Group riding has definite advantages. You’re less likely to get pushed around by drivers, and there’s plenty of help around if you break down. The key to minimising problems, and making a ride the best it can be, is to get together and plan ahead.
Guiding principles
- Allow more time for a journey than when riding solo - you’ll have to ride at the slowest riders pace, take time to gather together, and rest and fuel stops will take longer
- Agree the destination, route, next stop, cruising pace and riding order beforehand
- Re-assess all of the above at rest-points as you go
- Make sure everyone knows an agreed set of hand signals
- Choose a leader and tail-ender willing to wear high-visibility vests
- In a really large group, have an experienced rider mid-pack wearing a high-visibility vest
- Agree to maintain a certain pace
Check your maps
- Make the most of your riding hours by planning your route
- Laminated maps are tough and waterproof, making them ideal for touring. Learn how to read the various lines, symbols and colours
- Never read a map while riding. At low speeds, a passenger can sometimes read a map for you and give directions. Otherwise, stop to get your bearings
Agree on basic signals
Given it’s hard to understand a mate yelling through his helmet into the wind, you might like to agree on a set of hand signals to communicate.If you want to…
| If you want to… | Make this signal… |
|---|
| Point out a road hazard |
Extend left or right leg, as appropriate, at 45 degrees |
| Re-fuel |
Raise your left forearm vertically with your upper arm horizontal |
| Stop for a toilet break |
Extend your left arm down at 45 degrees |
| Stop for a drink or bite to eat |
Lower your left forearm vertically with your upper arm horizontal |
| Note speedo readings for comparison later |
Rest your left hand on top of your helmet |
