What “22” Means in Biker Culture

Among bikers, “22” most commonly signifies the letter V—the 22nd letter of the alphabet—used as shorthand for the Vagos Motorcycle Club on “Support 22” gear; it’s also widely recognized in charity rides and patches referencing “22 a day,” a long-used statistic about veteran suicide. The meaning isn’t universal, though, and context—colors, patches, and accompanying words—determines what “22” is meant to convey in any given setting.

Where the Number Comes From

Numeric codes are part of long-standing motorcycle club culture: numbers map to letters (1=A, 2=B, …, 26=Z). In that system, 22 corresponds to V. Supporters of the Vagos Motorcycle Club—whose identifiers often include green coloring—frequently use “22” on clothing, stickers, or small patches to signal affiliation or support without spelling out the club name. As with other supporter codes (for example, “81” for Hells Angels), “22” is typically used on support merchandise and does not by itself imply membership.

The “22 a Day” Symbol in Rides and Patches

Separate from club shorthand, “22” has become a rallying symbol for veteran suicide awareness—popularized by campaigns asserting that an average of 22 U.S. veterans die by suicide each day. Motorcycle communities across the U.S. organize charity rides and display patches and decals with “22” to raise funds and attention for veteran mental health services. While the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ most recent annual reports estimate the current average closer to the high teens per day, “22” remains a widely recognized emblem for the cause and is used in event names and remembrance rides.

Other, Less Common Uses

Outside of Vagos shorthand and veteran-awareness campaigns, riders sometimes use “22” for more personal or local reasons. The following examples illustrate how the number can appear without any club or cause attached.

• Racing number: Some road racers and superbike riders have used #22, and fans occasionally mirror a favorite rider’s number on helmets or track-day gear.
• Caliber slang: A nod to .22 caliber in shooting sports; in a biker context, it’s more casual wordplay than a recognized code.
• Local identity: References to a state or county Route 22, a “Double Deuce” roadhouse/event, or a club’s 22nd anniversary.
• Personal numerology: Birthdates, lucky numbers, or milestone markers chosen by individual riders.

When “22” appears without club colors, logos, or advocacy language, it’s often just a personal marker or a local in-joke rather than a signal with subcultural weight.

How to Read the Context

Because “22” can mean different things, the surrounding cues usually tell the story. The checklist below highlights common indicators riders and observers use to interpret it accurately.

• Colors and themes: Green motifs alongside “22” often indicate Vagos support; camo, U.S. flags, or memorial language point toward veteran-awareness usage.
• Accompanying text: Phrases like “Support 22,” “Support Your Local,” or “VFFV” (Vagos Forever, Forever Vagos) suggest club support; “22 a Day,” “Ride for 22,” or “Stop Soldier Suicide” indicate advocacy.
• Placement and format: Small support patches, hat pins, and decals tend to signal club support; event T‑shirts, ride banners, and charity flyers point to awareness campaigns.
• Geography and event context: At MC clubhouse fundraisers, numbers usually denote support; at veterans’ rides or memorial routes, they mark the cause.

Taken together, these cues make the intended meaning clear in most real-world settings, helping avoid misunderstanding or unintended signaling.

Legal and Safety Considerations

Wearing any number tied to a motorcycle club can be misread, especially if paired with colors, cuts, or phrases associated with a specific MC. Support gear is legal to buy and wear in most places, but it can carry social implications among clubs and at certain events. If your aim is veteran advocacy rather than club support, keep the messaging explicit (e.g., “22 a Day” or the name of the charity) to avoid confusion. As always, local norms—and respect—matter.

Summary

“22” in biker circles most often denotes V (the 22nd letter) and functions as shorthand for Vagos MC support; it’s also a prominent emblem in rides and patches for veteran suicide awareness. Beyond those, it can be a racer’s number, a caliber reference, or simply personal symbolism. Read the colors, wording, and event context to know which meaning applies.

What are the biker codes?

The “biker code” is a set of unwritten principles emphasizing loyalty, honor, respect, and community among riders, centered on core values like family, integrity, and mutual support. It involves treating fellow bikers and others with respect, taking care of each other, upholding the integrity of one’s motorcycle, and embodying a spirit of freedom and unity. Key aspects include the “two-finger low wave” to acknowledge other riders and a general commitment to “no rider left behind” and “no nonsense” in social interactions. 
Core Principles of the Biker Code

• Family First: Bikers are fiercely protective of their fellow riders, viewing them as a chosen family. 
• Honor and Integrity: This includes being honest, straightforward, and holding oneself accountable for actions. 
• Respect for the Bike: A motorcycle is more than a machine; it’s a symbol of a rider’s identity, deserving of care and honor. 
• No Rider Left Behind: Bikers are expected to help fellow riders who are in distress or in need. 
• “No Nonsense”: This principle encourages riders to be direct, to avoid drama, and to stand by their convictions. 
• Loyalty and Brotherhood: A deep commitment to fellow riders, built on shared experiences and mutual support. 

Examples of the Biker Code in Action

• The Biker Wave: The two-finger low wave or a nod is a gesture of acknowledgement and respect between riders, signifying they are part of the same community. 
• Community Involvement: The code often inspires bikers to participate in charity rides, support causes, and contribute positively to their communities. 
• Personal Accountability: Riders are encouraged to use common sense, listen to their conscience, and be responsible for their own choices. 

Beyond the Surface 

• A Way of Life: For many, the Biker Code is not just a set of rules but a philosophy that guides their behavior on and off the road, fostering unity and compassion.
• Values: The code represents values such as freedom, respect, loyalty, and a desire to make the world a better place.

What does 13 mean to bikers?

To bikers, the number 13 can represent different things, but it most often symbolizes rebellion, outlaw status, or membership in a motorcycle club, by representing the letter M. The M stands for the mother chapter of a club, the first club members, or even drugs like marijuana or methamphetamine. Alternatively, it can represent the 13 original outlaw clubs that broke away from the American Motorcycle Association (AMA).
 
Here’s a breakdown of the common meanings:

• The Letter M: In the outlaw motorcycle club (MC) community, 13 is often used to stand for the letter M, which is the 13th letter of the alphabet. The “M” can then represent: 
  • Marijuana or Methamphetamine: A signification of drug use or involvement. 
  • Mother Chapter: The original charter and birthplace of an MC. 
  • Motorcycle: A simple, direct meaning. 
• Rebellion and Outsider Status: The number 13 is associated with the concept of the “1%er culture,” a term for outlaw motorcycle clubs that rejected the rules of the AMA. Wearing a 13 patch can be a symbol of being an outsider and embracing a counter-cultural identity. 
• Historical Significance:
  • Original Outlaw Clubs: Some sources claim the number 13 represents the 13 original outlaw MCs that broke away from the AMA to form the foundation of the 1%er culture. 
  • The Noose and Gallows: Other interpretations suggest it’s a symbol of rebellion, referencing the 13 loops in a hanging noose or the 13 steps on gallows, meaning the wearer would rather hang than betray their brothers. 
• Deep Roots in the MC World: The 13 patch signifies a deep connection to the outlaw motorcycle club world, representing allegiance, honor, or a high level of respect earned through action. 

What does 21 mean for bikers?

The club is also known as the “Blue Gang”, and uses the abbreviation “21” (the numbers stand for the respective positions in the alphabet of B and A). Blue Angels mottos include “Blue Angels forever, forever Blue Angels (“BAFFBA”); “Blue Angels OK”; “Blue Gang forever” (“BGF”); and “Blue Angels, best in the west”.

What does 69 mean to bikers?

To bikers, the number 69 can mean different things, but if worn on a patch, it generally signifies a link to the act of oral sex, as well as the substance Marijuana or the drug Methamphetamine. However, there is also a reference to a different meaning of 69 within the biker culture that may not be immediately obvious. 
Context is Key
The meaning of a number or symbol depends on its context and who is wearing it. 

• The Vague “69”: Some sources suggest that the number 69 does have an obvious connotation.
• A “Risky” Patch: A diamond shape is also a risky choice as it can be associated with bike gangs and clubs.

Potential Misunderstandings 

• One should not wear a “69” patch without understanding the implications or implications in the biker world: This could send the wrong message to other bikers.

What to do if you encounter 69 

• If you encounter the number 69, it is best to be aware of the potential implications.
• If you are unsure, it is always best to err on the side of caution.