I remember the first time I saw a Harley with a bell on it.
I was cruising down the highway with a buddy of mine, who owns a Harley, and we passed this dude on a shiny new Fat Boy with a bell the size of a softball hanging off the handlebars.
I nearly did a double take and nearly ran off the road.
I had to know why in the world someone would put a bell on their motorcycle, so I asked my buddy. He just chuckled and said, “It’s for good luck.”
I was like, “Good luck? What the hell does that mean?” He explained that it’s a tradition that started back in the day when motorcyclists would tie bells to their bikes to ward off evil spirits and keep them safe on the road.
I thought it was the dumbest thing I had ever heard, but then I started seeing more and more bikes with bells on them, and I started to wonder if there was something to it.
I mean, I’ve been riding for a while now and I’ve never had any major accidents, so maybe the bell thing is onto something. I decided to do some research and find out for myself.
The History of Bells on Harleys
The tradition of putting bells on motorcycles can be traced back to the early days of motorcycling, when bikers would tie small bells to their bikes to ward off evil spirits and protect themselves from accidents.
The practice was especially popular among Harley riders, who would often add bells to their bikes as a symbol of brotherhood and good luck.
The tradition caught on and soon became a staple of Harley culture, with many riders adding bells to their bikes as a way to show their pride and connection to the community.
Today, the tradition of putting bells on Harleys is still alive and well, with many riders adding bells to their bikes as a way to pay homage to the past and show their love for the brand.
The Meaning of Bells on Harleys
The meaning of bells on Harleys can vary depending on the rider, but for the most part, they are seen as a symbol of good luck and protection.
Many riders believe that the sound of the bell can ward off evil spirits and keep them safe on the road, while others simply see it as a way to show their love for the brand and their connection to the Harley community.
In any case, putting a bell on your Harley is a great way to show your pride and pay homage to the rich history of the brand.
FAQ
Q: Are bells on Harleys good luck?
A: Many riders believe that the sound of the bell can ward off evil spirits and keep them safe on the road.
Q: How do I put a bell on my Harley?
A: You can tie a bell to your Harley using a piece of string or ribbon, or you can purchase a bell holder that attaches to your handlebars.
Q: Can I put a bell on my motorcycle if it’s not a Harley?
A: Of course! Bells on motorcycles are a universal tradition and can be added to any motorcycle, regardless of the brand.
The Conclusion: The Bell Rang
In the end, whether you’re a Harley rider or not, putting a bell on your motorcycle can be a great way to show your pride and connection to the motorcycling community.
It’s also a fun way to pay homage to the rich history of the sport and maybe even bring a little good luck your way.
So next time you’re out on the road and you hear the sweet sound of a bell ringing, don’t be surprised if you see a Harley rider with a big grin on their face.
They know what’s up.
Just remember, when in doubt, ring that bell!