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Participating in a Ride

Drinking and driving never mix. This is especially true when participating in a group ride
Always ride in staggered formation; it gives you an extra margin for safety
Make sure your vehicle is in good operating condition. For example, a bad tire could cause an accident on a group ride
Being too hot or too cold can also affect how alert you are as a driver. Be sure to pack appropriate protective clothing, such as a long-sleeve cotton shirt (for protection from the sun), helmet, eye protection, leather jacket, gloves, etc.
Always ride with your headlight on; it's a law in most states. Cars have enough trouble "noticing" motorcycles; riders should do everything possible to help them out
A group of motorcycles is not considered a single vehicle. Be courteous and allow cars to enter and exit the highway and change lanes. Generally speaking, a car will not want to ride in the middle of a group of motorcycles and will get out of the group as quickly as possible
Familiarize yourself with the route and scheduled stops
Arrive to participate in a group ride with a full tank of gas

(Credits - Information on this page obtained from H.O.G. 2000 Chapter Handbook)


Hand Signals

Hand signals should be simple, easy to learn and kept to a bare minimum
Either the rider or passenger can relay the signal. As soon as you see a signal, you should give the same signal so the rider behind you can see it
These hand signals will not always be used by every group you ride with. The signals assembled here are offered as suggestions only.

Start Your Engines - To indicate that you're ready to go, place your hand (right or left) on top of the windshield. If you don't have a windshield, raise your hand. This tells the leader that your engine is running and you're ready to ride.


Slow Down - Use either arm, straight down and palm toward the back. Move your arm back and forth at the elbow.


Hazard on the Road - Point with left hand at the object. Sometimes in group riding, the road captain may wave his left arm back and forth above his head to alert the rest of the group. The road captain is the only person who should perform this maneuver.


Need Gas - When you need gas, point at the gas tank.


Need Food - When you need food or a break in general, point at your mouth.


Turn Signals - Most bikes have turn signals - use them. Hand signals used in conjunction with turn signals gives everyone in the group and other traffic a clear idea of your intentions.