What struck me even more were the riders themselves. After the show we hung out at the Spoke and I got to meet the cast of characters that would ultimately make me love and truly appreciate this industry. I didn't know much about motorcycles or the industry before I met Scott and Tara. All I knew (or thought I knew) was what bikes I thought looked cool and that a lot of people wore a whole lot of leather. I didn't know anything about the spirit, personality, or passion of the riders and builders. I couldn't even begin to comprehend their devotion. There are a lot of subcultures out there that thrive on their "uniqueness" and shun outsiders every chance they get for not being like them. I figured rally-goers would snub me and make me prove myself before they paid me any attention. My plan was to stay quiet and just absorb it all, and I did. Sitting at a picnic table at the Broken Spoke, I got schooled.
I expected to hear lots of shop-talk about how the industry is changing, where the money is going, the old vs. the new, who's got it right and who's got it wrong. But that isn't what the Spoke conversation was all about. I found myself sitting in the middle of a group of the most eclectic, eccentric, genuine people I have ever met. Listening to the stories of Brother Speed, Jay Lightning, and Bean're made me feel like I grew up riding. Every detail was relayed with a charismatic sense of nostalgia and a whole lot of heart. I could tell instantly that these people really got it. For them this culture, this lifestyle, is not about the cash or the prestige or any of the things that seem to have muddied the waters through the years. For them the driving force is purity, heart, and a real, tangible love to ride, and their enthusiasm is contagious.
I started to feel like I really belonged to the community; the generosity and companionship of Jay Allen and the guys from Cook Customs was unmatched. Within a few hours they had taken me in like a little sister and made me feel like I belonged there. I honestly never thought I would enjoy living behind a biker bar in South Carolina, but I learned more about motorcycles, the industry, and life in that week than I did in four years of college. Before long I was roller skating through the Spoke like I'd been there my whole life.
SW - Therein lies the story. Unbeknownst to me, this article would not be me preaching about my bikes and my style, my opinions, or the direction I see this industry moving toward. Instead the story unfolded itself before my eyes. I feel today, just as I saw Natalie do, that anyone who considers themselves even remotely intuitive in thisindustry, no matter how good you are or aren't, how well you fabricate or not, how many people see your bikes in magazines or don't, you should be so fortunate to have the opportunity to spend time with these people to get a real appreciation about what all of this should mean to you. The ironic thing behind this whole story is that you need not be privileged or on the A-List to join these individuals-simply show up and shake a hand. And out of the purest and most genuine honesty, you will be allowed the privilege of getting to know these people because that's who they are and that's what they do. My hat goes off to them at every level; I have utmost respect for these individuals. I think everyone in this industry should take a minute or two to chat with them so you can be reminded of why you got involved in the first place. It's all right in front of you; all you have to do is open your eyes.Sources
Leroy-Thompson Choppers
(440) 266-1635
www.leroy-thompsonchoppers.com