Motorcycle Groups Respond to Negative Stereotypes

Tools

Story Published: Jun 29, 2009 at 4:38 PM PST

By David Klugh

YAKIMA -- Last week, the nation's foremost expert on outlaw motorcycle gangs came to town.

Our report on Steve Cook struck a nerve with local bikers who didn't want to be lumped in with outlaw gangs.

There are dozens of motorcycle groups in Yakima. Most formed through a love of riding, commitment to community and a need to just be themselves.

And dozens of them called Action News to set the record straight.
Much of the frustration focused on one comment.

Steve Cook's belief that outlaw ganga at charity drives are using this as a front. "What they don't tell you is what they're doing the rest of the year. They're selling drugs. They're stealing motorcycles. Their beating people up," said outlaw gang expert, Steve Cook.

It was that statement that got local motorcycle clubs all revved up. They felt like Cook was telling you that anytime you see a motorcyclist, or group of cyclists cruising down the street, they were likely up to no good."
Jerry Looney is a local rider. "Last year we raised $11,000 in a day for the American Cancer Society."

Looney is also one of dozens of local cyclists who took great offense to Cook's generalizations. He insists there is no motorcycle gang problem in Yakima Valley... And no one should fear any cyclist.
"Bikers are the most giving people in the community in my opinion. We're constantly looking for ways to interact with the community, better the community and do that kind of stuff."

Mitch Fowler set up Cook's training seminar for law enforcement. He echoes Looney's sentiments, and believes no legitimate, law abiding motorcycle club should take offense.

Fowler, says, "we have had no issues with any motorcyclists in the Valley or even in Yakima. We like to be proactive and we like to have knowledge before something happens. It's basically what the training was about."

These bikers get the intimidation factor... they wear the clothes, they grow the beards, and they ride the bikes. But they are also very proud of their service and the communities they call home.
In Jerry Looney's words... "we want to make it clear... We're not bad people."

Current Weather

Current Temp 46.0 °F

Partly Cloudy

Watch the story

More Weather

Current Weather

More Weather

Upload directly from your mobile device.

Learn how

YouNews

This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.