Hand Signals

Left Turn Right Turn Hazard - Left Hazard - Right
Speed Up Start Engines Stop Slow Down
Single File Staggered Formation Tighten Up

Formation Riding

The staggered riding formation (see diagram below) allows a proper space cushion between motorcycles so that each rider has enough time and space to maneuver and to react to hazards. The leader rides in the left third of the lane, while the next rider stays at least one second behind in the right third of the lane; the rest of the group follows the same pattern. A single-file formation is preferred on a curvy road, under conditions of poor visibility or poor road surfaces, entering/leaving highways, or other situations where an increased space cushion or maneuvering room is needed.

Formation Riding

This 10-minute edit of the video in the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's Guide to Group Riding Kit explains riding formations, pre-ride meetings, hand signals, and more.



Safety Tips

In the following video, Richie Morris Race Team members Michael Barnes and Danny Eslick share their tips for preparing your bike and your body before a ride. In the video you will hear other riders tell their crash stories and learn how to avoid having a crash story of your own.


Motorcycle Rider Program

Motorcycle Rider Program