How to Ride a Motorcycle With a Group

The highway is not the place to socialize. If you like to ride with others, do it in a way that promotes safety and doesn't interfere with the flow of traffic.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Motorcycle Clothing
• Motorcycle Gloves
• Motorcycle Insurance
• Motorcycles
• Eye Protection For Motorcycle Riders
• Federally Approved Motorcycle Helmets
• Motorcycle Saddlebags

1. Keep the group small - four or five motorcyclists at most. Small groups make it easier and safer for other motorists to get around you if they need to. And a small cluster isn't as easily separated by traffic or red lights, so riders won't always be hurrying to catch up to one another. Divide a large group into two or more smaller groups.

2. Note that the best way to keep close ranks and maintain an adequate space cushion is to ride in a staggered formation. Ride on the left side of the lane if you're the leader, stay a little behind on the right side if you're next in line. Take the left position two seconds behind the first if you're third in the pack, and maintain a three-second cushion behind and to the right if you're fourth. This configuration keeps everyone close without riding in tandem or reducing following distances.

3. Keep the group together and look ahead for changes when you're the lead bike. Let your riding partners know ahead of time when you're going to switch lanes or make a turn, and begin the change early so everyone has plenty of time.

4. Place inexperienced riders behind the leader where they can be watched and instructed.

5. Allow the tailender to set the pace. Use your mirrors to keep an eye on the biker behind you, and remember, if he or she falls back, everyone should slow down to keep the group together.

6. Make sure everyone knows the route so riders who get separated from the main group won't have to hurry for fear of taking a wrong turn or getting lost.

7. Keep close ranks, but maintain a safe distance from each other. Bear in mind, a close group is easier to see, takes up less road space and is less likely to separate.

8. Assume a single file formation during turns and when entering or leaving a highway.

Tips & Warnings

• Pass other vehicles one at a time when riding in a staggered formation. Pull out and pass when it's safe to do so if you're in the lead. Then take the left lane position and get way ahead to open a gap for the next rider. If you're next, watch for a safe chance to get into the new lane, pass the vehicle and open a gap for the motorcyclist behind you.
• Riding in tandem is dangerous because you might not be able to avoid an emergency on the road.
• Wait until you're both stopped if you need to talk to another rider.
• Motorcycling is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. Drive defensively, observe all traffic laws and avoid potential hazards. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.

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on 11/22/2005 When going through a stop sign, the entire group goes through as one. This helps keep the group together. When turning at an intersection, maintain your lane position through the turn. If you are in the left lane position, finish your turn in the left lane position. The same holds true for the right lane position.