Jewish bikers roar into Shabbos

As 750 Harley Davidson riders gathered for their first Montagu Rally in three years from 9 to 12 February, so too did the sprinkling of Jewish riders.

In the past, we’ve done our best to contact Jewish riders before the rally, mostly from the Free Chapter in Cape Town and a few smaller clubs, so that we can have a Shabbat dinner together.

It has become an evening of camaraderie, friendship, and discussion. Last weekend didn’t disappoint.

The late Chief Rabbi Cyril Harris commented that the South African Jewish community was extraordinary. Even those within the community who aren’t religious invariably still belong to an Orthodox synagogue and try their utmost to uphold traditions.

The Jewish Harley Davidson riders very much fit this mould.

The small contingent gathered, and discussions ensued similar to that around the country in Jewish homes. We discussed last week’s parsha, which dealt with the structure of setting up justice and the administration of law. Those of us who are practicing attorneys certainly found the discussion interesting.

Though one imagines Harley riders to be heavily bearded, tattooed, and rough rally riders, this wasn’t the case with our Shabbat gathering. Although many individuals attending the rally could fit that bill, the majority were middle aged and older and gathered to celebrate their love for motorbiking and the Harley Davidson brand.

This little gathering has become almost as much a part of the Montagu Rally as the magnificent Cape Route 62 that the riders follow that meanders through the most scenic areas between Cape Town, Oudtshoorn, the Langkloof, and Gqeberha.

• Michael Bagraim is a member of parliament and deputy shadow minister for employment and labour.