While it is true that "birds of a feather flock together," it is also true that "friends in all weather ride together.
" While road trips are thrilling for motorcyclists, the fun becomes exponentially greater when engaging in group riding.
However, keep in mind that the number of riders also exponentially increases the potential for accidents.
Before you pack up your motorcycle luggage and hit the road, consider these motorcycle group riding safety tips: 1.
Remember that a street is not a track All members of a motorcycle riding group should refrain from racing, during a road trip.
Remember that speed limit signs are unlike the suggested speeds posted on the autobahn.
Breaking a speed limit involves breaking the law! 2.
Make adjustments for stragglers Although the leader should set the pace for the riding group, never make it mandatory for all riders to cruise constantly at that pace.
The riding group should stop at all intersections, and wait for any stragglers to catch up.
Remember that this is not a race.
Part of the enjoyment is riding as a single unit.
3.
Stay out of a leading rider's blind spot How far should you trail behind a leading rider? You should be able to view his helmet, from his side-view mirror.
It is extremely important that you stay out of his blind spot.
Failing to do as such could require him to turn his head, to determine your location.
4.
Stay within sight of the rider ahead of you It is important for a rider trailing another rider, to stay within the latter's side-view mirror.
This will help to dispel any doubt about the trailing rider's location.
Ultimately, it is the leader rider's "job" to ensure that each rider (except himself, of course), adheres to this practice.
It will help to verify that that the group rides in an orderly and safe manner.
5.
Ride orderly in a multi-lane scenario When the group encounters a road with multiple lanes, it is important to allow the leader to, well, lead the way.
Let him select the lane and a reasonable speed for cruising in the lane.
It is vital that the riding group switches lanes in an orderly fashion, adhering to changes that the leader makes.
When passing other vehicles, the group should also follow the actions of the leader.
However, keep in mind that each rider should also use his own judgment whenever necessary, to ensure his own safety.
6.
Practice proper passing It is important for all riders to use proper passing methods, to ensure that safety is a priority.
It is important never to pass another motorcyclist, until he has waved you on.
Additionally, it is crucial always to pass on the left side of the biker, rather than on the right side.
Again, it is important to maintain order when enjoying a road trip with a riding group.
Motorcycle riding groups allow us to share one of our beloved pastimes.
By following some basic safety guidelines, you can exponentially increase the thrills, and decrease the spills.