Exploring motorcycle culture and community in Maryland

Maryland has a vibrant motorcycle culture and community that offers a range of experiences for riders of all levels. Here are some ways to explore this exciting world:

  1. Join a motorcycle club or group: Maryland has a number of motorcycle clubs and groups that cater to riders of different types of bikes, including Harley-Davidsons, sports bikes, and touring bikes. Some popular clubs include the Flying Eagles Motorcycle Club (FEMC), Chosen Sons Motorcycle Club  Maryland Chapter of the Red Knights Motorcycle Club, Black Tigers Motorcycle Club, the Maryland Sportbikers riding club, and the Boumi Motor Corps.
  1. Attend a motorcycle event or rally: Maryland hosts a number of motorcycle events throughout the year, including the Mid-Atlantic Women’s Motorcycle Rally (MAWMR), Delmarva Bike Week, Ocean City Bikefest, and the Timonium Motorcycle Show. These events offer the opportunity to meet other riders, check out new bikes and gear, and participate in rides and other activities.
  1. Explore scenic routes and destinations: Maryland offers a number of scenic routes and destinations for motorcycle riders, including the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, the Catoctin Mountain Scenic Byway, and the Eastern Shore. These routes offer stunning views of the state’s natural beauty and are a great way to experience the thrill of riding.
  1. Get involved in motorcycle safety and advocacy: Maryland has a number of organizations dedicated to motorcycle safety and advocacy, such as the Maryland Motorcycle Safety Program and ABATE of Maryland. These organizations offer resources for riders, as well as opportunities to get involved in promoting motorcycle safety and advocating for the rights of riders.
  1. Visit motorcycle shops and dealerships: Maryland is home to a number of motorcycle shops and dealerships, including Harley-Davidson of Maryland, Battley Harley-Davidson, and Clinton Cycles. These shops offer a range of bikes, gear, and accessories, as well as opportunities to connect with other riders and participate in events and rides.

No matter what type of rider you are, Maryland’s motorcycle culture and community offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to meet other riders, explore new routes, or get involved in motorcycle safety and advocacy, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the thrill of riding in this exciting state.

Some Examples of Charitable Motorcycle Club in Maryland

There are several charitable motorcycle clubs in Maryland that work to support various causes and give back to the community. Here are a few examples:

  • Brothers of the Third Wheel: This is a national organization of trike riders who work to support a variety of charitable causes. The Maryland chapter of the organization has raised funds for organizations such as the Children’s Cancer Foundation and the Maryland Food Bank.
  • Blue Knights Maryland Chapter I: This organization is made up of current and retired law enforcement officers who ride motorcycles. The group works to support law enforcement-related charities and causes in Maryland, including the Maryland Special Olympics and the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.
  • Hogs and Heroes Foundation: This is a national organization of motorcycle riders who support military, law enforcement, and first responder charities. The Maryland chapter of the organization works to raise funds for organizations such as the USO and the Wounded Warrior Project.
  • Christian Motorcyclists Association (CMA): The Maryland chapter of the CMA is a group of Christian riders who work to support various charitable causes, including disaster relief efforts and programs that help children and families in need.

These are just a few examples of the charitable motorcycle clubs that operate in Maryland. Each organization has its own mission and focus, so riders who are interested in getting involved with a charitable group should do their research to find a club that aligns with their values and interests.

Establishing a Charitable Motorcycle Club in Maryland

Starting a charitable motorcycle club in Maryland can be a rewarding experience, but it takes time, effort, and planning. Here are some steps you can take to build a successful charitable motorcycle club in Maryland:

  • Define your mission and values: The first step in building a charitable motorcycle club is to define your mission and values. Decide what causes you want to support and what kind of impact you want to make in your community. This will help you attract members who share your vision and goals.
  • Recruit members: Once you have a clear mission and values, you can begin recruiting members for your club. Look for riders who share your passion for charitable work and who are committed to making a difference in their community. You can reach out to local motorcycle clubs and organizations to find potential members. Post on social media and tag #MotorcycleTalks 
  • Develop a plan of action: Once you have a group of members, develop a plan of action for your club. Decide on the causes you want to support, the events you want to participate in, and the activities you want to organize. This could include charity rides, fundraising events, and volunteer opportunities.
  • Register your club: To become an official organization, you will need to register your club with the state of Maryland. You can find information on how to register a nonprofit organization on the Maryland Secretary of State website.
  • Raise funds: To support your charitable activities, you will need to raise funds. This can be done through fundraising events, donations, and sponsorships. Consider partnering with local businesses or organizations to help support your club’s activities.
  • Get involved in your community: To build your club’s reputation and visibility, get involved in your community. Participate in local events, volunteer for charitable organizations, and work to promote motorcycle safety and awareness.

Are there any Government requirements to establish a motorcycle club in Maryland?

There are no specific government requirements for establishing a motorcycle club in Maryland, as long as the club is not a formal business entity, such as a corporation or LLC. However, there are certain steps that you may need to take in order to operate as a nonprofit organization and engage in charitable activities.

If you plan to operate as a nonprofit organization and raise funds for charitable causes, you will need to register with the state of Maryland as a charitable organization. This process involves filing an application with the Maryland Secretary of State and providing information about your club’s mission, structure, and activities. You will also need to obtain tax-exempt status from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in order to receive tax-deductible donations from donors.

In addition to registering as a charitable organization, you may also need to obtain permits or licenses to operate certain types of events or activities. For example, if you plan to hold a fundraising event that involves alcohol, you will need to obtain a special event permit from the local government or alcohol control board.

It is always a good idea to consult with a lawyer or other professional who is familiar with nonprofit and charitable law in Maryland to ensure that you are in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. This can help you avoid potential legal issues and ensure that your club is able to operate effectively and efficiently.  If you need assistance finding a lawyer, contact us for assistance

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