CNS PHOTO | DAVE CRENSHAW Charlie Hoy, a member of the Knights on Bikes, proudly displays patches on his vest.

Members of the Knights on Bikes are adamant that they are not a “bike gang.”

While they proudly wear a vest with a patch, they claim no territory like a traditional motorcycle club.

Instead, as an extension of the larger ministry of the Knights of Columbus, the group is a family friendly organization that serves the Catholic Church and the community through a common interest in riding motorcycles.

It is a motorcycle ministry dedicated to improving the image of bikers, promoting safety and Christian values.

In April 2005, Raymond Medina in Fort Worth, Texas, founded Knights on Bikes as a way to further the work of the Knights of Columbus by organizing members who are also motorcycle riders.

It is now an international group with chapters in more than 30 states and in Mexico, Canada and the Philippines.

They strive to address the spiritual and cultural needs of the Knights of Columbus and encourage faith, friendship and service.