Bill Bish

Bill Bish: A Lifetime of Advocacy and Passion for Motorcycling

Bill Bish is a name that resonates deeply within the motorcycle community, and for good reason. With over 30 years of dedication to the world of motorcycling, Bill has become a tireless advocate for riders’ rights, a seasoned journalist, and a voice for the biker community. His journey from former Marine to one of the most-read motorcycle columnists in the world is marked by passion, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the motorcycling lifestyle.

Bill’s journey in motorcycling advocacy began in 1987, when he took on the role of National Director for Bikers Against Manslaughter (BAM), a position he held until 1992. During this time, he worked relentlessly to bring attention to motorcyclists’ safety and rights. He also became a key figure in the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF), serving on its Steering Committee and shaping policies that would impact riders across the country.

Following his impactful work with BAM and the MRF, Bill’s career took him to Easyriders Magazine, where he became Director of their Bros Club. His role at the magazine allowed him to further connect with the biker community while advocating for rider rights on a larger platform. His influence continued to grow, especially as he took on leadership roles such as State Director of ABATE of California, where he worked to ensure that California’s motorcyclists were heard and protected.

In 1996, Bill was appointed Executive Director of the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM). For five years, he led the organization, striving to unite motorcyclists under a common goal of preserving their freedoms and rights on the road. Even after stepping down as director in 2001, Bill remains an active board member of NCOM, continuing to shape the future of motorcycling advocacy.

In 2001, Bill made a pivotal decision to move his family from Los Angeles to Cleveland, Ohio. This move marked a new chapter in his life, but it did not slow down his activism. Bill went on to serve three terms as State Director of ABATE/Concerned Motorcycle Riders of Ohio, a role in which he continued his mission of defending riders' rights and fighting for their freedom on the open road.

Today, Bill Bish’s influence extends far beyond state lines. Together with his wife, Darlene, he publishes Ridin’ On Motorcycle Magazine, a publication that has become a staple in the biking community. Through the magazine, Bill continues to reach and engage motorcyclists on issues that matter to them. But perhaps his most widespread influence comes through his work on the NCOM Biker Newsbytes column, which he writes for various motorcycle publications, websites, and motorcycle rights organizations (MRO) newsletters. His column reaches an estimated one million readers every month, making Bill the most-read motorcycle columnist on the planet.

Bill’s contributions to motorcycling have not gone unnoticed. Over the years, he has earned numerous awards that recognize his dedication and hard work, including:

• Ron Roloff Lifetime Achievement Award (2000), NCOM’s highest honor, awarded for his lifelong commitment to the motorcycling community.

• Freedom Fighter of the Year (2001), ABATE of California’s highest award, honoring Bill’s outstanding advocacy for rider rights.

• NCOM Silver Spoke Award for Media (2008), a prestigious award acknowledging his impact on the motorcycling world through journalism.

Bill Bish’s legacy is one of relentless dedication and passion for motorcyclists’ rights. His work has shaped the future of motorcycling advocacy, and he continues to educate and mobilize bikers across the globe. From his leadership roles to his column read by millions, Bill remains at the forefront of the fight for motorcyclists’ freedoms and rights.

As the most-read motorcycle columnist in the world, Bill Bish’s voice continues to inspire and empower bikers everywhere. His influence, leadership, and commitment to the motorcycling community will be felt for generations to come.