Gender, Style, Technology: The Changing Landscape Of Motorcycle Culture

Abstract

This thesis demystifies the cultural process of symbolic interpretation and appropriation within contemporary American motorcycle culture by using literature review and cultural analysis to explore the impact and influence of technological and aesthetic developments within a socio-historical context. Several aspects of motorcycle culture are addressed to develop a holistic understanding: the origins of motorcycles from their bicycle counterparts; motorcycles as a gendered phenomenon within American society; the affective experience of motorcycling and relating those affective experiences to the act of constructing one's identity as a motorcyclist; the symbolic appropriation of technological developments within motorcycle culture; how technological developments beyond the realm of motorcycles directly impact motorcycle culture; and motorcycle culture as an ever-growing, ever-changing, dynamic, social entity worthy of continued academic investigation in an effort to understand symbolic cultural exchange. This research demystifies the decentralized nature of motorcycle culture for the non-participant while preserving the value of motorcyclists as individuals deserving respect, appreciation, and understanding. It is not the purpose of this research to objectify individuals, communities, or cultures. Rather, it serves as a foundation for the continued expansion of academic appreciation surrounding this rich and diverse sub-culture.