3 Top Tips for Motorcycle Riding in a Group
Photo from Flickr by pablosbikes
There’s nothing better than pulling on your helmet and heading out with a group of friends and exploring the country on your bikes; whether it’s an organised ride out or just a few friends getting together for some fun, there are some hints and tips that allow you to stay together and ride safely.
Be prepared
Arrive at the meeting point with a full tank of fuel and an empty bladder! This will ensure that you all can start your trip and get as far as possible before anyone needs to stop. Before you set off make sure that everyone knows the end location of the trip and go through the route. Being prepared doesn’t just apply to the route, it applies to your overtaking manoeuvres too, even if a few of your mates have gone, assess the risk for yourself and make sure it’s safe.
Stay together
Easier said than done…so, what do you do if you get separated? Obviously, you can’t simply pick up the phone and see where everyone is! One technique is to have a designated meeting point, which is located halfway to the destination and agree to meet up there and not set off until everyone has arrived. Alternatively, to ensure no-one is left behind you can employ the drop off technique.
This is where the rider in second place (behind the leader) marks every corner when the group is meant to turn, once the final rider (designated back marker) is through then they re-join the ride out. Everyone who is riding in second place takes a turn at this but the back marker and leader remain the same to avoid confusion…simple!
Remember other road users
It can depend on how large the group is as to whether you cause a nuisance to other road users or not but just bear in mind that they want to use the roads to get somewhere too. If it’s a large charity ride, speak with your local authorities to ensure they’re aware of your plans; they’ll often put traffic measures in place to minimise disruption.
However, if it’s just a large group on a trip, just be polite and don’t give into the temptation to ride like you’re part of a gang. Each of you, ride your own ride and by using the techniques above you will stay together safely. For more biking tips, including winter biking advice from Superbike World Champion James Toseland visit Bennetts Bike Insurance.
