What is a Rat Bike?
A rat bike is a motorcycle that has undergone heavy modification, aiming to look and perform in a way that mainstream motorcyclists consider unappealing. The "rat" in the name refers to the bike’s rough, unfinished appearance achieved by using cheap or salvaged parts and intentional neglect of maintenance. Rat bikes are often associated with biker gangs and subcultures that reject notions of style and conformity.
History of Rat Bikes
The roots of rat bikes can be traced back to counterculture movements of the 1960s and 1970s. Enthusiasts embraced the idea that a motorcycle’s beauty lies in its raw form and intentionally allowed their bikes to deteriorate and weather. The aged appearance became the hallmark of rat bikes, illustrating a story of adventure and individuality, reflecting the owner’s personality.
Characteristics of Rat Bikes
Rat bikes are typically made from scrap parts of different brands, often spray-painted in camo or matte black to cover rust. They are pieced together from various components, prioritizing function over aesthetics. The appearance of rat bikes evokes imagery of post-apocalyptic worlds, and in countries like Russia, many Soviet-era motorcycles have transformed into rat bikes in village garages, symbolizing the rugged rebel lifestyle.