Twenty years riding Queens taught me the rules. This ain't a guide for tourists.
KNOW YOUR TERRITORY
Every neighborhood has its own code. Astoria ain't Jamaica. LIC ain't Rockaway.
Learned this in '03. Rolled through Corona making noise. Old-timer Julio pulled me aside: "Kid, ride like that here, you won't last. Show respect, get respect."
He was right.
BUILD YOUR REP
Nobody trusts flash. Your reputation takes years to build, seconds to destroy.
First year, spent more time with a wrench than riding. Carlos on Northern Boulevard let me sweep floors, learn the trade. Every rider started knowing my face.
THE RULES
- Respect the veterans
- Never ride alone at night
- Keep your bike clean
- Help when you can
- Don't start shit
YOUR CREW
Find solid people. Your crew becomes family. Choose wrong, they'll drag you down.
GEAR
Buy quality. Take care of it. Your gear tells your story before you open your mouth.
THE LONG GAME
Twenty years in, still learning. Queens motorcycle culture been here since the 70s. Will be here when we're gone.
Add to the legend. Don't take from it.
That's survival.