2.1       Will observe the objectives and guidelines in order to assure the safety and the welfare of every individual within the group, and any surrounding motorists or pedestrians.

            2.2       Will follow the instructions of the Road Captains in all situations, unless those instructions place the rider or any other individual in an unsafe situation.

            2.3       Will maintain their motorcycle and other equipment in a safe riding condition.

            2.4       Will ride with head lights on.

            2.5       Will ride with a “safety first” attitude.  The safety of all individuals, whether or not they are part of the group, is of paramount importance.

  3.0       MEETING PLACE AND DEPARTURE TIME

            3.1       Meeting place and departure times will be reviewed at the Member’s Meeting preceding the scheduled event.  Remember to check the website or your e-mail for details.

            3.2       Rider briefing will be held just prior to departure, to establish a schedule for gas and rest stops, inform the group of the intended route, provide other pertinent information, and review the group riding guidelines including formations and procedures.

            3.3       Individuals should make every effort to arrive and be completely prepared for the scheduled departure time.  This includes a full tank of gas.

  4.0       RIDING FORMATION AND INDIVIDUAL POSITIONS

            4.1       The standard formation, under good conditions of road, traffic, and weather, will be a double row, staggered, in one traffic lane (ref. Section 5).  The interval will be no less than one second between staggered riders (ref. Section 5).

            4.2       The Lead Road Captain will be at the head of the group, and typically will ride just to the left of lane center.  Other Road Captains, may be assigned positions within the group, just behind the Lead Road Captain.

            4.3       New members, guests, and any riders with little experience in group riding will be positioned at the back of the group, just ahead the Sweep Road Captain.

            4.4       Each rider should maintain his or her starting line up position in the group until arrival at the destination.  This allows each rider to become more familiar with the riding style and habits of those nearest him or her in the group, and is particularly important for the new or inexperienced riders.

            4.5       Under certain conditions the Lead Road Captain will signal the group to form a single file formation.  The signal is the left hand held overhead with a front and back chopping motion (ref. Section 11).  Drop back to a safe following distance from the rider in front of you (ref. Section 5), and move into a single file.

            4.6       It may be necessary to form smaller groups for safety due to surrounding conditions or local ordinances.  The Middle Road Captains are authorized to slow down their part of the group, take the Lead position of the new group, and proceed as the Lead Road Captain of the group.

            4.7       This may mean the last rider of each group would become the Rear Road Captain for that group.  If possible, this rider should be another recognized Road Captain.  If another Road Captain is not available, this rider should be briefed prior to the run as to his or her responsibilities in the event this situation should occur.  The new Rear Road Captain is NOT to take on the responsibilities of Sweep, unless authorized by the Lead Road Captain to do so.

5.0       SPEED, INTERVALS, AND DISTANCES

            5.1       The Lead Road Captain will attempt to establish and maintain a uniform speed, consistent with the ability of the least experienced rider, surrounding conditions, the posted speed limit, the bikes at the ride and safe riding practices.

            5.2       The Road Captains may choose to separate the group of inexperienced riders into a group of their own, consistent with expected or actual conditions.

5.3       All riders will make an effort to maintain the same speed to minimize the effect of irregular speeds on riders at the rear of the group.

5.4       All riders will maintain a safe distance (ref. Section 5.5) and lane position between themselves and the rider directly ahead; to be consistent with existing road, traffic, and weather conditions.

5.5       Minimum Safe Following Distances:

5.5.1    Within the group, a safe distance is defined as a MINIMUM TWO SECOND DELAY between the rider, and the next rider directly ahead (ref. Note).   This means that there is a MINIMUM of a ONE SECOND DELAY between staggered riders.  Whenever a single file formation is employed, a safe distance remains defined as a MINIMUM of a TWO SECOND DELAY between the rider, and the rider directly ahead.

                        5.5.2    With respect to vehicles ahead of the group, a safe distance is defined as a MINIMUM of a THREE SECOND DELAY between the Lead Road Captain, and any vehicle directly ahead of the group (ref. Note).

NOTE:            It is important to keep in mind that a two second interval is a MINIMUM safe requirement in order to react in the event of a potentially hazardous condition, NOT TO STOP.

In group riding, a one second interval between STAGGERED riders is a policy consistent with the recommendations of most traffic and safety agencies within the state of New Jersey.  STAGGERED motorcycles are considered to be in a virtual lane of their own, that is that there is a two second interval between motorcycles in a direct line.  This group riding technique requires all participants to constantly ANTICIPATE an EMERGENCY.

5.6       A safe lane position is defined as riding immediately to the right or left of lane center.  This will keep the riders just off the center oil stain, while maintaining the staggered formation, distance between riders and other obstacles, and providing necessary lane protection (riders who regularly ride on the outside edge of a lane are often subject to our four wheeled friends sharing lanes at speed while passing).

6.0       TRAFFIC LANES

6.1       The Lead Road Captain will attempt to lead the group in a single lane; where the traffic flow appears to be most consistent with the speed of the group; using lane changes only when necessary to pass slower traffic or to avoid a hazardous condition; and avoid blocking faster surrounding traffic.

6.2       Oh highways with two lanes each direction, the group will normally travel in the number two lane (also known as the “SLOW”  lane, (ref. Note); allowing faster traffic to pass to left; except when passing slower traffic on the right.

6.3       On highways with three or more lanes in each direction, the group will normally travel in the number two lane (ref. Note), keeping the right lane open for other vehicles entering and exiting the highway, and the left lane(s) for faster traffic to pass.

            NOTE:            Lanes are counted from left to right.  The left lane is often referred to as the “FAST” or “PASSING” lane, and is counted as lane number one.  Remaining traffic lanes are then counted up until the right most, or “SLOW” lane is counted.

7.0       LANE CHANGING AND PASSING

7.1       On a multi-lane highway, the double row staggered formation will be normally maintained.

7.2       The Lead Road Captain will hold his or her position and signal for a lane change.

7.3       All riders will hold their positions and pass the signal to the rear.

7.4       The Rear Road Captain will change lanes at the first safe opportunity, protecting the lane for the group, and allowing the Lead Road Captain to see that the lane is clear and protected.

7.5       We then change lanes using the “follow the leader” approach.  The Lead Road Captain will change lanes first followed by all other riders moving from the front to the rear of the group.

            NOTE:            NOBODY, except the Sweep, is to change lanes before the Lead Road Captain.  ALWAYS make a HEAD CHECK before you begin the lane change, and maintain safe distances.

7.6       There are times it will not be possible for the entire group to change lanes as above.  When this situation arises, the Road Captain will signal for a turn, and signal the group with one finger extended in the air.  This indicates that changing lanes as a group is not possible.  The Road Captain will then change lanes when safe to do so.  Everyone signals, head checks, and changes lanes front to back, as individuals, when safe to do so.  Should the group become separated, regroup when it is safe to do so.  Please use known good safety practices, INCLUDING HEAD CHECKS.

7.7       On a two lane road with two way traffic (one lane each way), a single file formation should be used when passing other vehicles.  On occasion, the Lead Road Captain ma continue in the passing lane, while safe to do so, allowing other riders to see the way is clear for them to continue the group passing maneuver.

7.8       If for any reason the group becomes separated, merge safely back to the pack, returning to your original position, using known good safety practices.  Don’t feel it’s necessary to break the world land speed record in trying to catch up.  The Lead Road Captain will be aware and adjust accordingly.

            NOTE:            Be certain the road is clear, and always make a HEAD CHECK immediately prior to initiating any maneuver which may cause you to cross other road users.  The Road Captain, your mirror, or what you saw just a second ago are no substitutes for your own eyes and good judgment!  PLEASE remember that YOU, and ONLY YOU, are RESPONSIBLE for YOUR SAFETY.  Also, that when dealing with our four wheeled friends, you will never win a contest against them.  It won’t do any good to be “Dead Right”.

8.0       GAS, FOOD, REST STOPS, AND TOLLS

8.1       If necessary, due to the length of the trip, gas, food, and rest stops should be discussed and scheduled prior to departure.  These scheduled stops should be adhered to as much as possible, depending on varying conditions as the trip progresses.

8.2       Deviation from the scheduled stops may be required due to varying weather, traffic, and bladder conditions (availability of gas, rider fatigue, and other unforeseen circumstances).

8.3       Gas and rest stops should be limited to no more than ten to fifteen minutes, depending on the size of the group.  Remember, the last rider in the group waits the longest; therefore, has the shortest rest period.

8.4       Meal stops will vary in length with the size of the group, but should be held to a reasonable minimum.

8.5       If toll stops are included, money should be collected in advance.  If available, a riding couple should be positioned in the number two slot.  As the group approaches the toll booth, the Lead Road Captain will allow this bike to assume the lead position in order to exchange the toll.  The Lead Road Captain will assume the lead as soon as it is safe to do so.  If a riding couple is not available, then it becomes the Lead Road Captain’s responsibility to pay at the toll booth.

            NOTE:            Remember to avoid the center of the lane when nearing or passing through a toll booth.  THEY ARE USUALLY EXTREMELY SLICK.

9.0       UNSCHEDULED OR EMERGENCY STOPS

9.1       Unscheduled stops for gas, restrooms, or rider fatigue can lead to confusion in the group, and confusion can lead to accidents.  The Lead Road Captain should be informed that a stop is necessary in order to lead the group in an organized fashion to the next convenient and safe place to stop.

9.2       Any rider with an equipment problem should inform one of the Road Captains as quickly, and as safely as possible.

9.3       When the Lead Road Captain is informed, he or she will stop the group at the earliest possible moment, when and where, it is safe.

9.4       If the rider must pull over immediately, ONLY the Rear Road Captain will accompany that rider to a stop.  The Lead Road Captain should be informed if he or she is not aware of this situation.  Once the Lead Road Captain is informed, he or she will pull the group over as soon as it is safe to do so.

9.5       Any rider observing a problem with another rider’s equipment should inform that rider as quickly and safely as possible.  If it appears that a stop is necessary, a Road Captain should also be notified.

10.0     ACCIDENTS

10.1     In the event the group comes upon the scene of an accident, the Lead Road Captain will stop the group at the earliest possible moment (keeping with known good safety practices).  It may be necessary for the group to disperse and park separately to avoid creating additional hazardous conditions.

10.2     Members of the group will provide assistance in any practical way possible, including, but not limited to:

10.2.1  Slow, divert, or stop traffic in a safe manner, using flares if available.

10.2.2  Aid and comfort those involved.

10.2.3  Call 911 to notify the police, ambulance, and or fire service as the situation demands.

10.2.4  Maintain order and preserve the accident scene for police investigation.

10.2.5  If possible, take photographs.

10.2.6  If possible, obtain license plate numbers and vehicle descriptions, including driver descriptions, in the event of a hit and run violation.  Remember, it will do no good, to attempt chasing some down just to end up in an accident yourself.

10.2.7  Obtain names and addresses of witnesses if necessary.

10.2.8  If possible, maintain overall control of the situation until relieved by the proper authorities.

11.0     HAND SIGNALS

11.1     At all times, standard hand signals will be used for: changing the formation to a single row and back to double staggered, all turns, lane changes, slowing, and stopping.  Turn signal lights will also be used at all times.

11.2     All signals will be relayed to the rear of the group to allow all riders to take appropriate precautionary measures, and be aware of changes in speed and direction.

11.3     Hand signals will be used at all times, to point out road hazards to following riders by pointing.

11.4     Left arm held high, hand over head with a front and back chopping motion indicates single file, and extended following distance (ref. Section 5).

11.5     Left arm held high, with two fingers extended over head indicates the standard staggered formation (ref. Section 5).

11.6     Left arm held high, moving in a circle, indicates a U-turn.

11.7     Left arm held high, one finger extended over head, followed by the Road Captain signaling and changing lanes indicates:

            11.7.1  The Lead Road Captain will move as an individual, to whatever maneuver or position is required.

            11.7.2  The group will follow as individuals, in a “follow the leader” approach, signaling and following the Road Captain as appropriate and safe.

11.8     Other signals may be developed and added as required. (see attached from MSF.com)

12.0     SAFETY EQUIPMENT

12.1     As mentioned previously, it is assumed that all riders will come to the ride with a well maintained motorcycle.

12.2     All group riders are encouraged to bring a well stocked tool kit to all club rides.

12.3     All group riders are encouraged to bring a well maintained First Aid kit to all club rides.

12.4     The Lead Road Captain will be responsible for bringing the following to the run:

12.4.1  First Aid kit.

12.4.2  Route maps.

12.4.3  Run information.

12.4.4  Waivers.

12.4.5  New member forms.

12.4.6  Cell phone.  If a Road Captain does not have a cell phone, he or she will locate another group rider who does (obviously, subject to availability), and designate that rider as 911 caller.

13.0     TIPS & PAST EXPERIENCES....Nothing can replace Good Judgment and Common Sense

13.1     It is recommended for the Road Captain to have scouted the route prior to conducting the ride.

13.2     Be aware of places you may have to stop.  Watch for loose gravel or sand

            13.3     The arrows painted on the lanes indicating the lane traffic flow become slick when wet.

            13.4     Watch for oil slicks around stop lights, stop signs or around areas where cars may have to sit for a period of time.

            13.5     The use of 2-way radios between the Road Captain and Tail Gunner is Highly         Recommended.

13.6     When pulling out from a stop sign or stop light and after making a turn, an even, steady acceleration is highly recommended.  This will keep the formation together better than speeding up & having to slow back down.  Do not slow to make sure the formation is following.  This will cause a back up & may actually prevent the rear bikes from making it through the light.  If the formation is broken by whatever reason, keep the speed limit to 5-10 miles below the posted speed limit to allow the rest of the formation to catch up.  You do not need to stop, (this is a judgment call based on the road & the traffic flow).

13.7      If the formation is broken, and there is a turn in the route, formation does need to stop as close to the turn as possible, allowing the trailing group to see where you turned.  You may also instruct (prior to the ride in the pre-ride brief) that the last person in line wait at the corner to guide the rest back up to the formation.  This is the Road Captain's decision based on what they know of the route, the traffic, and safe riding practices.

13.8     Summer time & asphalt do not mix well, kickstands will sink in & the bike may fall over.  Be aware of where you park

13.9     All riders need to pay attention to the bikes and traffic around them!!!!!  Nothing is worse than a bike hitting another bike in formation because they were not paying attention.

13.10   If you need to speed to get to your destination.  You should have made better plans & started earlier.  Chapter group rides are supposed to be enjoyable not facing events.

13.11   Riders… So what if the Road Captain makes a wrong turn, sometimes that's how you find that hidden special road!!!!!!

            13.12   If you think you need to burn a whole tank of gas before you stop for a 5 min break, you are missing half the fun of riding with a group.  The BS sessions at stops are all part of the experience.

            13.13   If you know the trip will take 3 hours, plan on it taking 4. Something will always happen to cause a delay.  The larger the group, the more time you should allow for rest stops, gas breaks, food breaks, etc.

            13.14   One lesson that the MSF class teaches that I think needs to be clarified better is their admonition to always stop with one foot on the ground.  Fine, if it is a small bike, but a touring bike should be stopped placing both feet on the ground at the same time, in my opinion.  A slick spot is unforgiving, and very dangerous.  Your rear brake can be released if your front brake is holding at 2 MPH with no concerns whatever (Obviously, you do not put feet down until the bike is fully stopped.) The MSF used to teach that you stop with your RIGHT foot on the ground and the other on the peg.  That was changed to LEFT foot down so that you could keep your right foot on the brake.  In either case, by definition, your bike is not vertical with only one foot on the ground.  If you must make a fast departure (to get out of somebody's way, for example), it takes more time to do so with one foot down rather than two.  This, because you must straighten the bike as you depart you have a more erratic start and you must first take your right foot OFF the brake all time consuming Finally, you can probably rather easily handle a smaller bike with one leg, but a large touring bike is another case entirely. [There are always exceptions to the rule, of course if you are stopped at a light on a severe incline; your right foot belongs on the brake pedal.  Similarly, in a panic stop situation you want to stop with your foot still on the rear brake.

          13.15   Assuming you are in the slow or second slowest lane and you approach an on-ramp, do a head check to the RIGHT.  Equally as important if you are approaching an off-ramp, do a head check to the LEFT (and catch that guy who is about to cut in front of you to make his exit).

          13.16   REMEMBER!  Too much following distance can be just as bad as, and frequently is WORSE than too little following distance.  If the formation lacks uniformity in what we appear to be doing, then we don't "look" like we are "together" as group.  And we become regarded as random individual vehicles in the traffic pattern, and not like a group or unit trying to function as one vehicle. Too much following distance INVITES cars into the formation, splitting it up in traffic- And if we don't control our lane space the cars WILL take it away from us.  Be prepared!  Non-motorcycling car drivers really do NOT understand what we do when we ride as a group or why.  So, if a car starts to blindly move into or through the group LET THEM IN.  We can always re-form the group a little later down the road.

Footnote:

If you are new to group riding or are uncomfortable riding in a group, please let the Road Captain knows.  Excessive following distance defeats the purpose of maintaining an equally spaced stagger formation.  It is much better for your safety and the safety of the group that you ride individually 1/4 mile behind the group. And we want to encourage you to be comfortable about making that choice.

13.17   If you need to leave the ride early, please notify the Road Captain AND the Tail Gunner where you plan on leaving the group.  If possible be at the rear of the formation (ahead of the Tail Gunner) prior to leaving the group.  Any bikes following should move up into the standard group riding positions.

13.18   BLOCKING… Remember that the cars on the road have the right of way and blocking is considered illegal.  Blocking should only be done with prior arraignment with the local law enforcement officials.  It may take a few extra moments to wait for the traffic to clear, this will keep the formation together and Safer.  If the formation does get split up, refer to the section on rejoining the formation.

13.19   TUNNELS... The Blue Ridge Parkway is a favorite place to ride for many local and out of state riders.  Numerous tunnels exist on the parkway.  Some are over 1/4 mile long.  There is no lighting in Parkway tunnels.  Cars are required to turn on lights, but some don't.  On a cycle, the instant of going from Sunlight to Darkness is disorientating.  Your eyes are not used to the dark.  The first thing you do is instinctively brake a little.  The eyes of car drivers as well do not adjust to darkness instantly­ they may not even see the yellow line on the road in a tunnel.  In addition there, bicyclists may be encountered in tunnels as well. SO, WHEN APPROACHING TUNNELS, SLOW FAR AHEAD OF TIME, ALLOW MORE SPACE BETWEEN RIDERS, GET INTO SINGLE FILE.  STAY AWAY FROM THE YELLOW LINE.  You may encounter one tunnel after another so maintain this safe riding posture as long as you are in "Tunnel areas" of the parkway.

            13.20   CURVES.... Many roads in the mountain are switchbacks, with non-stop sharp curves.  You are riding along at 40 mph, come into the curve and you are down to 15.  With a tight curve, riders behind you cannot see that you braked, or have little room to brake and slow, so it is easy to get bunched up.  STAY IN SINGLE FILE ALWAYS, MAINTAINS GREATER SPACING BETWEEN RIDERS.

PAY ATTENTION.  A group of riders were riding on the park-way.  The lead bike missed a sharp curve, left the parkway and went over the side of the mountain and fell 60 feet, resulting in a rider death and a critically injured passenger- Riders in the group said that it appeared the rider, while entering a sharp curve looked away for a second, and then missed the curve.  Many areas on the parkway and other mountain roads are like riding on the edge of a cliff.  You miss your turn and you are airborne without a parachute!  It's not the fall; it's that sudden stop at end that'll get you. Also be aware that after heavy rains on these kinds of roads in the mountains that sand and mud will be washed down onto the road & can make the curves & corners very dangerous­. There are many opinions on curves.  A lot depends on how sharp the curve is. This, in my opinion, is one of the many reasons to ride in a good even staggered formation.  This allows riders to be able to shift in the lane to take a curve better. Several groups have established signals to spread out the gap & this works well before going into curves to allow more freedom for the individual riders to have more space to work with.  If the RC sees that the curve may be a little sharp for the group, he/she can anticipate by signaling to slow down before going into the curve.  If the road contains sharp curves, I would recommend single file formation, spaced at least 3-4 seconds apart.  This gives the rider the option to use as much of the road as they want and also allows for people slowing down when going into sharp comers.

I highly recommend that the RC be aware of the riding experience of the people they are leading on a ride.  A pre-ride of the route (when possible) is also recommended It is also up to the individual rider to admit to his/her abilities.

  (When leading a new rider through some curves.  They said they were fine every time I asked.  They ran off the road & dumped the bike.  Afterwards they finally told me they were having some troubles.  But held back from telling me. Just a tad too late at that point.)  I also know groups that will split up by ability when encountering a long series of sharp curves like Deals Gap Biggest thing to remember is use good judgment & common sense.

14.0     CONGRATULATION ROAD CAPTAINS!

  You have just volunteered for the most challenging and rewarding position within our club. Once you have been appointed or elected as a Road Captain you will have joined a very special team that will help plan, organize, and execute our club rides.  The following guidelines have been developed to give you a basic understanding of the responsibilities and recommended qualifications expected of our Road Captains and Tail Gunners, and the methods we employ to help ensure everyone's safe return home and have an enjoyable ride.

14A      OBJECTIVES:

            14A 1   Provide for the safety and welfare of all individuals within the group, and any surrounding motorists or pedestrians.

            14A 2  Lead the group to its destination and back in an organized, disciplined, and safe manner.

            14A 3   Avoid creating hazardous situations.

            14A 4   Be the most knowledgeable of the state laws and the safe riding guidelines and principles.

14B      ROAD CAPTAIN RECOMMENDED QUALIFICATIONS:

            14B 1   Maintain a current and valid motorcycle driver's license.

            14B 2   Maintain current and valid motorcycle insurance, with no less than the MINIMUM required by the state of New Jersey for street riding purposes.

            14B 3   Recommended maintaining a current First Aid/CPR certification.

            14B 4   Recommended to have successfully completed a MSF, Experienced Rider Course,

            14B 5   Tact & understanding of people should be a high priority.  Remember that you were once a new rider.  Deal with problems & issues, as you would want to be treated.

14C     ROAD CAPTALN'S RESPONSIBILITIES:

14C 1  Has full charge of the group until arrival at the destination.

14C 2  Will lead the group in a manner consistent with the objectives and guidelines as stated herein, and will execute his or her best judgment in situations not specifically covered in these guidelines.

14C 3  Will brief other assigned Road Captains / Tail Gunners as to route, responsibilities and other details pertinent to the ride prior to departure.

            14C 4 Will conduct a rider's briefing prior to departure.

14C 5  Will be responsible for the final decision with regard to ride termination due to inclement weather, hazardous conditions, or other difficult or unsafe conditions

14C 6  Will instruct any rider to ride in a specific position within the group, or leave the group entirely, for reasons of misconduct, disorderly or unsafe riding, or faulty/unsafe equipment.  Common sense and tact should be used.

            14C 7  Will be responsible for bringing a well-maintained First Aid kit to the ride.

            14C 8 Will be responsible for bringing a well-stocked tool kit to the ride.

            14C 9 If possible, bring a cell phone for 911 purposes.

            14C 10 Locate other cell phones and first aid kits.

14C 11            If the Road Captain does not possess a cell phone, if possible, designate a 911 notification caller within the group.

14C 12            Will establish and maintain a uniform speed consistent with the ability of the least experienced rider, and with consideration of safe road conditions, traffic, and weather conditions.

            14C 13            Will be responsible for initiating all maneuvers within traffic in a "safety first" manner.

            14C 14            Will lead the standard formation of a staggered double row, in one traffic lane,

            14C 15Will be at the head of the group, and will ride just to the left of lane center.

14C 16Will maintain a safe following distance by using the MINIMUM 3 Second rule between the group and any vehicle ahead.  This distance may be increased at the discretion of the Road Captain, but will NOT be decreased,

14C 17            Will command the group to a single file formation when they cannot maintain visual control of the road conditions ahead over a MINIMUM of a 4 second distance, narrow road, mountain / curvy road, traveling adjacent to parked vehicles, or any other condition which may severely restrict the ability of individual group emergency avoidance maneuvers

15.0        TAIL GUNNER:

            15.1     Will assist the Road Captain in the performance of his or her duties.

            15.2     May be required to assume the duties of Road Captain in his or her absence.

            15.3     Will be responsible for bringing a First Aid kit to the ride.

            15.4     Will be responsible for bringing a well-stocked tool kit to the ride.

            15.5     Will ride at the rear of the group (except when conditions dictate otherwise) unless required to take on the responsibilities of The Road Captain.

15.6     Will be observant of any hazardous conditions or conduct, take immediate corrective action, and inform the Road Captain at the earliest safe opportunity.

NOTE: The urgency to inform the Road Captain is left to the discretion of the observing Tail Gunner.

            15.7     Will normally ride where they can see the formation the best.

            15.8     Lane protection is the Tail Gunner's added responsibility.  On the highway, as the group prepares to make a lane change, the Tail Gunner will make the lane change as soon as is safe to do so, followed by the Road Captain, then the remainder of the group. In this way, the Tail Gunner protects that lane keeping it clear for the entire group to move into this lane

15.9     Is responsible for keeping all riders in formation.  Should a rider need to pull over immediately, ONLY the Tail Gunner or assigned formation mechanic will accompany that rider to a stop.

IF POSSIBLE, INEXPERIENCED RIDERS AND/OR NEW MEMBERS SHOULD BE LINED UP BEHIND THE ROAD CAPTAIN SO AS TO DETERMINE THE SKILL LEVEL OF THE RIDER.  IT IS UP TO THE ROAD CAPTAIN TO SEPARATE THE THEM INTO ANOTHER GROUP DEPENDING ON CONDITIONS AND ASSIGN THEM A ROAD CAPTAIN.

16.0     ROAD CAPTAIN CHECKLIST:

Welcome riders and introduce road captains

Have member's sign sign-in sheet

Have non-members sign waiver sheet

Define destination and outline route

Determine gas stop requirements

Outline itinerary for the day

Determine return plans

Review riding standards

Staggered position and safe distance

Entrance and exit

Lane changes

Single file procedures

Hand signals

Broken bike procedure

Responsible for locating or bringing a toolkit, first aid kit and a camera (emergency use)

Locate a cell phone and designate a member for 911 notifications

Determine riding group by size, skill level, & cruising speed

Remind everyone to have fun, to ride safely,

And always offer thanks from

Jersey Shore Riders for attending.

Pictures from MSF’s Guide to Group Riding: Hand Signals