A Gremlin Bell is a small bell attached to the handlebars or frame of a motorcycle. It is believed to protect motorcyclists from evil spirits and ward off negative energies. It is nearly always given as a gift to friends or loved ones for good luck. It is one of the popular traditions in motorcycle culture, which gained popularity with time. However, proper maintenance is essential for it to be effective, as per superstition.
Gremlin Bells Importance in the motorcycle culture
There are several reasons why Gremlin Bells are considered important –
- Protection: Major number of Motorcyclists believe that Gremlin Bells protect them from bad luck and act as a guardian spirit. It watches the rider while riding and wards off negative energies that come on the way.
- Tradition: Gremlin Bells are given to new or experienced riders as a gift by friends and family as a sign of encouragement. Giving and receiving have become a tradition now in the motorcycle culture.
- Symbolism: The shape of the bell, its material, and the place where it is placed have significant symbolism. The bell is made out of brass which is believed to have protective properties, and the shape is like a guardian bell. When placed on the front at the lowest point, it is believed to catch all the negative energies of the riders.
- Superstition: Over time, the Gremlin Bell has gained a lot of superstition. It is said that when it is removed from the motorcycle, the rider is vulnerable to accidents. He might also face breakdowns or similar mishaps. Motorcyclists never remove it and take great care to ensure it remains properly attached.
Origins of Gremlin Bells
Gremlin Bells originated in the United States in the mid-20th century. According to a legend, Marcus “Bell” Hegan, a Vietnam War veteran, was riding a Harley-Davidson motorcycle when a tiny gremlin came his way that caused the bike to crash. Once Hegan recovered from injuries, he designed a small bell made out of brass and attached it to his motorcycle to ward off gremlins. He then created other bells and started giving them to another rider. The tradition of providing gremlin bells began from there.
Rules for owning a Gremlin Bell
Below are some of the rules of owning a Gremlin Bell –
- Gifting Tradition Rule: The bell should never be purchased and should always be given as a gift by a friend or loved one.
- Placement Rule: The bell should always be placed at the lowest location of the motorcycle, close to the ground. Gremlins should hear the. It should never touch the ground as it could nullify its protective powers.
- Respect Rule: As the bell is a symbol of good luck and protection, it should always be treated with respect and care.
- Falling Off Rule: If the bell falls off, it is believed that the bell has done its task of warding off the gremlin successfully.
- Transfer Rule: The bell should be removed from the motorcycle before selling it off. It should then be transferred to the new motorcycle.
- Ringing Rule: Some riders ring the bell before stating the motorcycle. This is done to signal to the gremlins that they are not welcome.
- Installation Rule: The bell should always be fastened on the motorcycle securely with a zip tie or something similar. One should ensure it does not fall off.
- Cleaning Rule: A rider should always clean the bell, keep it in good condition, and respect its protective powers.
Top Gremlin Bell Brands, Prices and Where to Buy
| Brand | Price | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Guardian Bell | $10-$20 | Amazon, Walmart, J&P Cycles |
| Ride Bell | $15-$30 | Amazon, Harley-Davidson dealerships |
| BellRider | $10-$15 | Amazon, Motorcycle Superstore |
| Evil Spirits | $10-$20 | Amazon, Cycle Gear |
| Gremlin Bells | $10-$20 | Amazon, J&P Cycles, Biker’s Choice |
| IronBraid | $15-$25 | Amazon, IronBraid.com |
| Kuryakyn | $20-$30 | Amazon, Kuryakyn.com |
| Show Chrome Accessories | $10-$20 | Amazon, Cyclemax |
| Spirit Beads | $5-$15 | Amazon, Etsy, eBay |
| Wildthings | $10-$20 | Amazon, J&P Cycles, Wildthingsinc.com |
Gremlin Bell FAQs
Are Gremlin Bells only for Harleys?
Though Gremlin Bells have a strong tradition for Harley Davidson riders, riders of other motorcycles or ADV also hand it on to their bikes. The bell is a symbol of protection and good luck and is used by riders of all types of bikes like a Harley, Honda, Yamaha, etc.
Can a Gremlin Bell be purchased for oneself?
No, one cannot purchase a Gremlin bell as it is believed to bring bad luck. It should only be given as a gift by a friend or loved one.
What should be done if a Gremlin Bell falls off?
If the bell falls off, the gremlin is believed to have worked and done its task. The bell should be cleaned and reattached to the motorcycle.
Can a Gremlin Bell be transferred to a new motorcycle?
Yes, if the owner sells his motorcycle or gives it away, the bell should be removed and transferred to a new motorcycle.
