What's In a Name

In the past I've given our group a new name that corresponds to that year's trip.  We've been called Slayers, Badlanders, Ozark Mountain Daredevils, Old Dominion and Red Riders.  Recently or maybe even longer, several of the riders have suggested that we get a permanent name and maybe even a patch.  Well, I've been thinking about that off and on for last year or so, but only recently put some real effort into it (inspired by Matty's Rides to Live t-shirt).

To that end I think that I've come up with a pretty good name and "colors" for our group.  To manage your expectations I wanted to discuss the principals that drove the name and colors design as well as my somewhat foggy vision for the group.  And as always I encourage and welcome your collaboration.

I want to start by saying I don't think any of us want to be considered a serious MC or even a HOG Chapter.  And I do not expect nor care if you wear the colors every time we ride.  Talking out loud here I see this group pretty much running like we have been.  Placing increased value and benefits for the "members" that have been here the longest.  When I say benefits I'm mainly talking about rights to the annual trip and a better shot at bedrooms when space is limited.  As for the New joiners, I'd consider them prospect-like, they are more than welcome to ride and socialize with us and are encouraged to do so as that's how they become full fledged members (after a vote).  Sorry, no hazing, but buying a round or two will help their cause.

Getting back to the design principals, I'm not sure any of you know this (or care), but I was originally an Architecture major before changing to Computer Science half way through the program.  Although I loved the artsy side of architecture I didn't want to wait until this point in my life to start to make real money as that's typically what happens in that profession.  So I now use what's left of my left brain for my day job and enjoy using my right brain for stuff like this.  But I digress...

As for the principals that drove the design of the colors and name they are:

1. A name that was neither too serious (Boozefightes, Outlaws, etc), nor too silly (Wild Hogs, Over the Hill Gang)
2. A name or colors that represented our area in a subtle way.  That's Chicago since it's a central point for all of us and well known by people across the USA/World.
3. Colors that were agnostic regarding motorcycle manufacturer or bike style since we're non-denominational
4. Colors that shy away from the clichés - Skulls, Eagles, Flames, Devils, etc.
5. Colors that were not mean, vicious, scary, menacing, etc. (as Matty frightens easily).
6. Colors that were subtle and easy to recognize without squinting ;-)
7. Last, but not least - something that we'd be proud to call ourselves and wear without taking ourselves too seriously

I'm excited to show you what I've come up with on Saturday and get your feedback.