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Motorcycles, Membership, and Belonging
DAVID W. McCURDY
Summary In his article entitled "Motorcycles, Membership, and Belonging," David McCurdy discusses the ways humans form groups, identifying the more common ways for Americans and drawing a comparison between the traditional kinship group in rural India and the more American method of social aggregation based on shared interests. Indian families would be surprised, McCurdy suggests, to see how American families live in comparison to their own existence in large, close-knit groups of extended families. Americans grow up in small nuclear families, often with parents out working. Neighbors are often strangers, and people can appear lonely. American society values individualism, independence, and competition.
However, McCurdy believes that Americans find satisfying social connections not from families and neighbors, but instead from other groups: networks of friends from local taverns, work organizations, and civic groups. He contends that these groups, as well as those formed around shared interests, provide members with a sense of self-worth and a safe place to express their social needs.
To illustrate his argument, McCurdy describes the Gold Wing Recreational Rider Association (GWRRA), a group formed in 1976 by seven couples in Phoenix, Arizona, who owned Honda Gold Wing motorcycles and wanted to connect with others for the purposes of touring. Since then, this group has grown to include more than 70,000 members in the United States, Canada, and 10 other countries. It boasts a paid staff, an army of volunteers, 10 deputy directors, nine American and three Canadian regional directors, 49 district directors, and 586 chapter directors. It has an annual rally called the "Wing Ding" that draws over 10,000 participants. Local chapters gather for a variety of events, including monthly meetings, weekly rides, and fund-raisers.
McCurdy argues that the core values of this organization reflect the values and symbolism of kinship groups and offer participants a framework of belonging and opportunities to express themselves. Participation in the GWRRA brings with it a certain expectation of behavior. Members show off their motorcycles, and are expected to have pride in their machines, cleaning and adorning them with chrome and other accents. Participation is encouraged and rewarded by pins and patches. Safety is of utmost importance, and members are discouraged from showing off, driving after drinking, and riding aggressively. Additionally, couples are a valued part of the group, and members are strongly encouraged to participate and tour with the group, despite the physical challenges of motorcycle riding.
McCurdy concludes that belonging to a group of individuals who share an interest provides Americans with a feeling of belonging that many do not find at home or work. It offers the opportunity for personal recognition, a sense of self-worth, and a way to express themselves. For many, McCurdy argues, this organized group provides what he calls a "non-family home."
The Gold Wing Road Riders Association was formed in 1976 by seven couples who lived in Phoenix, Arizona.