Bonneville America Forums Forums Off Topic Discussion Forums Lounge Brit Iron Rebels? FYI

After reading Soren and Dwights remarks I decided to test the theory. Maybe they turned a new leaf as some of their members own Amreicas and Speedmasters.I kinda wanted to give them the Benifit of the doubt. Thinking that they can give us credit for our love of British Iron. Other than the specific "NO CRUSIER" Policy our bike technically qualify. Here was the corespondence between myself and the member guy:(Start at the bottom)

I've gotten into this with many other "cruiser" owners before, so I'll just give you our "rules" to read through. Bottom line - we don't let CRUISERS into the club, whether you consider them retro or not. There are many other clubs out there that cater to "cruisers" (e.g., RAT).

Concept of the BIR :
Our goal is to create a community of enthusiasts who share in the love of the Rocker/Hooligan and British motorcycle culture and style of the 50's and 60's. The BIR is not an outlaw motorcycle club, 1% club, or a cult (ok, maybe a cult). So, if you are looking for any of those ideals, you've come to the wrong place!

The BIR does not claim any territory. The BIR one piece patch with the word "Worldwide" simp ly represents that we are a group of enthusiasts the world over; it's is not a claim of territory. The BIR are citizens of the motorcycling world. We are not a gang. The BIR is not an exclusive club. If you also ride a Honda, feel free to join a Honda club as well.

How the BIR is Run:
The BIR is a club that was borne on the internet. It is not the typical way that traditional clubs are formed or operated. Most clubs begin local and, many times, will eventually initiate a forum or website. We have begun worldwide, first on the internet and through contact with other enthusiasts and then have formed smaller, more local collections of enthusiasts (we like to call them clans). However, the overall club is still governed by the same rules and concepts. Worldwide information is passed along on the BIR forum and website. We consider this concept t o be an ongoing experiment; however, the camaraderie is obviously a proven ingredient. There have been growing pains along the way and there is sure to be more for some time. We all do our best!

How you Become a Member:
1. Criteria - you must own a classic or neo classic British motorcycle. No cruiser bikes. No modern sport bikes.*
2. You must find a member in good standing in your area to be your sponsor. Your sponsor is responsible for accessing your potential membership. During a period of time, it is imperative to actually meet your sponsor in person. Refer to your sponsor as Jesus, for your sponsor must intercede for your sins! (ok, I'm kidding on the last part!)
3. You must participate on The BIR forum, so other members can get to know you. After a period of time, you're membership qualifications will be voted on by the membership at large. ;The idea of a sponsor is to have someone who is behind you to affirm your character and speak on your behalf as a candidate.
Note: If you live in an area where no other members reside, it is possible for you to start your own clan of The BIR. Criteria is 3 or more qualified riders looking to form. Rules for starting a BIR clan are available by request. If neither option is available to you, you can become a charter member and participate in the forum. If you eventually make a BIR rally or ride, you can become eligible for a full active, card carrying membership.

Forum Respect:
This club is not open to the public. You are solely invited here by a member or are granted access through your request. We encourage you to post often on many subjects and we hope that your opinion is carried with you. Feel free to express yourself and feel free to use the language that you normally use. This is how we all get to know each other. But, remember, it is a private forum and we are not governed by anyone but ourselves. In other words, it's our world here. Like it or stay out!

A further word of warning: please do not embarrass yourself or the member that invited you here by being disrespectful or disruptive in your posts. If you do, you will be asked to leave. You might say "Well, I was just stating my opinion!" Your opinion is greatly appreciated; however, if your opinion is aimed as a personal attack on a member or simply thrown in order to cause a problem, expect the other members of this club to jump you just like they would if you were mouthing off at our club house - because it IS our club house! If this happens, you will generally be asked to leave. There are no lawyers here to protect your rights to be in this club. &n bsp;It is private and you get along with the other members or you are locked out. Very simple!

Things You Should Do Right Away:
1. Introduce yourself in the (ready for this?) "Introduce Yourself" folder! Tell us who you are, how/where you heard about us, who invited you, what you ride, and so forth.
2. Update your profile. Your profile can be accessed by clicking on your username once you're in the forum. Include things about you so folks know a little about you. We all wish we could tailer the profile questions to better suit our club, but we have to work with what Delphi has given us. Either in your profile or in your signature, I suggest that you include what you ride . Just like some people get to know each other at a dog park by their dogs, we sometimes get to know you by your bike. "Yeah, you know Larry, the guy with the '64 BSA!" That type of thing . Include where you are from ( e.g., city, state, country, etc.). This helps people hook up with you. Try to be as visible as you can. Not so you can be judged, but so people understand who you are. In many cases, all we have is your words and profile to understand who you are as a person.

Philosophy of the Bike Rules:
The BIR is a testament to the 50's and 60's Rocker/Hooligan motorcycle lifestyle and how that is reflected today in this culture. It is not exactly like the scene in the 50's and 60's. It is a nod to the past, with our club's "interpretation" of it today. It is it's own scene and it's own culture. It is also ever evolving.

Some folks believe that the modern sport bike craze is a natural progression of the ideals of the Rockers of the 50's and 60's. They may very well be. Ask an old Rocker for yourself. I have ask ed several and the responses are varied among them.

Many will argue that the Rockers of the 50's and 60's would have merged toward modern sport bikes had they had the chance. Well, some of those Rockers are still riding motorcycles. Some of them stopped riding, some of them ride modern bikes, and some of them still ride and maintain old bikes only. Some of them are still active in clubs that reflect what they now ride. Obviously, many of them have passed away. Some may actually be among us in this forum and club! Overall, all the respect in the world is given to them, but we are our own thing these days.

* Types of Bikes in the BIR:
We are not an equal opportunity British bike club! This club represents a certain type of rider. Classic British and neo classic styled British bikes leaning toward the retro cafe style bikes, and also simply the cla ssic lines of the British Rocker bikes of the 50's and 60's.

NO cruiser bikes, NO modern sport bikes, NO exceptions!

What about Choppers? Do you need to ask? Okay, a good Rockabilly Style Bobber is always nice.

The BIR is not an antique motorcycle enthusiast group. Some members are antique motorcycle enthusiasts, but The BIR is not in any way based on that criteria. There are other clubs for that.

To Sum it All Up :
The BIR should be a fun thing and a positive addition to your life. The BIR is not out to cram the gospel of the Hooligan bike culture down people's throats. These are simply the bike styles and lifestyles that we identify with. Enjoy the road!

The BIR Staff

----- Original Message -----
From: Shane Price
To: 'NCBonnie'
Sent: Monday, March 19, 2007 2:47 PM
Subject: RE: I'm interested in becoming a Brit Iron Rebel!


I have seen many pics of Speedmasters and Old School Choppers on your site. What is wrong with cruisers? Your website says "To become a BIR member, you must currently own a British motorcycle (true classic or retro 1), represent the BIR in a respectable and appropriate manner, and pay the annual dues ($20US per year)." The America is considered retro. Isn't it? I'm having a hard time understanding, I would be your first Utah member and could bring more to your cause. I have many friends who ride Triumphs, BSA's, Guzzi's and other Euro bikes that could add too your member base. If you could, let me know I would appreciate it.

Thanks,

Shane
-----Original Message-----
From: NCBonnie [mailto:ncbonnie@britironrebels.com]
Sent: Monday, March 19, 2007 10:34 AM
To: Shane Price
Subject: Re: I'm interested in becoming a Brit Iron Rebel!


We're a no cruiser club.
----- Original Message -----
From: Shane Price
To: 'NCBonnie'
Sent: Monday, March 19, 2007 2:13 PM
Subject: RE: I'm interested in becoming a Brit Iron Rebel!


What do you mean? I have a Triumph. I don't understand.
-----Original Message-----
From: NCBonnie [mailto:ncbonnie@britironrebels.com]
Sent: Monday, March 19, 2007 10:03 AM
To: Shane Price
Subject: Re: I'm interested in becoming a Brit Iron Rebel!


Nice. Let us know when you get a qualifying bike.
----- Original Message -----
From: Shane Price
To: ncbonnie@britironrebels.com
Sent: Monday, March 19, 2007 1:12 PM
Subject: I'm interested in becoming a Brit Iron Rebel!


I guess I'm supposed to tell you about myself. I live in Salt Lake City, Utah and own a 02 Bonneville America. Her name is Lucy. I have attached some pics for your viewing pleasure. I Really want the new Scrambler or a Truxton 900 but have yet to find the funds to purchase one. My Uncle has resently moved to Alaska and has a 67 BSA and a Rudge I am trying to talk him out of since he has left them here in Utah. Thats about it. Let me know what I need to do.

Me and my friends have a little shop we play in. Check out our Website: www.bonnevillains.com


Thanks,

Shane

I like the idea and respect the wishes of this group but I still don't understand the grudge on our bikes. The America was deisgned after the " Old School" bobbers and Choppers of the 50's 60's and 70's.

These guys need to get a life or something.
I wonder if they allow Thairumphs?

Don't know much about these elitist, but I would still expect them to stop and lend some help to a broken down motorsicklist, no matter how high their nose it up their rear end. I'm sure they have all the fun they can handle in their little click without us soiling there tradition and embarrassing them in front of their friends. We get along in our click, don't we?

OH HOW POMPAS THEY CAN BE. NOW I'm Offended! I guess I'm not "Cool" enough. HAHAAHA!!!

I know what you're saying about RAT, as I've had the same experience(s) with them (i.e., either you own a sportbike or a Tiger). Heh, well we're certainly far from a "biker gang" and all of our members are down to earth. We're just not open to "any" type of bike, whether people "think it should fit" or not. Like I said, lemme know when you get a cool bike.
----- Original Message -----
From: Shane Price
To: 'NCBonnie'
Sent: Monday, March 19, 2007 4:10 PM
Subject: RE: I'm interested in becoming a Brit Iron Rebel!


RAT is free for the first year. Utah has a good sized Rat group but the seem to turn their nose a little as they all seem to own Tigers. I still think the old Brit Iron is sweet and do share a passion for it. Either way, have a good day! I do not want to be in a biker gang. I just see a good opportunity to network and find new people to ride with.

Thanks Anyway,

Personally guys. Its their club with their rules. If that excludes us, then so be it. Its their club. I'm not put out in any way.

Quote:

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We're just not open to "any" type of bike, whether people "think it should fit" or not. Like I said, lemme know when you get a cool bike.

---

I dont have a problem with this. Though i do think we have cool bikes. If it doesnt fit in their club house. Their loss, not mine.

Besides, I'm happy with this little club we got here.

I'm in it...well as soon as I finish the applicant stuff I am

Haha...that might change things. One interesting aspect about the application process is that you hafta meet up with a member before you gain member status. It's their way of weeding out potential members who might create problems within the community.

I sent them a pic of Janet's T100 in an email about joining. Be interested to hear what they say.....

they'll let you in...but might be surprised when you show up on your BA

Now that would be a hoot!

Phil,

They'll have you, as long as you own an upright rear control bike. Maybe if I move my forward controls back, slap on some cafe' bars and grow a pompador I'll get in! Screw it, I am not going to beg to be apart of a group that thinks their tooooo cool. I with you Dwight, NO THANKS!

I wonder if they rumble with the Squares?

I am staying out of this, this time. Except that the first time it came up I had an email exchange battle similar to yours. I think that was a couple years ago.

I know a couple guys with T100's that are in. Neither one of them don't understand why they don't allow our bikes in and think it's really stupid.

Soren

Ok... just one more thing... (you all knew I couldn't shut my mouth too much on this one for long)...
The truth of the matter is that we are just too rebellious for them. They can't handle the thought that some people are almost like absolute anarchists when it comes to motorcycles. In their eyes it is just enough rebellion to have a parallel twin, but to have a cruiser that runs a p-twin is just too much for their minds to handle. (Warning 80's references next) It is almost like a club of geeks that say they like punk because they like the Ramones, but in no way could they ever listen to D.R.I, Minor Threat or MDC, it is just waaayyy too punk and tooo scaaaarrryy for them.

But, the real truth is that most of the actual members really don't care of we were to join or not, it's the sissy stuck-up geeks (Shane, think Draper or East Bench) at the top that are too scared of us.

So, they can have their little exclusive "club". We don't need it. We've got something better... family.

Ok... now I'll keep quiet...

Soren

Soren! I had no Idea you were and Old School Punkrocker!!!!
I was in The Gutter Crew HC near Orange County. MDC is one of my favorite bands. Thats sick!!! Ever heard of a band from the late 80's called Cantankerous? They were my some of my best friends.

I was/am in an old school punk/hardcore band called The Functional Idiots. I love all that old punk hardcore,sh!t I'mm gonna whip out some old cassettes tonite!

Hey Shane, I went through almost exactly this same dialogue with BIR about 6months back, and though I think they're knobheads in some ways, as Moe and Phil say, t'is their club, plain and simple. I even went so far to invite the guy (not sure if it's this guy, name doesn't sound right though) to visit our site, but doubt he ever bothered. Hey, don't sweat it, their loss!!

Soren started the process along time ago. I joined in the fight of emails because at the time our bikes were refered to as "classic" styles by Triumph's own literature. After many heated emails, I got an email from their leader, telling me that our bikes would never be included and to stop waiting their time. The head "hooligan" was Ricky Rocket (drummer) from the poser band, Poison. Even his bio shot was a big haired head shot of him hugging on his tank. So my final email adressed to him was simply " Once a poser, always a Poser..... have a good day". I didn't get a response for some reason . Any how God bless them and I found the group I wanna hang with and we don't need no stinkin' badges!!!!.... ride safe ...Gordon

HAHAHAAAA!!!! Thats Great!!! Ricky Rocket is a Butt Rocker!!! Now I for sure don't want to join. Thanks Gordon!

WHAT A LOAD OF TOSSERS.....

These guys need to change the name of there Little clubs name.

The meaning of the word REBEL

1. a person who refuses allegiance to, resists, or rises in arms against the government or ruler of his or her country.

2. a person who resists any authority, control, or tradition.

3. rebellious; defiant.

4. of or pertaining to rebels.
–verb (used without object) rebel

5. to reject, resist, or rise in arms against one's government or ruler.

6. to resist or rise against some authority, control, or tradition.

7. to show or feel utter repugnance: His very soul rebelled at spanking the child.

What more can be said, I for one would'nt even consider joining this so called club.

Just my own opinion....

Oh....forgot to say, I do have a bike that could get me into this club, but I choose...

We should send these premedona's this photo in an email. Everytime this subject comes up it makes me laugh. Why would we want to join a whining, self serving, stuck-up group of posers like that. They have no clue. Our bikes are more retro and rockin then theirs and they don't even realize it. They even acknowledge bobbers, WTF, our bikes make the best british bobbers hands down. I wouldn't join these wannabees if they begged me.

Quote:

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One interesting aspect about the application process is that you hafta meet up with a member before you gain member status.

---

Is that like a date or something? Be sure you have a can of Dapper Dan in your jacket pocket.

Okay, one final comment ( like Soren, I can't resist), should we ask them if they are gonna change their names to "Thai Iron Rockers" since most of their bikes will now be made in Thailand : ... just a thought.... ride safe.... Gordon

This has turned into a great day of bashing! I will admit at first I thought these guys looked pretty cool. But now I am WELL AWARE of the posers these guys truley are! i grew up skateboarding my WHOLE life and have always been the outcast. The reason why they have such a complicated process is because they are afraid of someone adding to (or as they think cramping) their syle. I grew up around Motorcycles due to the fact that my Uncle Bob had a custom bike shop in the 70's. I would hang with all sorts and these guys are the wannabe hardcore biker that you see in the Harley world. They just ride different bikes!

I should say, Not all of the members are KOOKS! Just the ones running the thing! Ok I'm Done, thanks for the support.

For the record. Mark "LitzerSki" are you really going to join?

dont feel bad brother we always outcast the kids that DIDNT skateboard. Thats why we call um squares.

haha...kinda like what's going on right now. Like how everyone is getting mad about not being allowed in a little club.

I think we're all past the age where we hafta be cool kids involved with something percieved to be the cool thing.

Nah Dude I don't think mad is the right word, more like curious. Are ya gonna "spoon" with the Rocket???

yup

ROFLMAO!!!!!!!!!! I knew I could count on you. For the record, sounds kinda cool, the club I mean. My younger bro rides a T100 and like the Thrux they are just cool as $&%^!! rides. Do your thing man!