The typical perception others have of the biker lifestyle is that of a tall, leather jean-clad muscular male with tattoos on both arms riding a Harley down the highway.  If his "old lady" is with him, then she is probably dressed the same way and looking just as tough.

Don't let appearances fool you. These are real people and they have the same basic needs as all of us.  They are simply living a different kind of lifestyle--one that includes big Harley cycles, "hawgs," "wenches," and regular trips to biker meets all over the country and even the world. Sasha responded to my query concerning how it is that men and women in the biker culture relate to each other.  She stated it this way: "Bikers are private about their relationships and one must be associated with the culture to understand the beauty of love in the wind." Although, it is true that bikers and their "old ladies" are not as open about their relationships, one can gain insights into how they relate to each other when considering the whole of their culture.  The sight of two sleeveless leather-jacketed figures on a Harley motorcycle is not uncommon.  Their manner of dress, speech, and attitudes are purposely designed to skirt the edges of the law and accepted behavior.  This carries over into their primary relationships as well. Another interesting aspect of bikers has to do with the names they choose for themselves.  Each couple is known to other bikers by such nicknames as BadBiker69 & HarleeQwin, HDBadass & SmackMe, BlastMe & RubyRider, and Drifter & Boxie.

Females are expected to be submissive to their male counterparts.  The more brash and "bitchy," the better.  Whether it's flashing their breasts at large gatherings of bikers or simply hanging on to their men while riding together, Harley women are more than willing to behave as expected in this unique subculture. Yet, bikers still do many of the things that others do when it comes to mixing the two sexes together.  For example, the Kentucky Motorcycle Association sponsors an annual "Biker Ball Halloween Bash."  Special prizes are given to the club with the largest representation as well as the best decorated bike.  There you have it--bikers enjoy dancing, too.

The two elements of travel and getting together with other bikers is what drives this culture.  Couples relate to each other based on the accepted behavior, attitudes, and morals of the group.  In this case, males represent being macho to the extreme and females respect their men by demonstrating a tough exterior, although submissive to them at all times.

Bikers are a breed unto themselves.  Their lifestyle is clearly defined by their clothing, the way they relate to each other, and their love of the open road; not to mention their motorcycles.  A biker could never relate to a woman who was not willing to be his old lady and share the lifestyle with him.  Conversely, biker babes are drawn to men who are deeply involved in the culture. Still, as in all types of primary relationship groups, there is much variation.  Just as there are those couples whose relationship is marked by violent behavior, there are many more who truly love and respect each other.  It's simply one more way that men and women share their interests and lifestyles. It's how they relate best--the joy of experiencing together "the beauty of love in the wind."

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