SOME COMMON SENSE GROUP RIDING RULES

When riding in a group we must do it in a way that does not endanger anyone or interfere with the flow of traffic. The following are some general common sense rules followed by motorcyclist touring in a group. These rules are not hard and fast and each rider must understand that he is responsible for himself and his passenger. He is responsible for the safe operation of his bike so he does not to endanger himself, his passenger, or other vehicles on the road. All your driving maneuvers should be thought out, planned in advance, and communicated to the other members in the group. Never take a spontaneous action unless necessary to avoid injury.

Every Group Ride will have a Ride Leader and a Tail Gunner. The Ride Leader plans the ride and is always at the head of the group giving instructions and telling the riders his ride plans. The Tail Gunner is the last rider in the group and he tells the Ride Leader the status of the group and stops to assist any member who must pull over. (Optional) Both the Ride Leader and Tail Gunner will have CB radios to communicate with each other and the rest of the Group. Always check with the Ride Leader to find out which channel will be used for that ride.

1.   When traveling on a 2 lane highway with a group, motorcycles should split into groups of 5 to enable cars to pass safely and give them a spot to pull in if necessary.

2.   When crossing controlled intersections, motorcycles should pair up to reduce the length of time crossing and keep the motorcycles together. This should avoid anyone trying to play "catch up." Each rider is responsible to insure he can make a safe crossing before entering the intersection.

3.   (Optional) The Ride Leader should have a CB radio. This will enable the Leader to inform others of road conditions and keep in touch with the motorcycles in the middle and at the end of the group in case of problems. If the Rider Leader does not have a CB then the second bike must have one. Use of the CB should be kept at a minimum because it is the primary means of communication between the Ride Leader and the Tail Gunner.

4.   (Optional, Those without a CB should be in the middle with a CB behind them  so they can pull off in case of trouble.) This applies to inexperienced riders as well. If you do not have a CB you should learn, and use, the commonly recognized hand signals; i.e. speed up; follow me; single file; double file; hazard in road; pull off; headlight; fuel; food, coffee stop; comfort stop; you lead; come alongside.

5.   Each rider should observe, and constantly be aware of, the motorcycle in front and behind to be on the alert for any trouble.

6.   The leader should inform the Group of the destination of the ride. This will avoid anyone stuck behind not knowing where to go.

7.   Never pair up during a ride, except at controlled intersections, and always ride in a staggered position using the 2 second rule. This keeps the group close and keeps each rider a safe distance from others ahead, behind and to the sides. Every sixth bike will leave more room for other motor vehicles to pull in.

8.   There will be no use of alcohol until after all motorcycle riding for the day has been concluded.

9.   Each rider and passenger should wear an approved helmet during Chapter and Club rides.

10. When passing vehicles, the Ride Leader should maintain passing speed until he has opened up room for the rest of the riders.

11. Passing other members of the group is prohibited. You may not pass another bike unless it has pulled over to the shoulder and indicated an intention to stop. If you do not like the position you are riding in then change it only at a rest stop.

12. Always maintain a safe speed and keep a safe distance between motorcycles. If you feel uncomfortable in keeping the pace of the group (rain, wind, winding roads, steep grades, etc) mention it to the Ride Leader, call for a stop or let the group know you are going to pull over to the side and let the group pass by and then drop to the rear behind the Tail Gunner.

13. If, and when, it becomes necessary for one motorcycle to stop, all other motorcycles are to proceed on until they reach the first available safe place to pull over. The Tail Gunner has the responsibility to pull over and assist the stopped motorcycle.

14. If you pass another motor vehicle you may not do it in the same lane that vehicle is driving in, even if it has pulled over to the shoulder with the intent of letting you pass. You must be able to pass in the oncoming traffic lane.

15. If riding in a group and you need to stop for a rest or stretch your legs; or if you need coffee, food, or fuel; or if you need to make a comfort stop, let the group know your needs. Group riding is not an endurance test. (you should use the appreciate hand signals)

16. If you have a medical condition which may affect your riding, require more frequent stops, or require you to take medicines (diabetes, seizure disorders, tired, etc.) please advise the Ride Leader.

There is safety in numbers and group riding can be fun if we all obey the rules of the road. Common courtesy on sharing the road is important. Remember, you are responsible for the safe operation of your bike. No one else can accept that responsibility. These rules are not, and cannot be, intended to be all-encompassing and cover all aspects of group riding. These rules are intended to be suggestive in nature and have generally been found to work well. There is always room for common sense to fit any particular situation.

Copied in part (most) from North Metro Chapter of the Minnesota Wings.

Suggested hand signals

Last Update: Sunday, November 12, 2006 08:39 AM

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