Have you ever noticed the whips or cords that hang in front of Harleys and other bikes? They’re called get-back whips, and old-fashioned riders often hang those braided leather cords from the handlebars (or brake lever or clutch lever) for self-defense, hence the name “get-back.” Riders face a variety of obstacles along the way, and a crack of the return whip can keep stray dogs, stray strangers and errant bikers at bay, all without losing control of the bike.
However, the origins of recovery whips go far beyond defensive motives. Some vintage bicycles did not have turn signals, and waving the whip was a primitive but effective way for the rider to communicate with the driver behind him. Hand gestures distinguish novices from professional riders, but we have to admit, cracking a whip sounds cooler and makes you look tougher.
When the purpose of those whips shifted from practical, everyday use to improvised weapons, bikers had to overcome legal restrictions while preserving the symbolism and heritage associated with them, which they did by using other materials such as ropes or fabric with tassels or fringes on the end instead of leather. If you’re a novice cyclist, suspension cords should be secondary to riding gear essentials, but it’s a way to personalize or give your bike your own look.
Decorative and utility purposes
Hanging whips on the handlebars may not be as over-the-top as a dragon-inspired Harley Electra Glide Classic, but those cords also serve purposes other than making your bike look cooler. Cords made of colorful or reflective materials make the motorcycle more visible on the road, providing an additional safety feature while adding a customized look to your bike.
For some people, custom whips signify an achievement, an unforgettable riding journey, a rite of passage, a symbol of brotherhood or sisterhood, or a tribute to a fellow rider or a lost friend. A whip can also signify the rider’s rank in a group, or whips with feathers, wooden beads, and other accessories can imply the rider’s cultural or spiritual beliefs.
Are get-back whips road legal?
In some cases, such as in California, retrieval whips are fine as long as the length does not exceed 18 inches. And in Texas, it’s fine to hang whips or cords from handlebars as long as they’re no longer than 12 inches. When opting for recyclable whips, opt for something made from synthetic or lighter materials and keep the length reasonable so as not to compromise safety.
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