The Kaminari-zoku, also known as the "Thunder Tribe," was a motorcycle subculture that emerged in Japan during the 1950s and 1960s. They were known for their distinctive style, rebellious attitude, and their preference for American motorcycles.
One of the motorcycles commonly associated with the Kaminari-zoku is the Harley-Davidson. The Kaminari-zoku were inspired by American biker culture and sought to emulate the image of American motorcycle gangs, such as the Hells Angels. They often rode modified Harley-Davidson motorcycles, which were imported into Japan and highly coveted for their power, style, and association with freedom and rebellion.
While it is challenging to pinpoint a specific model as the "first" motorcycle used by the Kaminari-zoku, early Harley-Davidson models like the Harley-Davidson Panhead, Knucklehead, and Flathead were among the motorcycles favored by the Kaminari-zoku during that era. These motorcycles provided a powerful and iconic base for customization and were popular choices among motorcycle enthusiasts seeking to create a unique and rebellious identity.