The Harley Owners Group is Harley-Davidson's official membership club for riders
The Harley Owners Group (HOG) is a worldwide club run by Harley-Davidson that brings together people who own or ride Harley motorcycles. It is not a separate organisation — Harley-Davidson owns and operates it directly. When you become a member, you join a network of local chapters, attend organised rides, and gain access to member-only discounts and events.
Membership is open to anyone who owns a Harley-Davidson motorcycle or is interested in the brand, though some benefits tie directly to bike ownership. The group operates in more than 140 countries and has over 1 million members across local chapters. Each chapter runs its own calendar of rides, social events, and charity activities, so what you experience depends partly on where you live and which chapter you join.
Key Takeaways
- HOG membership is managed by Harley-Davidson and includes access to local chapter events, organised rides, and a community of other riders.
- Membership costs vary by country and membership tier, and some new Harley purchases include a free first-year membership.
- Member benefits include discounts at Harley dealers and partner businesses, roadside information, and access to HOG-branded merchandise and publications.
- Local chapters organise rides, social gatherings, and charity events throughout the year, and you can join any chapter regardless of where you bought your bike.
- HOG is distinct from independent motorcycle clubs — it is the official Harley-Davidson owner community with no outlaw or gang affiliation.
How membership works and what it costs
You can join HOG through Harley-Davidson's website or at any authorised Harley dealer. The membership fee varies by country and by the type of membership you choose. In the United States, annual membership typically costs between $40 and $50, though some dealers offer discounted rates or bundle membership with a new bike purchase. Many new Harley owners receive a complimentary first-year membership as part of their purchase package.
Once you join, you are assigned to a local chapter based on your location, though you can attend events at other chapters if you travel. You receive a membership card, a HOG patch to wear on your jacket, and access to the member portal online. The membership runs on a calendar year, and you renew annually if you want to keep your benefits active.
What member benefits actually cover
HOG membership includes several practical perks beyond community access. Members receive discounts at Harley-Davidson dealerships on parts, service, and accessories — the discount percentage varies by dealer but typically ranges from 10 to 15 percent. You also get discounts at partner businesses, which may include hotels, restaurants, and motorcycle gear retailers, though the specific partners and discount amounts change by region.
All members have access to roadside information through a partner service, which covers towing and basic roadside repair if your bike breaks down. You receive HOG Magazine, a quarterly publication that covers member stories, riding tips, and new products. Members can also purchase HOG-branded merchandise — jackets, helmets, pins, and other gear — through the official HOG store, and some items are exclusive to members.
Local chapters and how they organise rides
The real heart of HOG is the local chapter system. Each chapter is run by volunteer officers — a director, assistant director, and treasurer — who are elected by chapter members. Chapters organise regular rides, ranging from short weekend cruises to multi-day road trips. They also host social events like barbecues, holiday parties, and bike shows, and many chapters participate in charity rides that raise money for local causes.
You do not have to own a Harley to attend chapter events as a guest, though you must be a member to join the chapter officially. Chapters meet on a regular schedule — typically monthly — and post their event calendars online. If you move or travel frequently, you can attend rides and events at any chapter, not just your home chapter. This flexibility makes HOG useful for riders who want community connection wherever they are.
The difference between HOG and independent motorcycle clubs
HOG is an official, brand-affiliated community with no connection to outlaw motorcycle clubs or gang culture. It is a social and recreational organisation focused on riding, friendship, and charity. Members wear HOG patches and colours, but these are distinct from the patches worn by independent motorcycle clubs, which operate under different rules and cultures.
If you are new to motorcycling or the Harley community, understanding this distinction matters: HOG is welcoming to all riders, regardless of background, and chapters actively work to be inclusive. There is no initiation process, no mandatory behaviour code beyond treating other members with respect, and no expectation that membership defines your identity or lifestyle. You join because you ride a Harley and want to connect with other riders — that is the entire purpose.
How to find and join a local chapter
Start by visiting the HOG website and using the chapter locator tool, which shows all chapters in your area and their contact information. Most chapters have a Facebook page or website where you can see their upcoming events and meeting dates. You can attend a chapter meeting or event as a guest before you join, which gives you a sense of whether the group is a good fit.
To join a chapter formally, you will need to be a HOG member first. Once you are, you contact the chapter director or attend a meeting and ask to join. There is no waiting period or approval process — chapters accept new members at their regular meetings. Some chapters have a small one-time chapter fee (usually $10 to $20) to cover local costs like meeting space or event supplies, but this is separate from your national HOG membership.
What happens at chapter meetings and organised rides
Chapter meetings typically last an hour and cover chapter business — upcoming events, charity activities, and member announcements. After the formal meeting, members often stay to socialise. Organised rides vary widely: some chapters do casual Sunday morning cruises around town, while others plan weekend trips to distant destinations. Rides are usually led by experienced members who set a safe pace and route, and riders of all skill levels are welcome.
Charity rides are a major part of many chapters' calendars. These rides raise money for local causes — food banks, children's hospitals, veteran organisations, and other community needs. Riders typically pay an entry fee, and the chapter donates the proceeds. These events are open to non-members as well, so they are a good way to experience HOG culture without committing to membership first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to own a Harley to join HOG?
You do not need to own a Harley to attend chapter events as a guest, but you must own or be in the process of purchasing a Harley to become a full member. Some chapters allow non-owners to participate in certain events, so ask your local chapter about their guest policy.
Can I join HOG if I bought my Harley used?
Yes. HOG membership is open to anyone who owns a Harley, regardless of whether it is new or used. You will need proof of ownership (title or registration) when you join, and you can sign up at any Harley dealer or online through the HOG website.
What if there is no chapter near me?
If your area does not have an active chapter, you can still be a member and receive all national benefits — discounts, roadside information, and the magazine. Some members in remote areas start new chapters by recruiting other local Harley owners and contacting HOG headquarters to register the chapter officially.
Are there different membership levels?
HOG offers standard annual membership and sometimes promotional rates for new members or multi-year memberships. Some dealers bundle membership with bike purchases at a discount. Check with your local dealer or the HOG website for current membership options and pricing in your area.
What is the HOG patch, and can I wear it on my jacket?
The HOG patch is an official emblem that comes with your membership. You can wear it on your jacket or vest to show you are a member. It is distinct from patches worn by independent motorcycle clubs and carries no gang affiliation — it straightforward identifies you as part of the Harley Owners Group community.