The Way We Ride

The Rules of Safe Group Riding

On this page we learn about “Who’s Who” in a riding group as well as spell out the rules that are observed by Winnipeg Chapter 9024 H.O.G.® while riding in a group. These rules

have been adopted in a effort to ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience for all riders, no matter what level of experience they have. Please review these rules/responsibilities and have

a safe ride.

Thanks from Your Chapter Road Captains!

Here's a video on group riding ; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kNOE9vnLyG0

And a link with useful information ; http://motorcycle-central.com/motorcycle-group-riding-tips/

Road Captain

• Chooses the route and advises the Sweep and the group

• Determines where to place “new” riders in the group

• Leads the ride

• Signals lane changes (which are passed on to the Sweep)

• Makes sure there are no other vehicles in the lane the group is changing to

• Determines where gas stops will be made based on the bike with the smallest tank

• Keeps an eye on how everyone is riding and tactfully talks to anyone whose riding may be a hazard to the group

Sweep

• Helps any bike that has to stop during the ride

• Secures the lane once the Road Captain signals a lane change

• Takes over the lead or arranges for a second Road Captain should the group get split up

• Keeps an eye on how everyone is riding and tactfully talks to anyone whose riding may be a hazard to the group

The Group

• Knows the “Ride Rules” of the Chapter

• Looks out for their own safety and the safety of those around them

• Passes on all hand signals.

• Follows the bike in front of them

• Does not change lanes or tire tracks until after the bike in front of them does

• Speaks to the Road Captain or Sweep if they have any concerns with the way the Chapter is riding

• Maintains the group speed so that we have no gaps that invite cars to jump into the

middle of the group

1. Inexperienced riders are welcome: we prefer to position them towards the rear of the group. We ask that new riders be comfortable with their bikes and abilities before attempting a group ride.

2. Arrive at the ride starting point at least 10 minutes in advance to allow for pre-ride preparation. This would include such things as a safety check, discussion of the route and fuel stops and a review of hand signals which must be used during the ride.

3. Arrive with a full gas tank, an empty bladder and appropriate riding gear. Don’t assume that because it is warm when you leave that it will be that way until you get back. Bring clothing for cold and/or wet as well.

4. We will ride in a staggered formation with a two second gap between bikes in the same tire track.

5. If a space occurs in the staggered formation it should be corrected by riders in the same tire track moving forward to close it rather that everyone switching between left and right tire tracks.

6. Staggered bikes coming to a stop will assume a side by side formation and leave the stop and enter the intersection together. Although bikes will leave the intersection together, the bike in the left tire track will move off slightly faster so that we are back in staggered formation by the time we clear the intersection.

7. The Road Captain (lead bike) will initiate the speed and lane changes. Do not pass the Road Captain.

8. A Sweep (last bike) will be appointed for each ride. The Sweep will be responsible for pulling over to assist another bike should that bike signal that help is needed. The group will continue on until all bikes can safely pull over.

9. Two or more groups may be formed depending on the number of bikes that are involved in a ride. Each group will have a separate Road Captain and Sweep.

10. Passing will be initiated by the Road Captain’s flasher, then hand signal, then he/she will pull out and secure the passing lane as long as traffic permits.

11. Follow the bike in front of you.

12. Regardless of the Road Captain’s signals, a rider is responsible for his or her own safety at all times.

13. Once the group has departed from a stop it is expected that there is a commitment to go to the next stop. If you know in advance that you will be leaving the group ensure that you inform the Sweep and/or the Road Captain and then ride toward the back of the group, or as directed by the Sweep.