Sunday, January 29, 2006

Safety Conventions for Group Riding

Safety is always the first thought; you are responsible for the safe operation of your own bike. 
 
Obey all traffic rules of the road, even if you are riding in a police-escorted group.  Signal for turns and stops, and give the right of way to other motorists when needed.  Be aware of other motorists around you on the road, and remember that even though you are riding in a large group you still need to watch out for yourself and other bikes around you.
 
The safest and most efficient group riding method is the staggered formation.  When a group is riding in a staggered formation, it takes up less space on the highway than a single file line, is easier for other motorists to see, and is less likely to be separated by other traffic. 
 
The staggered formation is the best way to keep ranks close and still maintain an adequate space cushion in front of, and behind, each rider.  A space cushion gives each rider plenty of room to maneuver and still maintain the riding formation. 
 
The Ride Leader will usually ride in the left third of the lane, while the next bike stays at least one second behind and rides in the right third of the lane.  The rest of the group follows this staggered pattern, so that every bike is at least two seconds behind the bike directly ahead.
 
Trikes and sidecars should ride in the center of the lane, at least two seconds behind the bike ahead.  Riders following a trike or sidecar should allow additional space cushion because three-wheeled vehicles may slow down dramatically before entering sharp corners.
 
A rider who wishes to change lanes or change position within a lane should first signal that intention, both by turn signal and by hand signal.  Then, after a mirror check and a head check to make sure it is safe, the rider can make the change.  Remember to maintain a good space cushion at all times.
 
It is illegal and dangerous to pass another bike in the same lane, unless that other rider has signaled you to proceed.  To fill a gap in the staggered formation, the next rider behind the gap should change position to the opposite side of the lane, and then ride forward to fill the gap.  Following riders should then each change lane positions and ride forward to reestablish the staggered formation.
 
Enter the freeway in single file, and be aware of vehicles coming up in the slow lane behind you as you merge.  Allow vehicles in that lane the right-of-way: you are merging into their lane.  As soon as it is safe, reestablish the staggered formation.
 
When traveling on the freeway, be aware and cautious of other vehicles entering the road or exiting by merging through the convoy of bikes.  Give the other motorists room to merge in safely; don’t try to cut them off just so you can keep up with the bikes in front of you.  Usually, other motorists will quickly get out of the middle of a long procession of bikes if you allow them the opportunity.