History

The Concerned Bikers Association was formed in 1971 by a group of bikers in Charlotte, NC. A mandatory helmet law, which was enacted in 1967, and the 1971 passage of a twenty-four hour motorcycle headlight law made the motorcyclist suddenly aware that there was no one in NC helping to protect their rights. The purpose of CBA was and still is to promote fair motorcycle legislation and to repeal existing unfair legislation. The group banded together to help foster a sense of brotherhood and to improve the public image of motorcyclists.

George McLeod was the first President of CBA. The first meeting was held at Stan's Chopper House, a local bike shop in Charlotte. Dale Lucky was the first CBA lobbyist who went to Raleigh representing CBA. George McLeod resigned as President in 1972 with Rick Nail taking over the position. After contact with A.B.A.T.E. (American Bikers Aimed Toward Education) of Virginia, CBA decided to join and in 1973 became CBA/A.B.A.T.E. The first Constitution was written in 1973. Dale Lucky resigned as Legislative Coordinator in 1974 and Attorney William "Piggy" Potter, a professional lobbyist was hired in 1974. The first helmet protest was held in 1974. By 1985, CBA had grown to 12 chapters. In 1986, there was great change for CBA. Chapters and members wanted to become more involved on a state level, which mean reorganization was necessary. The Constitution was rewritten, the state was divided into 3 districts and state officers were elected.

Attorney Richard Lester of California formed the National Coalition of Motorcyclists in 1986. The coalition was formed to help protect bikers as consumers, help establish rider education programs, build a legislative data bank, train people on legislative strategies and to help protect the rights of the injured riders. CBA joined the organization that year and Rick Nail was appointed as Regional Co-Advisor for Region VI in 1987.

Through the late 80's and all through the 90's, CBA has stayed politically active. Each year that passed there were more and more people participating. Officers changed and members changed but the goal remained the same. CBA and the Motorcycle Riders Foundation had worked along with Dr. Al King to establish a Motorcycle Safety Education Program in NC.