Chapter 10 Summary and Analysis

Thompson arrived at the appointed assembly area driving his car. He discovered most Hell's Angels had already departed; but there were many individuals from another motorcycle gang—the Gypsy Jokers—milling around awaiting departure. Thompson sensed hostility from the group until some familiar Hell's Angels appeared. He was surprised to see them without their girlfriends or wives. They informed him that they were expecting serious trouble on the run and had left their women behind.

Thompson accompanied the run as it traveled through various small rural towns. The motorcycle outlaws were scrupulously observant of local laws. They wanted to avoid legal troubles because spending the weekend in jail is decidedly not fun. The media and California law enforcement had notified all of the towns; and the residents appeared ready and alarmed.