Knights of the asphalt: your guide to Templar gear for bikers

The Templar biker jacket: your modern coat of arms

The open road calls to a certain kind of spirit, one that understands brotherhood, loyalty, and a code of conduct that transcends the written law. In many ways, the modern biker shares a spiritual lineage with the knights of old. The steel steed has replaced the warhorse, and the endless asphalt is the new frontier. For those who feel this connection, particularly to the legendary Knights Templar, expressing that ethos through their gear is a powerful statement. At the heart of this modern-day uniform is the biker jacket, a piece of apparel that is both practical armor and a personal banner.

A high-quality leather jacket is the quintessential piece of biker attire. It’s a shield against the wind, the road, and the elements. But for a rider inspired by the Templars, it becomes so much more—it’s a modern-day coat of arms. The choice of black leather is classic, evoking a sense of rebellion and strength, but it also serves as a perfect canvas for the stark, powerful symbolism of the Templar order. The deep black allows the iconic red cross to stand out with striking clarity, a beacon of purpose against the darkness.

So, what transforms a standard riding jacket into a Templar statement? It’s all in the details and the deliberate use of sacred symbols:

• The Iconic Cross: The most recognizable symbol is, of course, the Templar cross, often a Cross Pattée with arms that are narrow at the center and flare outwards. Placed prominently on the back, it turns your jacket into a modern surcoat, announcing your principles to the world. A smaller version on the chest or sleeve offers a more subtle nod to the Order. The vibrant red of the cross traditionally symbolizes the blood of martyrdom, a willingness to sacrifice for one’s beliefs—a sentiment that resonates deeply with the risks and rewards of life on two wheels.
• Subtle Symbolism: Beyond the cross, other elements can be integrated. The motto “Non Nobis Domine, Non Nobis, Sed Nomini Tuo Da Gloriam” (“Not to us, Lord, not to us, but to your name give the glory”) can be embroidered along a collar, cuff, or even on the inner lining. This powerful phrase serves as a personal reminder of humility and purpose, core tenets of the original warrior monks.
• Customization and Quality: Whether you choose an off-the-rack jacket with pre-applied designs or opt for a fully custom piece, quality is paramount. Look for thick, durable leather, reinforced stitching, and sturdy zippers. A custom-painted or embossed design, such as the Seal of the Knights Templar (two knights on a single horse), can create a truly unique and personal piece of armor that will last for decades of riding.

Your jacket is your first line of defense and your primary means of expression. By choosing to adorn it with Templar insignia, you are not merely wearing a design; you are carrying a legacy of honor, discipline, and unwavering conviction on every journey you undertake.

Patches and emblems: wearing your allegiance

In both knightly and biker culture, heraldry and insignia are everything. A knight’s shield told you his lineage and loyalties. Similarly, a biker’s patches, often called “colors,” tell a story of who they are, where they’ve been, and what they stand for. For the Templar-inspired rider, patches are the perfect medium to display allegiance to a historical code of chivalry, transforming a simple vest or jacket into a rich tapestry of meaning.

Understanding the significance of these emblems is key to wearing them with the respect they deserve. Each patch carries centuries of history and symbolism, speaking a language of honor that fellow enthusiasts will immediately recognize.

Here are some of the most profound and popular Templar patches and their meanings:

• The Cross Pattée: As mentioned, this is the cornerstone of Templar identity. As a patch, it’s versatile. A large back patch makes an undeniable statement of faith and principle. Smaller versions can be placed on the front of a vest or the shoulder of a jacket. It represents sacrifice, faith, and the martial prowess of the Order.
• The Seal of Two Knights: This powerful image depicts two knights sharing a single horse. Historically, it symbolized the Order’s vow of poverty and their deep sense of brotherhood. For a modern biker, it’s a perfect emblem of camaraderie—the idea of looking out for your fellow riders, sharing the load, and being part of something larger than yourself. This patch is often chosen by members of riding clubs to signify their unity.
• The Agnus Dei (Lamb of God): A less common but historically significant symbol, the Agnus Dei shows a lamb holding a flag bearing a cross. This was another early seal of the Templars and represents Christ, innocence, and gentleness, providing a powerful contrast to the warrior image of the knights. Wearing this patch speaks to the protective, guardian aspect of the Templar mission.
• The Beauceant: The Templar battle standard was a simple black-and-white flag. The black section symbolized the sin and darkness of the world, while the white symbolized the purity and light of the Order. A patch inspired by the Beauceant is a declaration of duality—a recognition of the world’s harsh realities while striving to be a force for good within it. It’s a subtle yet profound symbol for the thinking rider.

When applying these patches, consider the established traditions of biker culture. A large patch on the back is typically the central piece. Smaller patches on the front of a vest or jacket can denote specific beliefs, travels, or affiliations. Whether you ride alone or with a club, these emblems are more than decoration. They are a public declaration of your personal code, a bridge connecting the chivalrous past with the open road of today.

Beyond the jacket: chivalrous riding accessories

A true knight’s regalia extended far beyond his surcoat and shield. Every piece of his equipment, from his helmet to his gauntlets, was both functional and a reflection of his status and beliefs. For the modern Templar biker, this principle holds true. Extending the theme to your riding accessories completes the aesthetic and deepens the connection to the chivalric code, turning your entire presence into a cohesive statement.

These accessories blend modern-day safety and utility with timeless Templar symbolism, allowing you to carry the spirit of the Order into every aspect of your ride.

• Helmets and Headgear: Your helmet is arguably the most critical piece of safety gear, but it’s also a prime canvas for personalization. A custom paint job featuring a stylized Templar cross, the Beauceant’s black-and-white motif, or even subtle filigree inspired by medieval armor can transform a standard helmet into a modern-day helm. For a less permanent option, high-quality vinyl decals offer a way to display your allegiance. Even a simple bandana worn under the helmet can feature Templar crosses or patterns.
• Riding Gloves: The modern equivalent of a knight’s gauntlets, riding gloves are essential for protection and control. Look for sturdy leather gloves that can be subtly customized. An embossed Cross Pattée on the cuff or a small, stitched red cross on the back of the hand adds a touch of chivalrous flair without compromising function. It’s a detail that speaks of quiet confidence and attention to detail.
• Rings and Pendants: The Knights Templar used signet rings to seal official documents. Today, a rider can wear a stainless steel or silver ring bearing the Templar seal or cross as a personal emblem of their commitment to the code. A simple cross pendant worn around the neck is another timeless way to keep the symbolism close. This personal jewelry connects you to the tradition in a way that is both intimate and powerful.
• Adorning Your Steed: Your motorcycle is your trusted mount, and it too can be part of your Templar uniform. Custom tank decals, fender emblems, or a sissy bar medallion featuring Templar insignia integrate your bike into the theme. This practice hearkens back to knights adorning their horse’s barding with their heraldry, creating a unified and formidable appearance.
• Wallets, Belts, and Buckles: Everyday carry items offer another avenue for expression. A tooled leather wallet with a Templar cross, or a heavy-duty belt with a custom-cast buckle featuring the Seal of the Knights, ensures that your commitment to the ethos is part of your identity, both on and off the bike.

By thoughtfully curating your accessories, you elevate your gear from a simple collection of clothing to a complete, modern-day knightly ensemble. Each piece, from your helmet to your gloves, becomes a part of the story you tell on the road—a story of honor, brotherhood, and a timeless quest for purpose.