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Leading a Group Motorcycle Ride
By Dano
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:
1.
Distance of total tour and daily riding distance.
2. Route to be taken (prepare maps for your riders)
3. Fuel and restroom stops (How often will the group stop)
4. Speed the group will travel (Hwy Speed)
5. Budget Considerations (Accommodations and Food)
6.
Flexibility, (Do we reserve rooms and restaurants ahead)
7. Points of interest (visiting attractions and free time)
8. 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!
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