Rick Nail

Rick Nail: A Lifetime Champion for Motorcyclists’ Rights

Raised in a family with a passion for riding, Rick Nail's connection to motorcycles began early. In the early 1970s, Rick was a member of the Tarheel Stompers, a motorcycle club in Charlotte, North Carolina. Experiencing discrimination firsthand as a rider, Rick, along with a small group of friends, decided to take action. In 1971, they founded the Concerned Bikers Association (CBA), which would become North Carolina’s first and only motorcyclist rights organization. Modeled loosely on the goals of ABATE, the CBA began as a grassroots, one-town movement that would eventually grow to represent the state’s entire riding community.

Initially serving as vice-president of the CBA alongside one of his club brothers, Rick quickly recognized the potential for the organization to become something greater. In 1973, he hung up his club patches to fully commit himself to the cause of motorcyclist rights. As president of the Charlotte Chapter, and effectively the state president, Rick played a pivotal role in expanding the CBA. Under his leadership, chapters across the state were formed, and he successfully unified them under a cohesive organizational structure with a constitution and bylaws.

Rick's dedication to the movement was unwavering. He served as state president for an impressive 18 years, devoting his personal time and money to keep the CBA growing and fighting for a safer, more equitable landscape for North Carolina's motorcyclists. His leadership transformed the Charlotte chapter’s bike show and swap meet into a massive, two-day event held twice a year, becoming one of the most successful fundraisers on the eastern seaboard. The event's success enabled the CBA to send representatives to national and regional conferences, further expanding their influence and knowledge.

Rick’s presence at the first Motorcycle Rider’s Foundation (MRF) Conference in St. Louis, Missouri, marked the beginning of CBA’s ongoing participation in national discussions about motorcyclist rights. Under his leadership, the organization also gained a seat at the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM), where Rick served as a member of the board of directors. His national influence helped connect the CBA with broader advocacy efforts across the country.

During his tenure, Rick also formalized the organization’s operations by incorporating the CBA and adding “ABATE” to its name, strengthening its legal and financial foundation. By the time he stepped down as president to focus on family, there were over 20 chapters across the state, a solid financial base, and a well-structured organization ready to continue the fight for riders’ rights.

Rick’s ability to mentor and empower others has left a lasting legacy. He identified and nurtured leaders within the organization, sending members to lobby both in North Carolina and Washington, D.C. His leadership style—encouraging others to "be all they can be"—inspired many to rise to leadership positions. As a result, CBA/ABATE of NC has produced six board members who have gone on to serve in NCOM and MRF on a national level, making a significant impact on motorcyclist advocacy across the country.

Though he has stepped back from day-to-day leadership, Rick remains deeply involved in the movement. As a Director Emeritus on the board of CBA/ABATE of NC, he and his wife Myra continue to be active in motorcyclist rights at the chapter, state, and national levels. Rick still manages the organization's major swap meet, attends and participates in meetings, and provides valuable guidance based on his decades of experience.

Rick Nail’s contributions to the motorcyclist rights movement have been immense, and his legacy of leadership, advocacy, and brotherhood continues to inspire riders throughout North Carolina and beyond. His ability to lead by example and his relentless commitment to the cause have ensured that the CBA/ABATE of NC remains a powerful force for freedom on two wheels.