Harley-Davidson | Brothers of the Bike Exhibit

Harley-Davidson (H-D) and RIDES magazine along with Dan Tibbs, owner of NEXX UNLIMITED Leathers, along celebrated Black History month by hosting “Brothers of a Bike”, a one-time exhibit held at Jay-Z’s 40/40 Club in NYC.  The exhibit highlighted the many contributions African-Americans have made within the motorcycling community from the drag strip, the moto-cross scene and the streets.  In addition to several clubs and independent riders, hip hop legends DMC, Grand Master Flash and DJ Clue were out came out to show love and support.

On display were vintage photos of Bessie Stringfield, the first African American female to ride solo cross-country on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle; William B. Johnson, the first African American Haley-Davidson dealer; Rickey Gadson World Champion professional drag racer and James “Buba” Stewart, Supercross and Motocross champion as well as more vintage images that provide a glimpse into the rich colorful history of the African-American community.  So what’s a party celebrating bikers in the African-American community without the bikes?  Well, they had that covered also with a 2010 H-D Softail Deluxe along with three of NY’s own hardcore customs.

H-D, RIDES and NEXX UNLIMITED took this opportunity to show their “Brother’s of the Bike, the African-American Motorcycle Experience” video throughout the club rocks.  This video speaks to the essence of what the African-American bike community is and represents with true testimony from notables such as Rare Breed, L.A. Defiant Ones, East Bay Dragons, Dan Tibbs, owner of NEXX Unlimited clothing and Transit Wheelers.  “We want to capture the spirit of the African-American rider by telling their stories” says John Comissiong, head of H-D’s African-American Market Outreach.

Check the video to see what real riders have to say about their bikes, club and their brand, Harley-Davidson.

main photo courtsey Johnny Nunez

  Written by: Panama
  Motorcycle and Industry Pioneer

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