Group Riding
Chapter 129 will normally ride in a staggered formation. In staggered formation, the bikes form two columns, with the leader at the head of the left column, so he/she will be able to view all bikes in the formation in his/her rear view mirrors, and be able to see around vehicles the group approaches. The second bike will head the right column, and will ride approximately 1 second behind the leader (and in the opposite side of the lane). The other riders will position their bikes 2 seconds behind the bike directly in front of them, which puts them 1 second behind the diagonal bike. This formation allows each rider sufficient safety space, and discourages other vehicles from cutting into the line. The last rider, or Tail Gunner, may ride on whichever side of the lane he prefers. He will have to change sides during the ride, based on the situation at the moment. The Road Captain will communicate with the group using hand signals. You have to understand the meaning of the hand signals to ride safely and know what is happening. Once initiated by the Road Captain, every rider will repeat the hand signals until it reaches the end of the group.
Before the Ride
All riders are expected to arrive at the meeting point on time to take part in the pre-ride briefing. You are also expected to have a full tank of gas, a full stomach, an empty bladder, and properly clothed, ready to ride for at least two hours before the next stop. Remember where we live....the weather can change pretty quickly.
The Road Captain will brief the group on the general conduct of the ride to include: route, stops and any particularities of the chosen ride. On longer rides, maps can be issued to riders. If the group is too large and we have to split it, if you want to ride with friends, make sure you are in the same columns.
If you are an experienced rider but new to Group Riding, inform the Road Captain. Novice riders and inexperienced Group riders’ positions within the group are significant. They should be positioned as close to the front as possible. There is no shame in being new at group riding. You'd be amazed at how many bikers have never ridden in a group.
If you know you will have to leave the ride before it ends, inform the Road Captain.
Safety is everyone's responsibility. No alcohol will be consumed before or during a Chapter sanctioned ride. Anyone consuming alcohol while on a sanctioned ride will be asked to leave the ride. Do not use any drugs or medication that would impair your judgment or ability to ride.
Any concerns should be taken up with the Road Captain before the ride starts or as soon as possible thereafter.