RIDING RULES
RIDER POSITIONS
Riders in a group ride fall into one of four positions. Their responsibilities
and duties are as follows.
Road Captain: The RC is in the ultimate position of authority for that
particular group ride! The RC is responsible for designating riders to serve as
TG, and, when required, RG's. The RC must assess, as best he/she can, the riding
skills of those in the group, and then make appropriate adjustments to ensure
that the ride is conducted in a safe manner for all involved.
The success of most rides depends a great deal on the expectations of the
attendant riders. The RC should provide as much useful information as possible
including who he/she has designated as the ride leaders (TG, RG), and give an
overall picture of how he/she expects to lead the ride (pace, frequency of
stops, anticipated food breaks). The RC should review the Road Rules (hand
signals, formations, etc.) and other pertinent items, such as setting an
understanding for conduct and timing at stops, for example: non-fuel related
stops will be brief unless otherwise indicated, probably no longer than 10
minutes (or whatever time is planned).
The RC must be aware of the length of the columns, and must gauge the passing of
merges, highway entrances and exits, etc., to allow for maximum safety and
keeping the group together. He/She must make sure that he/she leaves enough
time/space for the formation to get into the appropriate lanes before exits,
etc. All directions come from the RC. The RC makes all decisions regarding lane
changes, stopping for breaks and fuel, closing of gaps, turning off at exits,
any concerns of what lies ahead, and so on. No individual will assert himself
independently without direction from the RC to do so.
The RC is responsible for addressing, at the earliest reasonable opportunity,
any rider who is not following riding rules. The RC has the responsibility, and
authority, to remove from the group any rider who, after receiving an
appropriate warning, continues to violate riding rules during a group ride. The
RC will inform club leadership about any such action that is taken.
Tail Gunner: The TG is in the 2nd highest position of authority. The TG is the
last rider in the formation. No rider will fall behind the TG. The TG attempts
to ride in such a way as to make himself/herself visible to the RC as much as
possible. The TG rides with the high beams on (and having triple lights is
preferable). The TG has many responsibilities for shepherding the group, many of
which involve anticipating what the RC will do next, most of which are initiated
by events taking place in front of him/her; but not all.
The TG serves as the eyes of the Ride Leader. He will watch for merging lanes,
and will move into a merging lane (or stay in a merging lane just vacated by the
group) in order to "close the door" on other vehicles that may otherwise find
themselves trying to merge into the formation. The TG will normally change lanes
before the formation, to secure the lane so the formation can move into it.
The TG will also serve as a blocker at intersections, or when entering the
highway. The direction/lane to be blocked will normally be coordinated in
advance with the RC.
In the event a bike has to fall out of formation, the rider should move to the
right. All other riders are to stay with the group. The TG will stop with the
problem bike. The RC will slow down the speed (to allow time for the problem
bike and TG to catch up), or will lead the group to a safe stopping place.
Note: Lane integrity should be maintained at all times...do not cross-over from
one column to the other in order to fill a vacated spot. The next rider in that
column is to move forward to fill the vacated space (make sure that the diagonal
bike in front of you knows that you're moving forward before you do so). After
the vacated spot is filled, the next rider in that column repeats the previous
steps. This continues until all riders in the affected column have moved
forward. After all riders have moved forward, it may be necessary for a single
rider at the end of the group to cross-over.
Road Guards: On occasion there may be need for the RC to designate riders
as Road Guards (RG) to the assist the TG. RG's serve as blockers at
intersections, or when entering a highway and the group has to cross two lanes
of traffic. The direction/lane to be blocked will normally be coordinated in
advance with the RC. When RG's are know to be needed before the ride starts, the
RG's will normally be placed at the front of the group, so that they can peel
off and perform their assignments. After the blocking is completed, the RG's
will fall back into the group at the rear, but in front of the TG.
Formation members: If you’re not one of the ride leaders, then you’re a
formation rider. How you conduct yourself in the formation has significant
impact on all riders in the formation. Do your best not to stand out from the
other riders. Being noticed typically means you're doing something wrong,
usually it means you’re not holding your line, or your spacing is inconsistent.
This gives the riders around you cause for pause. They will have to pay more
attention to you than might otherwise be necessary, thus taking their focus and
attention off other aspects of the ride that they might otherwise engage
themselves, such as anticipating formation movements, reading their “tells”, or
keeping their own spacing. The primary role of a formation rider is to be
attentive, ride safely, observe all riding rules, be courteous of others in the
group, and have a good time.
FORMATIONS
Staggered: Our standard group riding formation is Staggered (or State Patrol).
In the staggered formation, the bikes form two columns, with the Road Captain
(RC) at the head of the left column. The second bike will head the right column
and will ride approximately one second behind the RC. The remaining riders will
position their bikes two seconds behind the bike directly in front of them,
which puts them one second behind the diagonal bike. The Tail Gunner (TG) may
ride in either lane but will normally ride in the center of the lane, thus
making it easier for the RC to see his/her bike.
When approaching traffic control (stop light, stop sign, flagman, etc.), the
group should tighten up into a side-by-side formation.This formation should only
be used in low speed situations. It reduces the amount of space the group
requires and is a courteous way to share the road with other vehicles.
Single Column: In this formation there is a single column, with each rider
maintaining a two second spacing behind the bike in front of him/her. The group
should follow the same position in the lane as the RC. This is because the RC
may have noticed a problem up ahead (accident, pedestrian, pothole, narrow
bridge or lane, etc.) and is attempting to avoid same. It is important that each
rider pay attention and follow the example set by the RC. Failure to do so could
result in the riders behind you getting the wrong message and they may suffer
harm due to your actions (or lack there-of).
RIDER CONDUCT
There is usually a significant effort required by a ride planner to get a large
group of riders together, in a common place, at a given time, so that you can
enjoy a group ride. Until you’ve tried to do this you won’t know how frustrating
it can be just to listen to everyone’s ideas about the ride. Riders who have
suggestions about a ride should voice same during ride planning, not on the day
of a ride.
The basic conduct for a formation rider is simple...be considerate. Don’t be the
last one ready when the group saddles up and prepares to take the roadway. The
basic rule here is to show up early to the meeting place and be fueled up and
ready to go before the appointed time. Try to be early so that any unforeseen
delays will not prevent you from being ready on time.
At any stop made by the group be sure to take care of your personal business
first, such as clothing changes, mechanical adjustments, getting gas, or using
the restroom before you engage in social conversation. You should be ready and
able to move your motorcycle into the formation with-in 2 minutes of the Road
Captains signal. That includes helmet on, gloves on, jacket on, bike running,
loaded up and ready to move out. Make that your goal. Smokers, you should
attempt to work out a strategy that doesn’t inconvenience your fellow riders.
Tells are anything in the environment around you that allow you to gather
intelligence relevant to the safety of your journey; road signs, sounds, visual
clues (dust/sand storms), or anything else that can warn you of imminent change.
Read your “tells” and be vigilant in searching for them. In a passing situation
on a two-lane highway you may notice a vehicle parked on the shoulder up ahead
on the far side of the road. Is there an operator behind the wheel? Is there a
possibility that the vehicle may enter the roadway? What if it does and executes
a U-turn?
If you’re in a staggered formation and notice that there are a number of
vehicles traveling closely behind the TG and also notice a road sign indicating
that you’re approaching a passing lane, you might anticipate that the RC will
issue the hand signal to tighten up the formation. In doing so, the RC is
preparing to move the formation into the slower (right) traffic lane in the
passing section and hoping to allow as many vehicles to pass as possible before
the passing lane ends. The TG should be cognizant of this fact and move over to
secure the left lane, called “closing the door” so that the formation can remain
contiguous.
Help out from the back by reading your “tells” and anticipating the RC
intentions. The longer it takes for the back end of the formation to tighten-up
on this maneuver, the less likely it is to be successful at its completion.
LANE CHANGES
1. The Road Captain (RC) will put on his/her turn signal as an indication that
he/she is about to make a lane change.
2. Each rider sees the turn signal and also turns his/her signal on so the
riders following get the signal. This continues all the way back to the Tail
Gunner (TG).
3. The TG will then move to the designated lane and secure same.
4. The RC will then check the designated lane and then initiate the lane change
by moving into the designated lane.
5. Only after the RC has initiated the lane change will the second rider in the
group (the one located to the right of, and slightly behind, the RC) initiate
his/her lane change, after checking the designated lane. After the second rider
has initiated his/her lane change the third rider initiates his/her lane change,
after checking the designated lane. This continues until all riders have changed
lanes. The important part is that no rider (except the TG and RC) is to initiate
a lane change UNTIL the rider in front of them initiates a lane change.
Note: The RC will normally make a lane change only after verifying that the TG
has secured the lane and that no vehicles are in the way in the designated lane.
However, there will be occasions when the RC may not be able to determine this.
And on occasion we may have vehicles enter the designated lane from a side road
or parking lot. It is for these reasons, and others, that every rider must
visually check the designated lane themselves BEFORE making any lane changes.
Note: Electric turn signals will normally be supplemented with hand signals.
HAND SIGNALS
The following hand signals will be used during group rides. The only rider in
the group that is authorized to initiate these signals is the Road Captain (RC).
As each rider sees a hand signal, he/she shall repeat this signal. This process
will be repeated until all riders have passed along the signal.
Left turn: Left arm extended straight out from the shoulder.
Right turn: Left arm extended straight out from the shoulder but with elbow bent
straight upwards.
Single column: Left arm straight up...first (index) finger also extended
straight up...all others fingers closed.
Staggered (double column): Left arm straight up...thumb and pinky finger out,
other fingers closed, rotating wrist back and forth.
Tighten-up: Left arm straight up...all fingers spread out, then fingers are
closed into a fist...this is repeated several times.
Stop: Either arm is extended out and dropped to the side of the bike...all
fingers are spread out.
Slow: Either arm is extended out and dropped to the side of the bike...the palm
is parallel to the road and the hand is pushed up and down several times.
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Road hazard: There is only one hand signal that can be initiated by anyone in
the group other than the RC and that signal is for a road hazard. Anyone seeing
a hazardous condition on the road surface (road kill, oil, debris, significant
pothole, etc.) should point to it (using either his/her arm or leg).
***************************************************************************************
Important notes:
1. The use of hand signals by everyone in the group is important to the safe
riding of the group. Therefore, it is important that each rider be attentive,
repeat all hand signals that are initiated by the RC, and implement the commands
associated with these signals.
2. Inexperienced riders may feel unsafe removing their hands from the controls
of their bike. Any such riders will not be required to repeat the hand signals.
But any such riders will be expected to identify themselves, prior to the ride,
to the RC. After reasonable experience has been realized, the use of hand
signals will be expected when group riding with the club.
3. Any experienced rider who does not follow riding rules during a ride will be
asked by the RC to do so during the first reasonable opportunity during the
ride. Failure of a rider to comply after being warned will result in the rider
being asked to leave the group ride. In addition, the RC involved will inform
club leadership about the incident, where-in a review will be conducted to
assess the appropriateness of banning the subject rider from future group rides.
MERGING
The riding formation may become segmented due to a number of circumstances, such
as a merging vehicle or a traffic control (stoplight). Other times, segmented
formations may be planned, for example, to allow fast paced and slow paced
groups to proceed along a twisty section of road providing desirable riding
conditions for a wider range of skill levels.
Traffic may attempt to merge with the formation whether invited to or not. And
it is key to consider this: that you have the ability to invite vehicles to
merge into the formation. By not keeping your spacing (lagging behind) you
create an opportunity for vehicles to penetrate the formation uninvited – this
creates a multitude of problems and safety issues, try not to let this happen.
In other situations, such as vehicles entering the interstate via the
acceleration lane, it may be necessary to allow that vehicle to safely merge
into the formation. Doing so requires coordination between all riders in that
area of the formation. When done properly, only one space will be created for
each vehicle by the formation and the appropriate rider will indicate to the
operator of that vehicle that he/she should place the vehicle in that space. If
a space has been created for a vehicle then all other riders should maintain
proper spacing so that the operator of the vehicle does not become confused and
attempt to merge with the formation at the wrong place.
The bottom line however, is that “might is right”. You can’t physically stop an
automobile from doing whatever the operator decides to do. If a vehicle makes a
move in your direction, get out of the way. As a rider in the formation, you
should be prepared to make room for another rider caught in this situation. On
highways, check the on-ramps for possible traffic and prepare early to take
appropriate action.
PASSING
While proceeding in the single column formation, the RC may choose to pass
another vehicle on the highway. There are 3 primary instances in which this
might occur.
The first takes place on a two-lane highway. The RC will lead out around the
vehicle and roll on the power. While overtaking the vehicle the RC will extend
his/her left arm out to the left and give a “thumbs up” to indicate that the
next rider can safely pass the vehicle. Each rider, in turn, follows this
pattern. When the passing situation becomes unsafe for any reason, the sign will
be changed to a “thumbs-down” position. At this time no other riders should
attempt to pass and room should be made by those in front, and behind the
vehicle being passed to allow those riders who are in the passing lane to safely
return to the lane.
The second situation also takes place on a two-lane highway. This time, however,
there is a passing lane and the RC chooses to move the formation into the left
lane and overtake vehicle(s) in the right lane. If you’re watching your “tells”,
you may notice the road sign indicating a passing lane approaching. At this time
the RC may use a hand signal to indicate that the formation should tighten up
(decrease the spacing interval). The RC would do so by extending his/her left
hand straight up with all fingers extended, then closing his/her hand into a
fist and repeating. With all this information you should be anticipating a
passing maneuver. Again, when the RC leads out around the vehicle, keep the pace
and be expeditious. It’s best if you don’t wave “thank you” to the vehicles on
your right as you pass, stay focused on the task at hand. The TG will take care
of the public relations.
There are a few critical points of concern with respect to the two passing
maneuvers mentioned above. When passing, do so as expeditiously as possible. The
RC will make a pass and continue to ride at an increased pace until all riders
have completed their pass. It is critical that you stay right on the pace of the
RC so that ample room is created between the riders that have passed the vehicle
and the vehicle itself. This will allow space for those still passing to return
safely and comfortably to the lane. Remember, if you slow down they will be
approaching you at a higher rate of speed and then be required to complete their
pass by applying the brake – and that presents safety issues.
On a two lane highway situation, the methods for passing a vehicle while
traveling in a staggered formation are the same as those given for the single
column formation except that the riders must begin to merge the columns as they
move into position behind the vehicle being passed. It’s better not to merge too
early because that lengthens the formation and increases the possibility that
not all of the riders will have an opportunity to complete the pass. Also, upon
completing the pass, riders should continue on in a single column formation on
the far right side of the lane, thus, allowing passing riders the best
opportunity to recover from unforeseen circumstances should they occur. Once the
TG has completed his/her pass, the RC will give the hand signal to reform the
formation according to his/her desire.
When passing traffic on a multi-lane highway by virtue of the traffic lane
occupied by the formation moving at a higher rate of speed than the adjacent
lane(s), there are considerations to keep in mind. For example, if you’re
passing a semi-truck, the RC will likely hold back at a safe distance until
enough space is created beyond the semi that the entire formation will be able
to pass by. The RC will pass by the semi at an increased rate of speed so as to
spend the minimal possible time along its side. You should do the same; again,
keep your spacing based on the example set by the leaders. Trucks change lanes,
retreads blow off, rocks are propelled from underneath; there are many good
reasons not to tarry alongside of semi-trucks.
PARKING
Why does parking seem to be so difficult? It’s typically because ride discipline
breaks down too early. Stay in formation as long as possible and allow the RC to
establish a parking pattern if possible. The more riders that veer off in their
own direction the more opportunity there is for collisions and confusion. Keep
the discipline.
Once you’re satisfied with where you’re motorcycle is parked, put the kickstand
down immediately, and get the front wheel turned over in the appropriate fashion
– usually hard over to the left. Inspect the pavement, or other surface, to be
sure that it is suitable for sustaining the weight of your bike for the duration
of your intended stay. If it’s really hot out and you’re parked on asphalt, the
kickstand may eventually penetrate the surface and you’re scoot will be laying
on its side after awhile.
Getting the kickstand down immediately will prevent you from forgetting to
deploy it if you decide to remain in your saddle for a while and remove your
helmet and gloves. It happens more often than you’d expect; that someone will
simply get up off their bike with the kickstand up and walk away.
Let’s be courteous as group in parking lots. Four bikes can easily fit in a
single parking stall, and usually four will fit, unless they’re “baggers”. It
would be rude for a group of 10 bikes to use up 10 stalls.
There are many potential risks in a parking lot such as vehicles pulling in and
out, slippery surfaces (wet concrete, oil on the asphalt), children running
unattended, pot-holes, missing manhole covers; the list goes on.
You need to identify the risks prior to engaging in activities that involve
moving your motorcycle. Be aware of what your fellow riders are doing as well.
ENTERING & EXITING ROADWAYS
The point of extremis is the condition where two vehicles are in a situation
where both are required to take evasive action in order to prevent a collision.
Don’t get into this situation.
When entering a roadway you need to consider many things: the speed and density
of the traffic on the roadway, the skill level of the riders in your formation,
the type and condition of the riding surface, both on the roadway, and on the
entry surface.
You should have been surveying the traffic long before you actually arrive at
the entry point of the roadway. If you need to pause to take a long look for the
first time as you approach this point, you’re way behind the eight ball.
Continually glance down the road and identify the hazards as you approach the
entry point. Once you’ve committed yourself to the roadway, carefully get your
motorcycle pointed straight down the road as quickly as safely possible, and
then accelerate expeditiously and assume proper spacing. The longer it takes to
get all riders out on the roadway, the longer we are collectively exposed to
this greater risk area.
Pay attention to the riders near you. Those on the inside of the turn may not
have the proper low-speed turning skills required to successfully negotiate a
tight right-hand entry turn and may drift wide to the left.
When exiting a roadway pay close attention to the transition area between the
roadway and the shoulder or off-roadway surface. If it’s dirt or loose gravel
you need to be sure and get down to a safe speed before you transition onto that
surface so you don’t wash out, plan to do so in a way that doesn’t require
aggressive braking or maneuvering.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, you need to exercise good judgment based on the
abundance of information available to you when you roll into a position to enter
or exit a roadway. If you can’t safely perform the maneuver at that moment, then
don’t! You must be aware of the situation at hand, understand the skills
required to perform the maneuver, and know that you can successfully complete
the maneuver before you commit yourself to it.
NEW RIDERS OR RIDERS NEW TO GROUP RIDING
New riders, or those that are inexperienced with group riding, should inform
their RC of this prior to a ride. The RC should then suggest that these riders
ride up front of the group (but not further up than 3rd position).
If the RC does not know the skill levels of all those in his/her group, he
should make it known during the pre-ride briefing that new riders, or
inexperienced group riders, should ride up front.
Riding up front serves several purposes, but the primary one is that it provides
the RC with the best visibility of how these riders are doing, so that he/she
can make appropriate adjustments in the ride. It also permits the other riders
to adjust their ride according to how the front of the group is doing.
In the event a rider asks to ride in the rear of the group, the RC will decide
what is in the best interest of the group and ask that rider to ride there; if
any rider is observed to be having "difficulties" during a ride, the RC should
address same at the earliest, and safest, opportunity.
B) Club Rules
The MC is composed of five (5) members...the two co-leaders,
plus three elected members-at-large. If we agree that at least 4 of these
members (somebody can't make it due to being out of town, conflicting schedule,
etc.) must be present to vote on an application, then how many MC members does
it take to approve (or disapprove) an application?
Posted are two options. First, an application can be approved as long as not
more than one MC member disapproves the application. This would mean that an
application could be approved with only a 75% approval vote (3 out of 4 members
vote; or, 80% if all 5 members vote). The second option would be that each
application must be unanimously (100%) approved by those voting.
• 4 of 5 must vote; only 1 can diagree
• 4 of 5 must vote; vote must be unanimous