also: かみなりぞく
noun
noisy motorcycle gang; reckless biker group; thunder tribe
Dated term for groups of young motorcyclists who rode noisily through streets, often removing mufflers. The name evokes the thunderous sound of their bikes. Compare 暴走族, which is the more common modern term.
See also: 暴走族
In the 1970s, young people called 'thunder tribes' roared through the night with loud engine noises.
カミナリ族は暴走族の前身とも言われる。
The 'thunder tribe' is said to be a precursor to the bōsōzoku (motorcycle gangs).