Keith "Bandit" Ball
Keith Ball: The Renaissance Man of Motorcycling
In the world of motorcycling, few figures have worn as many hats as Keith Ball. From being a dedicated biker and freedom fighter to an accomplished author and publisher, Keith has left an indelible mark on the motorcycle community. His versatility and passion for the open road have made him a revered figure among riders and enthusiasts alike.
A Pioneer in Motorcyclists' Rights
In 1971, Keith took on a monumental challenge: he was hired to run the first national motorcyclists’ rights organization, ABATE (A Brotherhood Against Totalitarian Enactments). Under his leadership, ABATE flourished, growing into the largest grassroots motorcycle organization in the world. With 28 chapters and approximately 50,000 members, ABATE became a formidable advocate for bikers’ rights, ensuring that the voices of motorcyclists were heard and respected. Today, the organization remains a vital force in the ongoing struggle for motorcyclists' freedoms, and much of that can be traced back to Keith's foundational work.
Shaping Motorcycle Media
Around the same time, Keith became associate editor and the first full-time employee of a fledgling motorcycle magazine called Easyriders. His influence soon expanded as he became editor and ultimately the editorial director of 14 titles, including well-known publications like In the Wind, Biker, and VQ. Under Keith's guidance, Easyriders transformed into what many dubbed the “biker's bible,” achieving a staggering monthly circulation of 550,000. His keen insights and engaging writing style not only captivated readers but also helped define biker culture for generations.
A Passion for Storytelling
Despite his success in the realm of motorcycle journalism, Keith’s ambitions extended beyond editing and publishing. He pursued a long-held dream of writing fiction, completing three motorcycle adventure novels over eight years. His narratives encapsulate the thrill of riding and the spirit of freedom that defines the biker lifestyle, resonating with riders who live for the open road.
A Digital Pioneer
In the digital age, Keith continued to innovate by launching BikerNet.com, a comprehensive website catering to the motorcycle community. The platform offers a wealth of resources, including technical materials, classifieds, riding tales, event coverage, and legislative information. By creating this online hub, Keith has ensured that motorcyclists have access to vital information and a sense of community, regardless of where they are in the world.
Crafting Bikes with Passion
In addition to his writing and advocacy work, Keith also dedicates his time to building motorcycles, creating a couple of innovative bikes each year. Always on the cutting edge, his custom builds reflect his deep understanding of bike mechanics and design, merging functionality with artistry.
A Lasting Legacy
Keith Ball embodies the spirit of motorcycling—a blend of freedom, creativity, and community. His contributions to motorcyclists’ rights, journalism, storytelling, and bike building have not only shaped the motorcycle industry but also inspired countless riders to embrace their passion. As a true renaissance man of the biking world, Keith continues to tackle challenges with the same fervor and ease that have defined his remarkable career. Whether through the pages of a magazine, the chapters of a novel, or the roar of a custom-built bike, Keith’s legacy is a testament to the enduring spirit of motorcycling and the bonds forged along the way.