatles requested the assistance of a London-based Hells Angels group to provide additional security for one of their concerts. The arrangement proved effective, leading to subsequent requests from other bands over the years. However, it is worth noting that there have been instances where such collaborations did not unfold as intended.

The Hells Angels’ involvement in providing security at the Altamont Speedway concert in 1969 tarnished their public image significantly. The event, featuring various renowned music acts including the Rolling Stones, descended into chaos. Drunken Hells Angels members engaged in violent altercations with concertgoers, exacerbating the already tense atmosphere. However, the most tragic moment occurred when a young man named Meredith Hunter was killed by a Hells Angels member during the concert. This incident remains a prominent stain on the reputation of the Hells Angels and is often referenced when discussing their history.

There were indeed significant concerns surrounding the decision to employ the Hells Angels as security at the Altamont Speedway concert. These concerns appeared to be validated when an armed man named Meredith Hunter pulled out a gun in the midst of the crowd. A Hells Angels member swiftly intervened and took down the armed assailant, but another member responded by fatally stabbing Hunter. While this incident was eventually ruled as an act of self-defense, resulting in a reduced sentence, it raised serious doubts about the wisdom of using individuals with unpredictable behavior to maintain peace and security at such events. The tragedy at Altamont became a pivotal moment that called into question the effectiveness and potential risks associated with relying on groups like the Hells Angels for concert security.

The Hells Angels have been known to take legal action against unauthorized use of their name and imagery. A notable case involved a lawsuit filed against Disney for their use of the Hells Angels’ name and logo in the movie “Wild Hogs.” The club sought to protect their intellectual property rights and maintain control over their brand representation. The lawsuit served as a demonstration of their vigilance in safeguarding their image and ensuring that their trademarks are used appropriately and with permission.

After World War 2, the Hells Angels were officially founded in California when veterans from the war joined to establish a club that would allow them a life of freedom. Their name was derived from the Flying Tigers (who were also called the Hells Angels squadron) who operated in China during the war. This would mark the beginning of a global organization.

Hells Angels mission offered a liberating way of life to many post-WW2, and as a result, numerous charters emerged all over California. In places like Oakland and San Francisco, groups of like-minded individuals came together under the Hells Angel name. Most of these groups were formed without knowing each other, and it wasn’t until the 1950s that they began officially organizing themselves into a single entity.

During the 1950s and 1960s, there were major cultural shifts happening in America, and Hells Angels were at the heart of it. They became the cornerstone of the counterculture movement, and they threw huge support towards bands like The Rolling Stones, The Grateful Dead, and more.

Sonny Barger was the founder of the Oakland charter, and he is Hells Angels royalty. He’s in his 80s now, and even now, eh’s a highly respected member who has used his influence to appear in movies, TV shows, and even authored books.

Sons of Anarchy was a hugely popular show during its run. The show’s creator, Kurt Sutter, was inspired by the Hells Angels motorcycle club, and he took great care to make the show as realistic as possible. He even went so far as to cast real-life Hells Angels members, including David Labrava and Sonny Barger.

The show was praised for its complex characters, its gritty realism, and its exploration of themes such as family, loyalty, and betrayal. It ran for seven seasons and ended in 2014.

The Hells Angels motorcycle club is not just an American phenomenon. The first international chapter was established in Auckland, New Zealand, in 1961, and the club has since expanded to include chapters in over 29 countries on five continents.