A strong sense of camaraderie is what to expect if you get involved with Dixie State University’s Motorcycle Club.
Rahim Andersen, a sophomore business major from Las Vegas, has been its president since the Motorcycle Club renewed its club status during the fall 2014 semester.
He said one of the best parts of being involved is getting people together who share a passion. He said a great part of the club is having the opportunity to go on group rides because a lot of people want to ride as a group but don’t get the chance.
“When you’re out riding alone it’s one thing, but when there are fifteen bikes behind you, it’s a totally different feeling,” Andersen said.
Ashton Vandermyde, a junior finance major from West Jordan, is the vice president of the club.
Vandermyde said one of his favorite things about being involved is getting together with people who share a similar interest.
“Outside of motorcycles, a lot of us are very different people,” Vandermyde said. “Once we get riding, we all become the same.”
A memorable ride was when the club drove through Zion’s National Park last March, Andersen said. The club gathered about 16 bikes to drive through the park, get some lunch, and stop to enjoy the scenery.
“It was just a really beautiful ride,” Andersen said.
Vandermyde said there is sometimes a bad stigma surrounding motorcycle clubs, and they hope to improve the image. The club is involved with the community and has organized several service projects. He said it is rewarding to feel like the club is making a difference and helping people out.
The club organized a charity event partnered with the Make a Wish Foundation, Andersen said. It included a silent auction, breakfast, and bike ride on the Gunlock route. After the ride, a couple of families spoke about how the foundation had impacted them. The club ended up raising about $500.
“It was really a heartwarming day,” Andersen said.
The club meets on the second and fourth Saturday of every month at 10 a.m. in the North Plaza Building parking lot. Andersen said whether you own a bike or just want to be a passenger, everyone is invited to participate.
The Motorcycle Club can be found on Dixie State’s OrgSync page. To get updates on events, Andersen said they post frequently on Facebook under DSU Motorcycle Club.
Vandermyde said the club is a great way to make friends quickly.
“It’s an enjoyable experience,” Vandermyde said.
