Leading a Group Motorcycle Ride
Being the leader of a motorcycle tour is more than being the first in line in a group of your motorcyclist friends. It is a responsibility that takes careful planning. Depending on the size of the group and the distance to be traveled, the amount of preparation varies. Having a plan and working out the details with the participants in advance will make your ride more enjoyable for everyone. The success of the tour will usually be determined by the attitude of the participants. If people know what to expect, they will be happier campers. Many times one grump has made my day less than perfect because he/she didn't understand the details of the ride in advance.
There are 8 main Planning Points that should be considered when planning a motorcycling tour:
- Distance of total tour and daily riding distance.
- Route to be taken (prepare maps for your riders)
- Fuel and restroom stops (How often will the group stop)
- Speed the group will travel (Hwy Speed)
- Budget Considerations (Accommodations and Food)
- Flexibility, (Do we reserve rooms and restaurants ahead)
- Points of interest (visiting attractions and free time)
- Safety, Riding gear and emergency planning Pre Ride Planning
A pre ride get-together is a great time to outline your trip to potential riders and get input on the wants and needs of the participants. I usually start this informal meeting by outlining the trip planned. I like to have an outline on paper for each member of the group, including maps and points of interest. The better I am organized, the smoother the meeting goes. I like to let the group know that not everything is up for discussion and that some decisions have already been finalized. Usually the trip has a firm destination along with the departure date\time and estimated arrival back home.
I then like to outline the eight areas of concern, giving my recommendations based on experience and preliminary conversations with the members of the group prior to this meeting. I also like to include photos and brochures of the points of interest to raise the excitement level. This also ads to my credibility as a tour leader and gives riders confidence that "I have been there and done that". I ask members of the group to let me finish my presentation before suggesting revisions. After the presentation is complete, I then ask for suggestions from the group as we go through the Eight Points one by one. I like to give every idea equal billing and always write down concerns, as not to discount anyone’s opinion.
I also use this get together for riders to size up the group and potential problems before the ride. Do the riders have compatible goals and is the likelihood of a successful adventure high? Recognizing different tastes and finding riders of like-styles will make your motorcycle touring much more enjoyable.
Eight Planning Points
1. Distance to be traveled
After years of riding in all types of conditions, I believe the correct distance for most touring cruiser groups is from 200 to 250 miles per day. Of course this varies with every group, but I believe in the adage that "It's not the destination but the adventure getting there that is most important". I personally enjoy the first mile as much as the last when on a tour, but I also enjoy the fellowship that takes place when the group is stopped. I certainly don't consider myself an "iron butt" rider but I do ride with some friends that prefer to ride more miles per day. The important point is that everyone is in agreement and knows what to expect before the trip begins.
2.Route the tour will take
It is always a good habit to print up maps for each member of the tour group. Group members always feel more secure if they know what is going on. It is also important if members become separated from the group. Have predetermined meeting places marked on the map for these types of situations. Trade cell numbers to aid in finding lost riders. I also always double check with the State Police to be sure there are no road closures or construction areas.
3.Fuel and Restroom stops
Usually, I like to stop once every hour or when a member of the group signals that a stop is necessary. During all stops we discuss what points of interest are coming up on the next segment and where and when the next stop will take place. Always make it clear that bathroom stops can be made with no hassle at any time. Riders have different needs and different comfort levels. Remember that a comfortable rider is less likely to be grumpy and ruin the day for others. Fueling considerations are always important. When traveling with large groups, we usually alternate fueling at every other stop. Of course fuel mileage and tank size is a consideration. We always carry a siphon hose to loan some fuel to a disabled rider or if we have a chase vehicle, we always carry a gas can. I always try to make fuel stops on the right hand side of the road. It is much easier to keep the group together upon re-entering the highway when everyone is turning right. I also avoid stopping at gravel lots. Gravel is always trouble to motorcyclist and nobody likes it. Gravel almost always guarantees at least one dumped scooter.
4. Speed the group travels
The speed that you travel is very important to riders. More than once, I have seen members leave the group to travel alone because the group is traveling too fast. Many riders refuse to ride faster than the speed limit so your travel speed should be discussed before embarking. A good rule of thumb is to ride from 5 mph below the speed limit up to the posted limit. Remember that it is also dangerous to ride too slow. Always obey traffic laws, wear safety gear and keep your group together and safe. Inquire with riders in the rear of the group to be sure they are not having a problem keeping up. Rubber banding is not good because if the group gets too spread out many times automobile motorists will get in the middle of your group. Most automobile drivers don't feel comfortable riding in the middle of a group of motorcycles so they will usually move out of line quickly. It is also considerate to let those in the front take a turn at the rear. Remember riding in the front is usually less stressful and everyone should take a turn.
5. Budget Considerations
When planning for a trip it always important to have a budget in mind for the group. If the group has planned a low budget trip it should be pre-determined what type of restaurants and hotels should be considered. Again, it is most important for members of your group to know what to expect and how much it will cost. Nothing is more embarrassing than to have a credit card rejected in front of friends. When making fast food stops, I like to stop in an area where several choices are available. Remember to give riders a place and a time for continuing your tour. Encourage riders to be prompt returning to avoid conflicts.
6. Flexibility
Different types of touring groups operate in different ways Usually large groups, 10 or more riders need to make reservations for restaurants and hotels ahead of time to insure availability. Smaller groups can be more flexible because their needs are usually easier to fill. My usual riding group likes to take it as it comes and we usually don't make plans ahead for hotels or restaurants unless we are attending large events where accommodations may be unavailable. We like to look for that special out of the way spot that we have never been to before. It's always an adventure that way. Sometimes we find a jewel and sometimes we get stuck in a flea bag. The Flea Bags always provide the best stories and most laughs while reminiscing later.
7. Points of Interest
Remember that all of us have different tastes, from the motor that we ride to the flavor of ice cream we order. Where we plan to spend our sightseeing time on a touring vacation is an important ingredient that will effect the level of satisfaction for riders. When preparing for a group ride, I like to contact the local chamber of commerce and get as much detail as possible for my group before final plans are made. Let them know what sites are available, how much they cost and the hours of operation.
Okay, I know what you're thinking. A large group will never agree on exactly where they would like to spend their time. That's OK, because now is where my years of traveling around the world comes in handy. Designate periods of free time, where your group has time to visit sites, walk in the park, take a nap, or just get away from the crowd for a break. Usually groups will pair up with newfound friends and enjoy activities that they have in common. Many times an evening on your own is a great break to the regimen of group travel. Designate a time and place for getting the group back together again, usually at a restaurant for breakfast, and continue refreshed and usually in better sprits after your short time away. Remind riders that this is a vacation, not boot camp.
8. Safety, Emergency Plans
Last, but certainly not least, are the issues of safety and emergency planning.
A. Equipment
Safety equipment like helmets, gloves, long pants, and jackets are always a must. Plan for all types of weather and pack accordingly. Safety is the responsibility of all the riders of the group and all members should not only wear the correct apparel, they should also be sure their bike is up to snuff as far as turn signals, brake lights, brakes, running lights, and safe tires. Riders should do a complete safety check before departing and always arrive at the departing point with a full tank. Needing fuel immediately is a sign of a rookie rider and sure to annoy those more experienced.
It is also important to know the motorcycling laws in all states you will be traveling in. Be sure you have eye protection and helmets when you need them.
B. Riding experience
Know the riding capabilities of riders and where they are comfortable riding. Talk about the experience of riders in the group. This exercise is not designed to make the new riders uncomfortable but to be conscious of their needs. Ask them where they are most relaxed riding and try to accommodate them. I usually suggest that we put the less experienced riders in the middle of a staggered formation. It is important to understand that a rider has limited experience and for more experienced riders to give them extra room when they need it.
C. Staggered Formation
Talk about the staggered formation of riding and what each hand signal means. Be sure you are all on the same page and understand where they should be riding and when to change position to avoid danger.
D. Buddy System
We also use a buddy system when traveling in large groups; if your buddy has problems you are the one who always stays for assistance. Usually family members and friends pair up as buddies. Friends and family members that ride together as a rule are more secure riding next to someone they know. The organizer should always be sure that newcomers have a buddy and are introduced to the group and included in conversations and the fun.
E. Road Captain and Communications
Usually a road captain (experienced rider) is put near the rear and should keep the leader abreast of any problems with riders in the group. Try to keep the group tight but at the same time always give the rider directly in front of you room to weave in case of some hazard. Radios are handy for the leader and the rear road captain but not necessary. I personally believe that hand operated radios can be distracting, much like a cell phone. Sometimes the radios become such a concern that riders are distracted and mishaps can occur. If you want to use a radio, get a hands free model that is much safer to operate and can add to your fun.
F. Breakdowns
For breakdowns and mechanical problems, I recommend the 30 min. rule. If you can repair your bike in 30 min. or less, the group will wait for you. If your repair takes longer, requires a tow, or a garage repair the group must continue to the next meal or nightly stop while your buddy will stay with you. Of course, the location of your breakdown and the severity of the problem can change the schedule. Remember that it is not rude to leave a rider with his buddy waiting for a repair while the group continues to the next major stop. Never, Never stop a large group in an unsafe place along the roadside. If one member has problems, he and his buddy should stop while the group travels to the next safe stopping area. It may be necessary to send one or two riders back to the breakdown area, but don't jeopardize the safety of the group by stopping along the roadside. With cell phones and good planning, a breakdown does not have to ruin the trip. Be considerate and tolerant of the biker with problems. Next time it could be you who needs help, which brings me to the next issue, chase vehicles.
G. Chase Vehicles
When traveling with large groups a chase vehicle gives the group an added measure of security. Whether it's a bike breakdown, an ill rider, or just a passenger who is avoiding inclement weather, a chase vehicle has saved many a trip from disaster. If you only use the chase vehicle for transporting luggage and camping gear, it adds to the comfort and convenience of all the riders.
A chase vehicle also makes transporting tools easy and can make a roadside repair possible. I can't tell you how many times we have used a little duct tape and nylon ties to get a rider to the next safe stop.
Many times a non-riding family member or friend is happy to be part of the adventure by driving a chase vehicle. I like to suggest that the motorcyclist split the cost of the chase vehicle's fuel for fairness. Of course this is part of the pre-trip decision making process.
The most important part of any two wheeled adventure is to have fun, relax, and enjoy the outdoors and the feeling of freedom that motorcycling offers. Make friends with your fellow riders and meet new folks along the journey. Sample new foods and experience the customs of the locals. Get names and numbers, business cards and e-mail addresses. The adventure of two wheeled travel is magnetic and the rewards unlimited. Expand your world of friends and learn what is really important in your life. For me it's family, friends, fellowship, and adventure. I find it all on two wheels. Ride Safe!
