Snappy newsletters. Simple Facebook sharing. Spirited comments. Sweet features are waiting… GET THEM NOW!

Saudis Go Hog Wild

Motorcycles catch on in Muslim country

By Rebecca Smith Hurd,  Newser User

Posted Nov 24, 2008 2:20 PM CST

(Newser) – In the eyes of religious conservatives, this Saudi motorcycle gang may as well be the Hell’s Angels. But the Muslim professionals in the Riyadh Harley Owners Club do pull over to pray, the Christian Science Monitor reports. Despite the region's religious taboos, strict laws, and stereotypes, motorcycle riding is growing in popularity. The club now counts 300 members who ride together weekly.


"It's the sense of freedom you get on the bike," one clean-shaven member explains. The Harley-Davidson franchise, open since 1997, has gone from selling 60 to 500 motorcycles per year. Though club members sometimes get stopped by police, they say it’s worth the hassle. Adds the franchise owner: Being pious doesn’t mean you have to stop living. "I can still ride and live my life.”

Motorcycling is a relatively new sport in Saudi Arabia. As a result, many locals still don't respect riders and think they're outlaws.
Motorcycling is a relatively new sport in Saudi Arabia. As a result, many locals still don't respect riders and think they're outlaws.   (AP Photo/Toby Talbot)
Several Harley-Davidson Sportster motorcycles are reflected in chrome.
Several Harley-Davidson Sportster motorcycles are reflected in chrome.   (AP Photo/Nati Harnik)
Saudi bikers aim to balance their love for Hogs with their respect for national customs and law.
Saudi bikers aim to balance their love for Hogs with their respect for national customs and law.   (AP Photo/Ben Margot)
« Prev« Prev | Next »Next » Slideshow
To report an error on this story, notify our editors.
A snapshot of the day's best news stories.
 
COMMENTS
Be the first to comment on this story.

More Newser Stories

Islamists Call for Execution of Young Tweeter

Iowa Motorcyclist Convicted in 188MPH Chase

Iran Willing to Attack US: Report

Rogue Saudi Female Driver: I Survived Crash

Gulf Arab Monitors Bail on Syria


NEWS FROM OUR PARTNERS
Other Sites We Like:   24/7 Wall St.   |   Betty Confidential   |   BuzzFeed   |   Cracked   |   Fark   |   Timelines   |   The Frisky   |   Geek Sugar   |   NewsOne