Top Motorcycle Clubs in Ireland and How to Join

There’s something primal about the rumble of a motorcycle engine echoing across Ireland’s winding coastal roads or rolling green hills.  For riders here, it’s not just about the thrill of the ride. It’s about finding your tribe.

Ireland is home to a diverse range of motorcycle clubs that cater to riders of all tastes, from those who crave the thrill of adrenaline on the open road to those who value strong community bonds and charity work. 

Whether you’re into Harley-Davidson, Triumph bikes, or Honda Goldwings, there’s a club that’s perfect for you. Today, we break down some of the most notable motorcycle clubs and organizations across the island, from iconic 1%er groups to charity-focused riders.

1. Hells Angels MC Ireland: The Legends

“Live to Ride, Ride to Live”

You’ve heard the name. The Hells Angels aren’t just a club. They’re a global institution. One of the most well-known motorcycle clubs in the world, Hells Angels, made their way to Ireland back in 2011.

This isn’t your weekend riding group. You’ll need to earn your place and usually be invited in by an existing member.

Think leather cuts, brotherhood bonds, and rides that feel more like a way of life than a hobby.

2. RAT Club Northern Ireland: Irish Biker Clubs

Got a Triumph? This one’s for you. Northern Ireland’s RAT Club (Riders Association of Triumph) is where classic British engineering meets craic-filled rides. Whether you’re on a Bonneville or a Speed Twin, this crew celebrates the purr of a Triumph engine like no other. 

Their calendar? Packed with scenic coastal runs and pub meetups where stories (and pints) flow freely. Members go on regular ride-outs, hit the open road, and enjoy the kind of community that only comes with shared passion.

 A must-join if you’ve got a Triumph parked in the garage.

3. Freewheelers MC: Waterford’s Old-School Brotherhood

Born in 1979, the Freewheelers are the OGs of Ireland’s motorcycle scene. Based in Waterford, this club has built a reputation for long road trips, classic biker camaraderie, and an old-school motorcycle club vibe. 

Want in? You’ll need grit, a sponsor, and a willingness to prove yourself during a prospecting phase. But for those who make the cut, it’s family for life.

4. MRA Ireland (Motorcycle Racing Association): For the Speed Demons

If your idea of fun involves knee-down cornering and checkered flags, the Motorcycle Riders Association (MRA) is your pit crew. They organize heart-pounding championships, track days, and training sessions across Ireland.

Whether you’re just starting or already racing, they’ve got the events and structure to support your journey. Perfect for adrenaline junkies who live for the racetrack.

5. GWOCNI: Gold Wing Glory

Honda Gold Wings aren’t just bikes. They’re luxury tourers built for miles. The Gold Wing Owners Club of Northern Ireland (GWOCNI) knows this better than anyone. 

Their rides? Think weekend camping trips, charity fundraisers, and coffee stops at every seaside village. Best for riders who value comfort and camaraderie.

6. Celtic Thunder HOG: Harley Davidson Ireland

Harley-Davidson owners, unite! Celtic Thunder HOG (Harley Owners Group) is Ireland’s official hub for everything Hog. Celtic Thunder is one of the most active chapters in Ireland. 

They’re constantly riding, connecting, and sharing their love for their bikes. From dealer-sponsored events to roaring coastal rides, this club is all about that signature Harley rumble. Check out their website if you’re looking to ride with fellow Harley lovers.

7. Widows Sons Ireland: Masons on Wheels

Freemasons + motorcycles = a club like no other. The Widows Sons blend secret-handshake brotherhood with roaring charity rides. 

Their mission? Supporting causes like children’s hospitals while cruising in formation. It’s a perfect example of how motorcycling can be about more than just the ride.

8. Norton Owners Club: Classic Bike Royalty

If you’re into classic British bikes, especially Norton motorcycles, you’ll love this one. Since 1959, the Norton Owners Club has been the holy grail for fans of British racing green. 

With 7,000+ members worldwide, The Norton Owners Club is one of the oldest and most respected classic bike clubs around. With a huge international membership, they host events, offer tech support, and help preserve Norton history. 

It’s more than a club. It’s a legacy. Rides that’ll make you feel like Steve McQueen.

9. Blood Bikes: Heroes in Leathers

This one’s special. Forget superheroes. Blood Bikers are the real MVPs. These volunteers race medical supplies, blood, and breast milk to hospitals for free. 

Joining Blood Bikes means your love of motorcycling could actually help save lives. Rain or shine, they’re on call 24/7. Feel-good factor is, Every mile ridden saves lives.

How to Join Irish Motorcycle Clubs: Your Roadmap to Brotherhood

So you’ve fallen in love with Ireland’s motorcycle club scene. Now what? Here’s the real talk on how to actually join these tribes of the tarmac, from casual riding groups to the most exclusive brotherhoods.

The Hard Way: Traditional & Outlaw Clubs

(Hells Angels, Freewheelers MC, etc.)

Show Up, Shut Up:Attend open events (charity rides, bike nights). Don’t ask to join. Let them notice you. Clubs sniff out posers.  

Earn Your Stripes: If a member vouches for you, you’ll become a “hang-around” (think probation). Expect months/years of proving loyalty through rides, chores, and absolute discretion.

Patch In or Pack Out: Full membership means earning your “colors.” Lose them, lose your place.

The cold truth is, Clubs like Hells Angels won’t list a “Join Now” button. If you have to ask, you’re not ready.

The Social Route: Brand & Riding Clubs

(RAT Club NI, Celtic Thunder HOG, GWOCNI, Norton Owners Club)

Own the Bike: Most require you to ride their brand (Harley, Triumph, Gold Wing, Norton).

Click “Join”: Many have online forms (e.g., Celtic Thunder HOG). Pay a small fee (usually €20-€50/year).

Show Up: Attend a ride or meetup. No prospecting.Just petrol and banter. The Norton Owners Club even lets you join if you just love Nortons (no ownership required).

The Good Deeds Path: Charity Clubs

(Blood Bikes, Widows Sons)

Blood Bikes requires:

• Clean driving record
• Advanced riding cert (like IAM or RoSPA)

Prove Your Intentions: Widows Sons? You’ll need:

• Freemason membership first
• A bike + passion for charity rides

The Fast Track: Casual Groups – Motorcycle Clubs Ireland

(Bike Riders Ireland Facebook group, MRA track days)

Facebook is Your Friend: Search “[Your County] Motorcycle Group” – most welcome anyone with two wheels.

Pay-to-Play: MRA Ireland’s track days just need €50-€100 and a bike in good shape.

Red Flags to Avoid in Biker Clubs Ireland

Patch Politics: Never wear a club’s back patch unless invited (serious consequences).

Rushing In: Traditional MCs will test you. Impatience = instant rejection.

Online Begging: DM’ing “How do I join the Hells Angels??” = laugh emoji reply.

Final Gear Shift

Ireland’s biking community is alive and kicking, with a club for just about every type of rider. Whether you’re in it for the social scene, the adrenaline, or the chance to make a difference, there’s a seat waiting for you somewhere.

So gear up, check out these clubs, and hit the road. You never know who you’ll meet or where you’ll end up.

Help fellow motorcyclists make the right choices. Share your opinions and experiences on various topics through our forum.