Motorcycle Road Etiquette – A Guide to Following the “Road Rules”
Posted September 28th, 2009
by MotorcycleInsurance.com Staff (no comments)
by MotorcycleInsurance.com Staff (no comments)
Motorcycles are synonymous with freedom. No other vehicle allows riders to experience the speed, grace, and sheer excitement that a motorcycle does. However, there are still a few “rules” that bikers expect each other to follow, in addition to regular traffic safety laws. New (or rusty) motorcyclists should be sure to take a class on motorcycle safety to brush up on important rules in addition to these; this isn’t a comprehensive list.
Riding in a group (or solo) means that certain expectations come into play. For instance:
- Each rider is ultimately responsible for his or her own safety, regardless of what other riders may do. Be aware of other riders’ actions.
- Don’t show off.
- Maintain a regular pace—don’t slow down dramatically or zoom up suddenly. Spread out when traveling around corners or on curvy roads.
- In a group, prearrange a stopping point, and discuss other relevant information before the ride begins.
- The lead biker in a group ride should be sure that the other riders are ready to go and that there is enough room in traffic for the whole group to get on the road. It’s a good idea for the lead biker to have traveled the route ahead of time to reduce navigational mistakes and communication errors.
- Riders should leave each other with enough following distance and reaction time, and be alert to speed changes and signals by riders who are farther ahead, not just riders who are immediately in front of them.
- A staggered formation is most common except in certain situations—this means that each rider stays on a different side of the lane than the riders immediately before and after him (or her). More experienced riders should use the left positions.
- On a curvy road, it is typical to switch to a single-file formation.
- The most experienced rider is the “drag bike” (or tail gunner). This rider helps manage traffic situations, such as changing lanes as a group, and also assists riders who need help for any reason.
- Pointing down with your arm at a 45-degree angle (left or right depending on the situation) indicates a road hazard to the other riders in the group.
- To signal stop, hold your left arm down at a 45 degree angle with the palm facing the rider behind you.
- Pointing to the tank means that a stop is urgent, either for fuel or for other reasons.
- The signal for “slow down” is to hold the left arm out straight and move it up and down.
- A “thumbs up” signal means “Ready to ride!”
- Whether in a group ride or not, many riders consider it courteous to wave briefly at other riders. However, if your hands are otherwise occupied it is just as acceptable to nod.
- If you are concentrating on hazardous road conditions, it is fine to refrain from acknowledging another rider.
Safety always comes first, and etiquette is actually very much a part of safety. Not only is it pleasant and social to understand biker etiquette, the predictability of understanding and following the rules makes the ride safer for experienced and inexperienced riders alike.
Categories: Motorcycle Etiquette, Uncategorized
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