07/21/2026
LETS TAKE IT BACK TO BASICS….
“HERE..HOLD THIS,”
A Cut
(It’s called a “cut” because, back in the early days, riders would literally cut the sleeves off their denim jackets.)
To many riders—especially in traditional motorcycle clubs—a cut isn’t just another piece of clothing. It’s the most respected possession you’ll own because it represents the time, sacrifice, loyalty, and commitment it took to earn it. Anyone can buy a leather vest. Not everyone earns the right to wear one that actually means something.
Here are a few things that have been passed down over the years:
1. Never let your cut hit the ground.
Treat it with respect at all times. Whether by tradition or personal pride, allowing it to hit the ground is viewed by many as careless and disrespectful.
2. Patches should be earned, not handed out.
The value of a patch comes from the work, sacrifice, and commitment behind it. If everyone receives one without earning it, it loses its meaning.
3. Never leave your cut hanging somewhere and walk away.
Experienced club members know that an unattended cut can disappear in a hurry. Keep it with you or put it somewhere secure.
4. Don’t lean against a bar or wall with the back of your cut rubbing against it.
Besides unnecessary wear and tear, many old-school riders simply consider it poor etiquette.
5. Never lend your cut to someone who wants to “see what it feels like.”
If you earned yours, someone else should earn theirs. Respect what it represents.
6. Never put on another person’s cut.
A cut belongs to the individual who earned the right to wear it. It’s personal and should be treated that way.
7. Don’t wear it backwards for pictures.
This isn’t a costume or a comedy prop. Respect the traditions behind it.
8. Don’t throw it over your motorcycle for photo opportunities.
Avoid tossing it over the gas tank, handlebars, or anywhere else just to get the perfect picture. Take care of it.
9. If you’re traveling in a car, store it properly.
Many old-timers folded their cuts carefully—almost like folding the American flag—and placed them neatly in the trunk with nothing stacked on top.
10. Traditionally, cuts are denim or leather.
Most are black or blue, although some clubs wear colors that reflect their own identity and traditions.
11. Respect personal space around another person’s cut.
Many riders prefer that others not handle or touch their cut without permission. It’s a matter of respect.
12. Hand-sewn patches still matter.
In many clubs, once a prospect earns his final patches, they’re expected to be sewn on properly within a specified time. No tape, glue, or Velcro shortcuts.
13. Every prospect should have a prospect bag.
What’s inside varies from club to club, but being prepared is part of the job. Common items may include first-aid supplies, feminine hygiene products (which can also serve emergency first-aid purposes), ci******es, a lighter, a tire repair kit, spare fuses, needle and thread, tape, a flashlight, batteries, gloves, and other items members may need.
14. Keep it professional.
Traditional cuts generally have a clean, consistent appearance that reflects the club’s identity.
15. Store your cut properly at home.
Hang it up with respect. Don’t toss it on a chair, the floor, or under a pile of clothes.
16. Don’t show up to club functions without it.
If it’s expected by your club, wear it with pride and represent your organization properly.
17. Be mindful of your surroundings.
Some riders prefer to keep their cut fully zipped, snapped, or buttoned when around rival clubs or in tense environments. The old saying goes: If you can’t protect it, don’t put it on.
18. Avoid covering your cut with unrelated decorations.
Many traditional clubs prefer a clean, uniform appearance that reflects the club rather than individual novelty.
19. What did I miss?
These are just a few traditions I’ve learned over the years. Every club has its own customs, and that’s part of what makes this culture unique.
Tap in. Drop it in the comments.😎🇺🇸
Writing by
Marc Valentine
