In an effort to provide for a safe and enjoyable ride for all participants, the following information relating to group riding has been provided by the Defenders Chapter 11 NS (Amherst).

Performed correctly, riding in a large group can be a lot of fun; however, if done incorrectly, a group ride can be dangerous for the riders as well as the public. All participants are responsible for ensuring their own personal safety.

1. All riders taking part in a group ride must conform to the laws and Defender protocols in effect.

2. Group riders should use one lane in a staggered formation. The leader of the individual group (Road Captain) rides to the left side of the lane, while the second rider stays a little behind and to the right side of the lane, one (1) second behind the leader. The third rider will take a position to the left side of the lane, two (2) seconds behind the leader. The fourth rider would be to the right of the lane and two (2) seconds behind the second rider and so on. (To maintain a safe distance (two seconds) simply pick a stationary object (fence post, hydro pole, painted road markings, etc). Immediately as the motorcycle directly in front of you passes the marked you selected, then start counting, one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two.....you should now be at that selected mark.)

3. While group riding there are a series of standard hand signals given by the leader (Road Captain) which are used to denote various instructions to the riders. Each rider in succession is to repeat the hand signal for the benefit of the riders behind him. This will ensure all riders in the group see and understand the signals as given by the Road Captain. (Refer to page on Hand Signals)

4. Single file will be assumed upon command of the Road Captain (i.e. curves, tight turns, or secondary roads).

5. Riders must always be conscious of other vehicles wishing to pass let them do so.

6. Riders passing other vehicles on a two lane highway must pass one at a time and allow the vehicle a reasonable space before pulling in front of them.

7. Check the space behind. Let the Tail Gunner (last rider in the group) set the pace. Use your mirrors and shoulder checks. If he or she falls behind, slow down the pace. Watch the rider behind you.

8. Inexperienced riders should be directly behind the Road Captain or the Lead Rider.

9. If the ride is pulled off the road, both riders and motorcycles must keep as far off the road as possible.

10. In the case of a rider pulling over, the Tail Gunner (last rider) will also pull over to assist. The remainder of the group will continue. If the Tail Gunner has a C.B. radio, he will inform the Road Captain of the current status. If it is in the opinion of the Road Captain that the group should also pull over, they will do so at the first safe area.

11. It is every rider’s responsibility to be aware of potential hazards and notify other riders behind them by radio, hand signals, or tapping their brake lights.

12. At stop signs, lights, etc, the staggered formation shall double up and proceed in pairs, then resume staggered formation thus limiting time lag and possible traffic hazards. The use of Blockers may be used when safe to do so.

13. Channel 15 for C.B. radios, is the designated channel for use by the Defenders Chapter 11. The Road Captain may use his/her discretion to designate an alternate channel before each ride if necessary. The placement of riders with C.B. radios will be at the discretion of the Road Captain to ensure the maximum benefit to the group.

14. When parking in a public lot, all bikes will be parked in such as manner as to cause as little inconvenience to the public as possible. Preferably angled and maintaining riding position within the group.

In summary, our goal is to provide for as safe a ride as reasonably possible for all riders and passengers participating in the Ride.

Have fun and ride safe.