This we don't do.

2 items ADDED in March 2005 1- If a rider needs a REST STOP, that rider will tap the top of their helmet with the left hand.  This signal will be relayed forward to the Ride Captain until he acknowledges with the same signal. 2-Image of hand signals added at the bottom of this page. Please help spread the word of these 2 additions so everyone is informed. Roy

Introduction These guidelines are written so that they are geared to both the rider and ride leader, that way when you want to try leading a ride you are already prepared.

Riding with a group of friends appeals to many riders and is an activity that can enhance your motorcycling experience. However, riding with a group that has not developed any group guidelines can be a most unpleasant experience. Riding a motorcycle by nature is a solitary activity, but riding with others will bring some benefits, such as: someone to be aware of you if you have trouble, someone to help with routes, and someone to socialize with at stops.

General Group Riding Guidelines Arrive at the starting point early and with a full tank of gas. Communicate your gas/mileage range with the ride coordinator so stops can be planned ahead of time. If you decide to leave the group, inform the ride coordinator at one of the stops.  Gas stops are planned every 100 miles for those with small tanks. The ride coordinator, or ride leader, should be experienced and have good vision, perceptual, and decision-making ability. Each rider is responsible for the safe operating condition of his/her motorcycle. Carry appropriate riding gear for the conditions you expect to encounter and carry a first aid (trauma) kit and know how to use it. Ride within your limits, as a typical ride will be in remote areas without emergency services. Don't allow peer pressure, pride, or stupidity push you beyond your comfort level.

Planning Considerations for a Group Ride (Group Coordinator) Get to know your group by having a pre-ride meeting and meeting individually with newer riders beforehand. Try to find out about other's riding experience and expectations. Types of motorcycles can sometime give the leader a clue about riding styles, but not always. High performance sport bikes tend to have riders who are looking for corners to carve, while cruisers and touring bikes riders may be out to enjoy the day. Dirt bike or dual-sport riders may enjoy everything and not mind riding on un-paved or rustic roads. You may end up with a mix of riders and machines with a variety of experience and expectations, or if someone brings a co-worker or roommate along. If you emphasize riding your own ride, and provide information about the route and planned stops, the groups will migrate to a variety of sub-groups based on friendship, speed, or mood. Stick with your planned route.

Slower Riders Inexperienced riders, riders that feel more comfortable going slower and riders that like to sight see are asked to ride towards the rear, in front of the sweeper.  This way everyone will enjoy group riding more.

Staggering Maintain the following formation for normal group riding. On narrow roads, curvy or mountainous roads, areas where visibility is limited, construction areas, loose surfaces, and when there is an obstacle in the roadway, ride single file. It is inadvisable to ride side-by-side. When coming to a stop, consider lining up side-by-side to take up less room in traffic, and to proceed more efficiently: two at a time. Adjust your lane position to deal with hazards and invasions of your space cushion. Use at least 2 second spacing when riding single file, such as in twisty sections. Above all, use common sense. Remember that two seconds is a MINIMUM space cushion, and more room is needed at high speeds, in heavy traffic, in the rain, or at night.

Passing Passing cars or other riders in the group is fine, as long as passing is done on the left, and adequate room is given the vehicle being passed.  Tap your horn before you pass and check your  blind spot to make sure no one is passing you. Each rider passing is responsible for making sure that they have enough room to pass. Although lead riders may pass aggressively to make sure they leave enough room for other riders to also pass, it is the responsibility of following riders to make sure they have enough room before pulling out to pass. If you are being crowded by a rider following you, move to the right and slow down, wave them forward, and let the following rider pass. PASSING ON THE RIGHT, WEAVING THROUGH GROUPS OF RIDERS, TAILGATING OR OTHERWISE RIDING IRRESPONSIBLY IS NOT SAFE!

Group Behavior No drinking alcohol and riding. If the ride includes an overnight stay, responsible drinking is permitted after the motorcycles are parked for the night.  If you are taking medications make sure someone on the STAFF is aware of any special needs you may have.

Stop Signs In order to avoid congestion at stop signs it is a good idea to ride side by side when approaching the intersection.  2 bikes should leave the stop sign at the same time  when it is save to do so.

Low Beams or High Beams We suggest that only the leader and sweeper of each group ride with their high  beams and everyone else on lows.  This way the leader can spot the rear of the group much easier when looking in his mirrors.  Don't forget to switch back to your highs when departing the group.

Slow Down, It's Okay Most importantly- if a situation doesn't feel right or safe,  SLOW DOWN and wave  the riders behind you to pass you or motion for him to slow down too.  Our main  goal is to have a SAFE RIDE.

Hand Signals