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The Enduring Belief in Gremlin Bells: A Timeless Charm for Harley Davidson Riders
The Enduring Belief in Gremlin Bells: A Timeless Charm for Harley Davidson Riders
Do current-day Harley Davidson motorcycle riders still believe in the guardian powers of a gremlin bell, or is this gift of defense now outdated, old-school, or otherwise? The answer is more complex than it might seem, as this curious tradition continues to capture the hearts of many bikers.
A Personal Perspective
That's live foo... I guess I'm very old school when it comes to riding and racing motorcycles. I ride various brands of motorcycles, and my brand new bike has two gremlin bells on her. My belief in the gremlin bell's protective powers is born from a mix of old-school traditions and a tinge of superstition, rather than any concrete evidence.
The Origin of Gremlin Bells
Oh, hogwash! We started using bells on our bikes back in the 1960s, when we would camp out near them at motorcycle rallies, worried about the possibility of the bike being stolen. This did happen on occasion, which is why the gremlin bells were deemed a necessity.
The Modern Rider's Perspective
The second part of your question sums up a typical Harley Davidson motorcycle rider very well. In an era where these bikes are known for their heaviness and lack of maneuverability, the appeal lies in the nostalgia and the almost mystical elements that accompany riding them. The bell itself is much more than a useless piece of metal; it’s a symbol of camaraderie and history.
Personal Experience and Belief
I have a gremlin bell, and it’s a treasured gift. While I’m not superstitious, a good luck charm never hurts, and I believe there might be something to the belief in gremlin bells. Recently, I rode over 1000 miles non-stop. Just as I was about to reach my destination, stop for gas, and head to the hotel, my rear axle snapped right there in the parking lot. If it had happened on the highway, I would have been in a world of hurt or dead. So, perhaps there is something to it after all.
Belief in the gremlin bell’s powers is more about tradition and a connection to the past. The story behind the bell is fascinating. It goes as follows:
The Story Behind the Gremlin Bell
The story is told of an old, gray-bearded biker who, late one night, was heading home from a road trip to Mexico. In his saddlebags were gifts and trinkets for the children at the orphanage where he worked. As he rode alone in the cool desert air, he felt a sense of blessing for his own life, the children at the home, his bike, and the bond that had formed between them over many a mile on the highway.
Unfortunately, as he rounded a curve, the road gremlins ambushed him. These evil little creatures leave obstacles in your path, causing accidents and tire flats. As he lay in the ditch, helpless, the road gremlins moved in to finish him off. The old biker, determined not to give up, started throwing saddlebag contents at them, culminating in a tiny bell. The sound seemed to confuse the goblins, buying him time.
Two other bikers, coincidentally stopped for the night, heard the ringing bell and investigated. They found the old biker and the road gremlins, and with a vengeance, they attacked the goblins, saving the old biker in the process. The grateful old biker gave the saving bikers a piece of leather with a bell tied to it, to honor their bravery.
The story of the gremlin bell is more than just a tale. It’s a reminder of the protective energies that many believe exist, and the sense of community among riders who share these beliefs.
Conclusion
While the gremlin bell may seem like an old-school, outdated gift, it continues to resonate with many riders today. The story behind the bell and its perceived protective powers make it a valuable and cherished part of motorcycle riding culture, bridging the gap between tradition and superstition.