group ride rules
These rules have been compiled from multiple sources. They have been tried, tested and found to be as safe.
The Lead Road Captain is in charge over all riders including Club Presidents.
Ride by these rules or don’t ride with the group. “Safety is our #1 priority.”
Bikes will line up and maintain staggered riding position with riders staying in the column they initiate from.
No riding in the center of the lane. Only exception is the Tail Gunner.
Novice riders shall consult with the Lead Road Captain for proper placement in the group until they feel comfortable with riding in a group.
Normally this will be towards the front of the group.
Novice riders are expected to ride at their riding ability and never feel pressured to do otherwise.
If they cannot keep up with the group, then a RC should be assigned to escort them individually.
Riders who choose to follow in a group must do just that; follow. If a mistake is made (ie. Missed turn, missed exit, or direction they feel is unnecessary) they are expected to follow in a group until it can be safely corrected.
Each rider has a responsibility to be aware of all bikes around them.
Riding distances between bikes should be approximately 1 to 2 seconds, per 10 mph, depending upon riding conditions.
When turning at an intersection the LEFT bike always goes first.
Never assume the bike in front of you will go through a yellow/red light at an intersection. If the group is separated due to a traffic light, the front group should pull off the road at a next safest spot and wait for the back group to catch up.
The group should be aware of who the Road Captains (Lead, Blockers, Tail Gunner) are.
Bikes are to follow the Lead Road Captain and not the other Road Captains.
Each signal by the Road Captain is to be passed back by every rider so everyone is informed.
Maintain a steady pace with as few drastic speed changes or sudden moves as possible. Quick acceleration after turning causes unnecessary ‘rubber-banding/accordion’ effect behind you.
When a single file formation signal is given, the bike on the LEFT will go in front of the bike on the right.
The group will continue through an intersection only if Road Captains have deemed the intersection safe or secured the intersection. If Road Captains are not in place, make sure the riders behind you know you intend to stop.
Blockers will pull out and secure the lane before a group lane change occurs. When a lane change is signaled, do not move until the rider in front of you does. Follow the leader, not the Blocker.
If a breakdown occurs, only a Blocker will assist the troubled bike. The rest of the group will continue to their destination.
Road Captains will pass the group mostly on the left. Road conditions and traffic may make passing on the right necessary.
Upon arrival at the destination, when turning left, a Road Captain will hold oncoming traffic for safe entry of the group.
Everyone pulls into the destination at the end of the ride maintaining formation while parking. If you do not wish to stay, leave only after all bikes are parked.
All bikes will be out of the mainstream of traffic while parking at the destination. Maintain formation while parking and also upon departure.
Unsafe riding in the group will not be tolerated, i.e. drunk driving, drugs, and unsafe riding exhibition. It is your obligation to report the non-compliance of any group riding rule to a Road Captain ASAP.
Remember, we do not own the road. If a situation occurs when you must let another vehicle enter the group, LET THEM IN! The Road Captains will be responsible for separating the car away from the pack in a safe manner.
Ride and have fun!
