Immediately after shutting down the bike’s engine, Oleg Kulikov changes his moto jacket for an old school denim vest and a bright neckcloth. A green sea turtle smiles on his back.
With dozens of bike weeks under his belt, Oleg is no stranger to the riding community of Thailand, but the turtle made its appearance only recently. It was April 2014 when Oleg and three of his friends established Real Turtles MCC to ride under their own name and symbol.
“Our faces were already well known, but people kept asking what club we were from. Finally, we decided to found our own,” Oleg says.
Currently, the club has seven full members and a huge support team of family members and friends who join bike trips and fun rides. On some of the days, Oleg on his 1200cc Honda leads the convoy of dozens of bikes and cars.
Surprisingly enough, motorcycle clubs and bike culture in general are quite new to Thailand. Big bikes became widely available just recently, but in a couple of decades, Thai riders developed a community with a unique atmosphere quite different to the stereotypical image of rough guys with guns, Harleys and tattoos.
“Thai riders are hearty and genial. They managed to bring their renowned tolerance to the bike world. In Europe, you can hardly expect bikers from competing gangs to sit at a table together having fun without any shade of conflict. But this is common in Thailand,” Oleg explain.
Foreigners are welcome as well, and Real Turtles regularly join rides organised by Honda Big Wing or BMW Motorrad. And interim Oleg and friends explore Southern Thailand visiting landmarks near and far. A proper bike trip is not a one-day affair, but time is spent well. Breathtaking sights, nice roads, speed, wind and the feeling of freedom make time fly.
Oleg assures that for an experienced rider Thai roads are safe enough and even more so when you travel with competent bikers alongside, and a four-wheeled support team closing the convoy’s rear.
When asked about joining the crew, he states that all you need is a bike, a big bike to be more precise. Tiny 125cc scooters are just not comfortable for long runs and – more importantly – not safe enough. A good maxi scooter or a 600cc cruiser would be better. Second, and by no means less important, is sharing ideas with the club members. A new rider can be accepted if (and only) recommended by an existing full-fledged member and unanymously supported by the club council.
“The club is a family of people sharing the same views. For Real Turtles these include living an active life, staying away from excessive drinking and reckless driving. If you feel it is for you – just call and join us for a trial ride.”
“In a sense the name of the club reflects our philosophy of riding; we are never in a hurry, riding safe and having fun”.
At the moment, Real Turtles are working on opening their club house, explaining that having your own plan is a strong requirement to entering the top league.
Other activities include visits to a local orphanage supported by the Turtles, and of course lots of riding, riding and more riding.
To learn more about Real Turtles MCC and take part in their activities email Oleg Kulikov at oldbatton@gmail.com.
For pictures and VDOs join Real Turtles MCC group on Facebook.