History of the Biker & Marketing

You must have solid motorcycle-world knowledge for good marketing. Your marketing person’s efforts are the link between your motorcycle website and your biker target audience. As a result, your internet marketing and biker world experts must have both. Below is an article explaining the history of the term “biker.”

Let me start with information on the term “biker.” Over 120 years ago, it was first used for those who rode bicycles. Later, the same term was used for “motorized bicycles.”

WWII and Modern Day “Bikers”

But what most people think of a biker today started after World War II. And that is the stereotype of a leather-clad, scruffy rider of a big displacement Harley-Davidson or an old Indian motorcycle.

After troops returned from the War, in some ways, they were finding their place in society. They also missed the intensity of the theater of War. Plus, the prices were low, and the troops had cash. Because of these three items, many of them bought motorcycles. Notably, many of them purchased motorcycles used in WWII. This was because of the sheer volume of military motorcycles that returned to the US.

Birth of the “American Biker”

In 1947, the “incident” occurred at the Hollister Motorcycle Rally. Now, I say “incident” because it was publicized as a full-on riot in the newspapers. Back then, newspapers and magazines delivered the news. Because there weren’t cameras, news stories could easily get blown out of proportion. Unfortunately, what the newspapers and magazines stated happened in Hollister was untrue.

Today, what happened in Hollister would be better called “bikers getting a little wild.” And yes, there were some fights. But the media made it sound like full-on mayhem and out-of-control riots. Also, some of the information was beyond just an exaggeration.

Then motorcycle clubs (MCs) started forming. They also included both outlaw MCs and MCs. Note, for those learning motorcycle terminology, never name clubs.

The classic picture of the biker (now known to be Eddie Davenport) is notably in Hollister’s streets. He is kicked back slightly awkwardly, sitting on a Harley, looking like he is drinking two beers with bottles all around the bike. But now it is known that this picture was staged. Even though the Hollister biker rally incident was misreported, it was significant. This is because it created the persona of the “American biker.”

Gypsy Tours & the Biker Mystique

From post-WWII to 1969, biker culture grew. One notable thing that helped keep it going was motorcycle rallies, which were often referred to as “Gypsy tours.” Gypsy tours started as parties/get-togethers for riders to enjoy comradery, competitions, riding, and partying. One popular competition was the hillclimbs.

Back then, hillclimb motorcycles were closer to stock. Some were lightened by removing parts, and others had different tires or tires with chains, but the bikes looked stock, unlike most of today’s motorcycles used in hill climbs.

Easyriders the Movie & Biker Persona

Then, in 1969, the movie Easyriders came out. Now, you’ve most likely seen the movie. And you most likely know how this was part of the biker life. In addition, it popularized choppers. Honestly, the impact of the Easyriders movie helped keep Harley in business. In addition, the Easyriders movie also helped create the mystique of both Harleys and choppers.

Early-2000s Harley Boom

Before 2000, there were many everyday riders/motorcycle enthusiasts, as well as diehard Harley riders. Part of the boom in the motorcycle industry in the early 2000s was related to the biker lifestyle Easyriders presented. Eventually, many of these riders who bought Harleys found that riding wasn’t for them.

HD Buyback

Another part of HD’s history and success is the buyback of Harley-Davidson. Not only did this enable the company to exist still, but it also created a sense of pride and brand loyalty.

Changes in Riders’ Preferences

Next, there are many diehard, dedicated Harley riders. But you’ve seen a lot of riders under 40-45 years old not riding Harleys. And a lot of them seem to have little interest in Harleys. Over the years, there have been changes in rider demographics. One reason for the changes is that these riders did not grow up with the Easyriders’ movie. Also, they did not grow up seeing Harleys and choppers.

Due to this, your marketing expert must market distinctively today’s mix of riders. It impacts your motorcycle site’s content, graphics, web design, social, and more. Plus, the motorcycle products sold on your website might not be a fit for both diehard Harley riders and those who aren’t very interested in Harleys.

To sum up, knowing your target audience is critical to successful marketing. Understanding the significant biker world history helps. Another article that will highlight things that influence marketing is the Harley buyback. 

One important area where you must understand different riders is paid social media like Facebook ads. You can win or lose big by advertising your motorcycle company’s offering on social media. Another reason is that you must target the right audience for successful ad campaigns.

Lastly, you can learn more about motorcycle world marketing on our Marketing Academy and our website services for online biker companies.