Who will take the cake?

Like anybody who’s seen an episode of “Sons of Anarchy” or who knows anything about biker gangs, you might get images in your head of older, tough guys in leather vests sitting on Harleys and looking for a fight. But the image of traditional rough-and-tumble bikers might be fading faster than we realize; or, at least, morphing into a more accepting, jovial bunch.

That metamorphosis is evidenced by the upcoming Rockers vs. Mods event, which is the first ever in Austin. The event is a biker rally in its own class. Different than the Rot Rally that Austinites are used to (in which South Congress and other parts of central Austin are overtaken by steely black bikes, head bandanas and fingerless leather gloves), this event is meant to bring bikers of all walks together. Essentially, it aims to bring new-school riders and old-school greasers together through the love of two-wheel transportation.

Who are the new-school bikers, you ask? They are the hipsters on Vespas. They are the college kid going forty with a bag of groceries from Whole Foods tied to their rack. They are the young, creative professional in a tie and skinny jeans puttering down the road on their way to their graphic design job.

Who are the greasers? They are the older, tough guys in leather vests sitting on Harleys and who may or may not be looking for a fight.

What do these two have in common? Bikes. To organizer Jeremiah Martin and his other biker friends the event is about “creating a community” of bikers, whether they are on a tricked-out Vespa or one of those new fancy trikes.

Although similar events have been held in Dallas and Houston, this event is in its inaugural year.

“We’re going to be riding, going to new shops,” said Martin. Bike shops, that is. As a seasoned rider, Martin is eager to bring his love of good rides and indie local bike shops together.

The event will be a three-day course where bikers will coast through the scenic and city streets of Austin while exploring and enjoying bike shops, music, food and raffle prizes.

But that’s not all! The best part of the event is that the proceeds will go to benefit Austin’s darling animal shelter, Austin Pets Alive!

“100% of registration fees will go to Austin Pets Alive!, 100% of raffle fees will go to Austin Pets Alive!, 100% of donations will go to Austin Pets Alive!” said Martin.

Martin was thankful to have help putting this event together, as it was a last-minute decision.

“A lot of people have kicked in to help,” said Martin.

Although Martin and his buddies “talked about it for years,” he’s glad it all came together quickly when he finally decided to go for it.

So if you or someone you know has a Vespa, Harley or any other motorized two-wheeler, tell them to join in, sit back and enjoy the ride.
March 2-4 Register @ Doc’s Motorworks (March 2, 5-8 PM) Or online at eventbrite.com/event/2698343819

Amanda Chappel