How to Ride Motorcycles in a Group
Many people enjoy riding their motorcycles by themselves, but there’s something to be said for the joys of riding motorcycles in a group. You get to bond with your fellow riders, make friends, create memories, and experience something together that you wouldn’t have otherwise experienced by yourself. However, it is important to ensure that you and your group are prepared for a ride together. Here’s what you need to do.
Plan Your Route
First, gather everyone together to choose a route to ride. Make note of any stops that you want to make along the way and determine some meeting points that everyone can gather at in case someone falls behind. You’ll want to choose a route that is easy for your most inexperienced rider to ride.
Select a Formation
Appoint an experienced rider as the leader of your group and establish some basic hand signals they can use to communicate changes in the ride. You should also choose a rider with experience to follow the group and help anyone who needs to stop.
A staggered double line is a standard riding formation for groups, as it doesn’t take up too much road space and it allows everyone the visibility they need to avoid an accident. Each rider will follow the rider ahead of them at a two-second following distance and either to their right or left, depending.
Prepare Your Bikes
Every rider needs to make sure that their bike is in good condition ahead of a group ride. This is no time to skimp on maintenance! Check tire pressure, change oil, fill up fuel tanks, and test lights and signals. If anyone in your group requires some professional motorcycle maintenance assistance, get in touch with the service department here at Santa Maria Harley-Davidson®.
You’ll also want to pack your motorcycles with the items you need for the trip. This will include a phone with charger, water and food, riding gear, medications, and personal items. At least one rider should bring a first-aid kit and another rider should have a tool repair kit that everyone can use.
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