Ride Etiquette

Ride Etiquette

Motorcycle Enthusiasts Club of Gold Coast Ride Etiquette

When you ride within a Group there are certain points or ride etiquettes that need to be considered to ensure a safe and pleasurable ride for all participants.

Please consider the following points:

  • DO NOT PASS THE RIDE LEADER.  To be considered as riding within the Group you must be placed between the Ride Leader and Tail-End Charlie.
  • If road conditions permit, it is permissible to ride in staggered formations.
  • The rider BEHIND the Ride Leader will set the formation.  If the formation changes and it is necessary to change sides in the lane do so ONLY WHEN IT IS SAFE.
  • When the ride reaches a junction or corner, the rider BEHIND the Ride Leader ‘corner marks’.  That is the Rider stops where it is safe, close to the corner and indicates (left or right) so that the following riders know which path to take.  The Corner Marker waits for ALL RIDERS to pass and re-joins the ride just in front of Tail-End Charlie, who will give a signal (often a toot of the horn) to do so.  Re-join the ride only when it is safe to do so.  Be aware of following traffic.  You are allowed to make your way through the pack to any position you like as long as you are still between the Ride Leader and Tail-End Charlie.
  • If you decide to leave the ride, inform the Ride Leader and Tail-End Charlie.  If not practicable to inform both, at least tell Tail-End Charlie.
  • NEVER EVER OVERTAKE ON THE LEFT (INSIDE) of another rider.  Overtake only when it is safe to do so and abide by the road rules.
  • DO NOT TAILGATE.  Leave between 3 to 5 seconds between you and the bike in front.
  • Make sure your bike is fully fuelled and your bladder is empty BEFORE leaving on the ride.
  • It is not easy to keep a head count of riders.  If you think someone is missing, ask if they have left the ride or stopped – look out for your mates!
  • Staying in the same place within the group is a much safer option than overtaking everyone in front of you.  Usually the slower riders begin (and remain) towards the rear of the ride group.
  • Every rider has his or her own skill level.  RIDE TO YOUR OWN ABILITY AND SKILL LEVEL AT ALL TIMES.
  • Always be on the lookout for the unexpected such as Dogs, Kangaroos, Birds, Branches, Pot Holes, Distracted Car Drivers etc.  Stay Upright and Stay Safe.

Follow the above and you and your mates will enjoy many enjoyable rides with little or no challenges.