For a printable PDF version of the Group Riding Guide click here
The following is are excerpts from the PDF
version
Group Riding Safety:
Suggestions for Group Rides
New England Riders
The
following guide is intended to cover the fundamentals of group
riding. It is by no means a definitive source of information on the
subject. For every group riding suggestion there are numerous
exceptions. Learning to be a better rider or a better group rider
is a continuous process that can take a lifetime. And as always,
there is no substitute for good judgment.
Notice:
NER is not an organization. Ride leaders are not trained experts at
planning or leading group rides but rather just fellow riders who
want to share their love of the road with other motorcyclists. As
always, each rider is responsible for themselves and the operation
of their motorcycle. "Ride your own ride" and "ride within your
capabilities" are more than sayings.
If you are ever uncomfortable on any ride for any reason,
talk to the ride leader or drop out of the ride. You are
responsible for your safety.
Enjoy the ride and
the friends you make along the way.
Suggestions for Group Rides
-
Why ride in
a group? Simply stated,
because it is fun to be in a group of motorcycles on the road.
Experiencing the ride with others and socializing during the rest,
fuel and food stops builds a camaraderie that is unique with
motorcyclists. It also provides safety advantages. A group is more
visible (it has “mass”) and is predictable to other vehicles vs. a
solo rider. In case of mechanical problems or an accident, there is
another biker there to help. But mostly, it’s a lot of fun! (Note:
if you are new to group riding tell the ride leader.)
-
New riders
usually like to get a few thousand miles of experience before taking
part in a group ride. Ask yourself if you are comfortable and in
control of the motorcycle? Can you negotiate curves at posted speed
limits, maintain your lane of travel and stop rapidly? When you’re
ready, come join in the fun of group riding.
-
On time and
ready – Plan to arrive at
the designated ride start location with a full tank of gas. Arrive
early enough to rest and use the facilities. Attend the pre-ride
meeting and be ready to ride at the designated start time.
-
Formation
a. Staggered
formation - it is advocated by multiple sources as the norm - not
because it is comfortable but because it offers the best group safety.
i. Spacing
– the standard timing is two seconds to the bike in front of you and
one second to the bike in the adjacent lane. It provides space and
time for avoidance maneuvers, crating a "mass" that is easily seen by
other vehicle drivers and keeps the group compact. It is important to
keep a tight formation in areas where there are other vehicles. When
in rural areas, a more relaxed spacing is fine. It gives riders more
time to look around and enjoy the scenery. However, remain close
enough to see and pass on hand signals. To determine if your spacing
is right, watch the bike in front of you pass an object and then count
“one thousand one, one thousand two.” You should reach the same
object when you say two.
...Continued in the PDF version
For a printable PDF version of the Group Riding Guide click here
