Association of Recovering Motorcyclists

The Association of Recovering Motorcyclists (ARM) is an independent motorcycle association, founded in 1986 by Judy and Jack Jensen. The association currently have over 100 chapters in the United States, Canada, Australia, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, Guam, England, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Thailand and Netherlands.

Association of Recovering Motorcyclists
AbbreviationARM
MottoBefore the motorcycles come out of the garage, Before the bikes are fired up, We are here to support one another in our programs of recovery and abstinence.
Founded1986
Founded atWisconsin
TypeIndependent motorcycle association
PurposeARM is the world's largest clean and sober motorcycle association
Region
America, Australia, England, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Guam, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, Poland, Thailand, Netherlands
Websitewww.arm-intl.com

History

The group grew quickly in the 1980s, partly attributed to not being organized along the lines of an outlaw motorcycle club, according to Judy Jensen, such as by having the word "Independent" rather than "MC" (motorcycle club) under the ARM logo, avoiding conflict over territory or membership that would have discouraged members from joining.[1] Judy Jensen has also officiated at weddings, where she read from a Harley-Davidson owners manual on the "importance of a good union between the oil pump and the seal, and baptized the couple with a dab of motor oil.[1]

Structure

Members must meet certain standards of abstinence from drugs and alcohol in order to gain and retain membership status, and must own and maintain a motorcycle of 500 cc or greater. Members are required to be part of a 12-step program.

ARM and its sister organization, Recovering Women Riders (RWR), do not publish head counts, however, they state "there is always room for one more." A contingent of ARM members was among several sober motorcycle clubs that attended the 2006 Founders Day anniversary of AA founder Dr. Bob Smith's sobriety date, June 10, 1935.[2]

Notes
  1. Associated Press (24 July 1989), "Motorcyclists unite for the tough road back", Wisconsin State Journal, p. 1B
  2. Ethridge, Mary (12 June 2006), "Thankful for a second chance: Thousands visit grave of inspirational doctor as A.A. celebration ends after three days", Knight Ridder Tribune Business News, Washington, p. 1
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