Riding in a group can be intimidating at first. RM HOG #0421 would like to make the experience as pleasant for both new and experienced group riders as possible. To that end please familiarize yourself with the following principles and the additional information available via the links to the right.

General Principals:

Gap in Formation – If a void is created by a rider leaving the formation, we will wait until a stop to fill that gap — otherwise, just continue to ride leaving the hole unfilled.

Lane Changes – The lane change starts with a hand signal from the Road Captain to the Tail Gunner. The Tail Gunner will, when it is safe to do so, move into the requested lane and signal to the Road Captain that the lane is clear. The Road Captain will then move into the new lane and each rider will then follow the rider in front into the new lane.

Splitting from the Group – Don’t suddenly split off from the group for personal reasons (i.e. to take a picture or make a casual phone call) unless you’ve told the Road Captain up front that you plan to do that, or unless it’s for a mechanical or medical problem. If you do choose to leave unexpectedly, wave the others on, making it clear that you aren’t in need of assistance.

Ride Termination – The ride officially ends at the destination. If you would like to ride back with other riders, try to make these arrangements before leaving for the ride.

Lights – When riding with the group, all riders except the Tail Gunner should turn OFF their light trees. This will allow the Road Captain to more easily see the last bike in the group.

Hand Signals – Pass back all hand signals initiated by the Road Captain, and be prepared to initiate a “single file” signal yourself if your travel lane becomes unsafe or uncomfortable (bad road surface, crumbling shoulder, narrow lanes, etc). Traditionally this has been a judgment call left to Road Captains, but in our chapter each individual member has the authority to make that call.