Group Riding Video & Advice

GROUP RIDING: by Elise Donohue

Are You Riding Within Your Limits And Your Bike’s Limits?: If you are nervous about the ride, know that it isn’t going to get any better or go away the further you get into the ride. You will know it when you are ready to embark on a group ride, and in the meantime, pay attention to that “little voice.”
Is The Distance Of The Ride Realistic For You?: The ride home can always seem longer then the ride there, especially if there is a change in weather. Make certain you and your bike are up for the challenge.
Are You Clear On The Destination Route?: Do you know where you are going, and where and when the “pit stops” for food or fuel are going to be? Coordinate stopping times based on your participants’ experience, and the size of their (different) gas tanks.
Has There Been A Review Of Hand Signals You Will Use To Communicate With One Another?: Never assume every rider knows the signals, give a courtesy review. Pre, present and post communication is key when riding in a group! Designate cell phone contact numbers in case of emergency.
Has There Been A Designated Plan If The Group Gets Split Up?: In order to manage a larger group, smaller groups should be established prior to the ride. Plans within each of the smaller groups should be made for re grouping and establish them BEFORE becoming separated. That way the yellow lights don’t become a temptation or turn into a hazard.
Who Is Responsible for Your Safety?: YOU ARE!
Who Will Be Leading The Group? This position should be accepted by someone who has had group leading experience. The leader should be able to anticipate and time their hand signals within the group, far enough in advance, so by the time the signal reaches the rear of the group, the back of the pack should be able to make the appropriate riding adjustments of the signal.
Who Will Be Taking Responsibility As A Sweep Position?: This position should also have someone with experience. It is the last position of a group and “The Sweep” has accepted the task of making sure no one is left behind, or broken down.
What If The Group Is Too Big To Feel Comfortable With Only One Lead And One Sweep?: Break up into more manageable groups and conduct each group as it’s own.
What Is The Suggested Group Riding Format? Staggered Formation. There should be a two second following distance between you and the person in front of you. A one second following distance should be established between you and the person on your front diagonal. You are creating a space cushion all around you, in case you need to maneuver. If someone falls out (leaves the pack) their spot is filled by the person on their (rear) diagonal , that means that everyone behind will re adjust to accommodate the spot that is vacant on their front diagonal until everyone is back in staggered position. The designated sweep will remain the last position and adjust accordingly. If you are going through twisties (curvy roads) ride single file so you are have enough space cushion to comfortably ride through the apex of the corners. Single file also applies to construction zones. In that situation, increase your margin of safety to compensate for the changing road conditions.
When Is The Best Time To Ride Side By Side? Unless you are Dennis Hopper and Peter Fonda, or Paunch and John…NEVER RIDE SIDE BY SIDE, They were shot that way for cinematography purposes, to fit them in the frame…not for safety. Resist the urge to “roll into town,” the consequences could be deadly. To minimize your risk on the road, always create a margin of safety to the front, the back and either side of you. It shouldn’t matter if you are riding with 1000 people, or just one other person, this strategy will always apply.