Group Riding Guide

Motorcycling is primarily a solo activity, but for some, group riding, whether with friends on a Sunday morning ride or at some organized motorcycle rally/event, is the epitome of the motorcycling experience. Here are some tips to help ensure a fun and safe group ride:
Arrive Prepared Arrive on time with a full gas tank at the designated gather point.
Preride Meeting Discuss the route, any rest and/or fuel stops and hand signals.  Assign lead and sweep (tail) rider. Both should be experienced riders who are well-versed in group riding procedures. Assess the riding skills of personnel and riding style.
Manageable Size Five to seven riders is best. If necessary, break the group into smaller sub-groups, each with a lead and sweep rider.
Ride Prepared At least one rider should pack a cell phone, first-aid kit and full tool kit.
Formation The staggered riding formation (image below) allows a proper space cushion between motorcycles so that each rider has enough time and space to maneuver and react to hazards. The leader rides in the left third of the lane, while the next rider stays at least one second behind and to the right third of the lane; the rest of the group repeats this pattern. A single-file formation is sometimes necessary for twisties, under conditions of poor visibility or road surface, entering/leaving highways, or other situations where an increased space cushion or maneuvering room is needed.
Side-By-Side Formations Should be avoided unless waiting at a traffic signal as it reduces the space cushion. If you suddenly needed to swerve to avoid a hazard you would not have room.
Check Mirrors If you see a rider falling behind, slow down so they may catch up. If all the riders in the group use this technique, the group should be able to maintain a fairly steady speed without pressure to ride fast to catch up.
If Separated Don’t panic. Your group should have a pre-planned procedure in place to regroup. Don’t break the law or ride beyond your skills to catch up.
Hand Signals For a complete listing of hand signals click here.

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