Before a ride, take a few moments and look over your motorcycle. These are quick checks, and a more detailed look should be done with regular maintenance.

• Tires – pressures, wear, cracks, possible punctures 
• Chain – adjusted and lubricated
• Lights – running lights and indicators working.
• Leaks – anything dripping from you bike is likely going to need some attention. Oil on your tires could be a disaster.
• Luggage – Panniers, bags and items tied down are secure.  

Full Tank of Gas

• Arrive at your pre-determined meeting place with a full tank of gas. 

Protective Gear including your Passenger

• ATGATT – “All The Gear All The Time” is a necessary requirement. 
• Helmet 
• Long Pants 
• Jacket
• Gloves 
• Over ankle Footwear

Split into Smaller Groups (recommended)

• Depending on the number of riders you meet up with, it may be necessary to split into smaller groups.

• 5 riders per group is ideal.

• Faster riders could opt to ride solo, or in their own group ahead of the others.

• It is perfectly acceptable to leave the group and bug-out, however let someone know your intention to do so. A lot of time can be wasted looking for a missing rider.

Lead and Sweep

• Delegate someone to Lead and someone at the back…. The Sweep. These should be experienced riders, familiar with a group ride situation.
• The Lead will set the pace.
• The Lead and the Sweep should know the route, rest stops and the destination.
• The Sweep will try to keep the riders together.
• No one should be behind the Sweep.
• Blocking an intersection to allow the riders through is sometimes practiced, although it is NOT recommended.

Fuel Range

• Know how far your motorcycle can go, between fuel stops.
• Re-Set your trip if you don’t have a fuel gauge.

Staggered and Single File Formation

• Lead to the left, second rider to the right and so on. Allow a minimum of 1 second between riders and 2 seconds between the rider in front of you.
• Try to keep it tight, although spacing between riders is flexible and should be adjusted based on the conditions.
• Always leave yourself an OUT.
• Close the gap in traffic.
• Be aware of target fixation.
• Single file with a 2 second gap is recommended on a twisty section of road or bad roads and intersections.

No Rider Left Behind

• Pay attention to departure times and be ready to saddle-up.
• Each rider should look out for the rider immediately behind them.
• At each stop sign or turn-off, the lead rider will pause and confirm that all riders are present.
• If a rider or riders are missing, the group will wait for the rider(s) to rejoin the group.
• If you have fallen behind, it is not necessary to ride more quickly to catch your group.
• The group will wait for you at the next turning point.
• If you need to leave the group, please inform the lead rider of your intention to do so.

Mechanical problems

• An individual rider may need to pull over, however the rider’s group may or may not notice you or be able to stop and assist.
• The other riders may pull over further up the road and try to communicate with you.
• The other groups following may stop to see if additional help is required.
• Having motorcycles and riders at the side of the road is not the best idea, so use caution and common sense.

Passing Etiquette

• Pass the vehicle one rider at a time in sequence of your riding position.
• Each rider must make their own decision about whether or not it is safe to pass.
• Do not pass one another during a passing maneuver.
• On returning to the proper travel lane, keep up your speed and do not slow down, until all riders have completed their passes.
• The lead will be aware of the riders behind making the same passing maneuvers and allow them to catch up and re-join the formation.
• If you feel the need to pass the rider in front of you, flash your high beam and make a pass when it’s safe to do so.
• You may be motioned by the rider in front of you to pass or drop back

Other Suggestions 

• Cell Phone / GPS
• A Health App can be downloaded with your medical information and Contact and Emergency Contact Information.
• Medications.(Stings, EpiPens, diabetic shock etc.)
• Let someone in your group know if you have any health issues that could need attention.
• Cash / Credit / Debit Card
• Tool Kit / First Aid Kit
• Water / Snacks