Group Riding Rules
- Pre-Ride Briefing:
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- Objective: Ensure all riders understand the route, stops, and signals.
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- Content: Discuss the route, planned stops, hand signals, and any specific instructions.
- Ensure fully fuelled prior to arriving at start point.
Meeting and route plan info:
Meet at WS14 0QP meet wall McDonalds
- 8.15 – Paul & Phil will arrive
- 8.45 – Briefing
- 9am – Prompt set off
- Destination The Old Smithy Monyash, DE45 1JH, 10.15 approx. arrival
Phil Crowley will be Tail Ender
- Formation:
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- Staggered Formation: Riders should maintain a staggered formation to allow better visibility and safe distances. The lead rider stays on the left side of the lane, the second rider on the right, and so on.
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- Single File: In narrow or winding roads, riders should switch to a single file for safety.
- Lead and Tail Riders:
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- Lead Rider: Paul will set the pace and ensures the group follows the planned route – 07852 332 405He will be wearing an Orange & Yellow Florrie and will be in comms with Tail Rider on Cardo.
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- Tail Rider: Phil Crowley will stay at the back to ensure no one is left behind and assists with any issues. 07792 119 484. He will be wearing an Orange & Yellow Florrie and will be in comms with Paul via Cardo also.
- Second Man Drop-Off System – If you don’t know then see last page for reference
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- Procedure: The lead rider signals the second rider to stop at junctions or turns to guide the following riders. The second rider waits until the tail rider arrives, then rejoins the group ahead of the tail rider.
- The second man does not leave his post until tail rider arrives.
- Lead rider may choose to pull over safely if large gaps appear in the group and tail rider has not been seen for some time.
- Spacing:
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- Safe Distance: Maintain a safe distance between riders to allow for sudden stops and manoeuvres.
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- Adjusting for Conditions: Increase spacing in poor weather or low visibility conditions.
- Communication:
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- Hand Signals: Use standardised hand signals for turns, stops, and hazards.
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- Indicators: Use bike indicators to signal intentions clearly.
- Speed and Overtaking:
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- Consistent Speed: Maintain a consistent speed that is comfortable for all riders.
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- Overtaking: Overtaking is permitted but exercised with caution when in the group. No one must overtake lead rider.
- Breaks and Stops:
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- Regular Breaks: 1 break planned in as per schedule.
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- Regrouping: We will ensure the group regroups at designated stops before continuing.
- Emergency Procedures:
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- Breakdowns: The tail rider assists with any breakdowns or issues.
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- Accidents: Follow emergency protocols, provide first aid if necessary, and contact emergency services.
Safety and Courtesy
- Protective Gear: All riders should wear appropriate protective gear, including helmets, gloves, jackets, and boots.
- Respect Other Road Users: Be courteous to other road users and follow traffic laws.
- Camera Footage: No Camera footage to be shared on social media
The second man drop-off system is a method used by motorbike groups to ensure everyone stays on the correct route without getting lost or separated. Here’s how it works:
- Lead Rider: The lead rider knows the route and sets the pace for the group.
- Tail Rider: The tail rider (often called “Tail End Charlie”) stays at the back to ensure no one is left behind.
How It Works:
- As the group approaches a junction, turn, or roundabout, the lead rider signals the second rider in the group to stop at the turn.
- The second rider then waits at the turn, indicating the direction to the following riders.
- Once the tail rider passes, the second rider rejoins the group, slotting in just ahead of the tail rider.
Benefits:
- Prevents Riders from Getting Lost: Ensures everyone knows the correct route.
- Maintains Group Integrity: Keeps the group together without constant stops.
- Reduces Pressure: Less experienced riders can follow without feeling pressured to keep up.