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GROUP MOTORCYCLE RIDING GUIDELINES for Riding Twisty Roads
PURPOSE: To insure a SAFE and ENJOYABLE ride for all participants.
RIDE ORGANIZATION:
• The group should be organized with the faster riders toward the front of the line, and progressively slower riders toward the back.
• All riders should take the curves at their own pace. If everybody is in their proper place in line, then when riding the curves, the slower riders will lag back, and the group will spread out.
• Then the Leader will slow down in the straightaways and the group can accordion back together again.
PACE:
• Your pace should leave a margin of safety, so that you can maneuver around a bad spot in the road if needed, and stay in complete control, and in your lane.
• Ideally, you should approach each turn by closing the throttle early enough, so that the bike is back down to a speed that is comfortable for entering the curve and brakes are not needed.
• Leave ample space between yourself and the rider ahead.
SPEED AND YOUR PLACE IN LINE:
• “Faster Riders” are those who feel comfortable and confident when taking the curves at higher speeds.
o It is not necessarily the rider with the most powerful motorcycle.
o We are talking speed within the curve, not straightaway speed capability.
o If a rider feels the least bit uncomfortable when entering or negotiating a curve, then he is riding too fast, and should move back in line some.
o If a rider is truly bored with the speed, and knows without a doubt that he can take the turns a little faster, based on lots of past experience, then he can move up in line. Just do not move up too far forward.
o Faster riders typically have much more experience riding curvy roads or may have track time.
o Riders who are new to the particular group – should start out at the back, regardless of what they think their skill level is. Then they can move forward as they get the feel of the speed that day.
• Group riders need to leave their egos at home, and honestly evaluate their skill levels and capabilities. Otherwise, they may ride beyond their comfort zone and run the risk of a crash themselves, or cause others to crash.
• Do not use track riding styles, such as keeping the throttle open right up to the turn, then heavily applying the brakes. This can upset the pace within the line and place other riders at risk.
• Use extreme caution when passing other bikes. Use the turn signals; check behind you to be sure you are not being passed, and also be sure there is sufficient space ahead. Be cautious when merging back into your new place in line.
Bill Baker
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