Hand Signals

Left Turn Right Turn Hazard - Left Hazard - Right
Speed Up Start Engines Stop Slow Down
Single File Staggered Formation Tighten Up

Formation Riding

The staggered riding formation (see diagram below) allows a proper space cushion between motorcycles so that each rider has enough time and space to maneuver and to react to hazards. The leader rides in the left third of the lane, while the next rider stays at least one second behind in the right third of the lane; the rest of the group follows the same pattern. A single-file formation is preferred on a curvy road, under conditions of poor visibility or poor road surfaces, entering/leaving highways, or other situations where an increased space cushion or maneuvering room is needed.

Formation Riding

This 10-minute edit of the video in the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's Guide to Group Riding Kit explains riding formations, pre-ride meetings, hand signals, and more.



Can you see me now? Watch this video to learn about how to be more visible when riding.



Group Parking

Orderly parking reduces the time needed to get off the road

The ride leader leads the group off the road. The ride leader should ride all the way around the lot to allow all riders to get off the road. If fueling, the ride leader will pull all the way around, then pull up to the fuel station

Follow the ride leader to the selected parking area and establish your parking position

Each bike should pull ahead of the intended parking place and then back up into the spot

After you pull into your parking position and the group has settled down, you can move to the fueling area

If you find yourself at the end of the group and can't get off the road while waiting for the other to park, GO AROUND.

 Group Parking


Safety Tips

Be Visible

Intersections
Be Visible Intersections

Wear high-vis clothing to make yourself obvious! Also, flash your brake light two or three times before slowing down or stopping and use hands signals as well.

Intersections are a common crash site for motorcyclists. Make sure to remain free from other car’s blind spots by assuming you are invisible and that motorists have not seen you. Leave yourself an out.

Passing

Following Distance
Passing Following Distance

Drivers must remember to give a motorcyclist adequate space when passing. Stay in the designated lanes and do not change lanes quickly. Riders should remember to signal in advance and stay out of drivers’ blind spots.

All motorists should allow a minimum 2 second “space cushion” when following another vehicle. In poor weather conditions, allow a four or five-second following distance.

For more information see the Share the Road Brochure.





Check Your Bike

Before each ride, conduct a safety inspection of your motorcycle. Proper maintenance is essential even for short trips. Pre-Ride Inspection check list.


Motorcycle Rider Program

Motorcycle Rider Program