Group Riding Criteria

 

The Kirkwood Hog Road Captains have been given the responsibility for the safety of a Group Ride.  Since a group ride is an organized ride with motorcycles riding very close together, we have to take several things into consideration for the people that are allowed to participate in the group. One mistake or bike going down can cause several bikes to crash, in a group ride. The Head Road Captain, Safety Officer, Team Leaders or their designee, or Chapter Officers can make an informed decision to not allow someone on or to leave a group ride. This would only be done for the safety of the riders and passengers in the group.

 

If you do not meet the following criteria for a group ride you can still go to the destination.  You can sign-up for the ride, but leave early or late on your own.  This will make the ride safer for yourself and everyone else on the ride and everyone can have fun at the destination.

 

1.  Know your limits and ride within them, never ride above your abilities.

Mental- concentrate on the ride and the bikes around you, if things are bothering you and you can not concentrate, it is not the time for a group ride.

 

Physical- If taking drugs or alcohol, prescription or otherwise, do not go on a group ride.  The group only stops at pre-determined stops, if you need to stop more often, you will not be able to go with the group.  Fatigue – Many of the group rides are for many hours in one day.  Some are as long as 8-10 hours in one day.  If you are in a cast you will not be able to ride in the group.

 

Motorcycle- Tires, Wheels, Controls, Lights, Oil, Chassis, Kickstand

 

Environment- Be prepared for different types of weather and different types of roadways.  It could be very hot or cold and we could be on Interstates or curves.

 

Experience level- If you do not ride very often and are not comfortable riding close to other riders do not go on a group ride.  Get used to riding with small groups before riding in a large group.

 

2.         Come to the ride prepared.

Full tank of gas & an empty bladder, motorcycles properly packed & in a safe condition, appropriate riding gear.

 

3.         Maintain a constant speed, always ride in a tight but courteous formation – staggered or single file.  This is called a group ride, and you should ride in the proper way.  If you do not keep the proper distance we are no longer in a group.  If you are not comfortable with riding as a group you should not be in a group ride. Meet us at the destination and ride on your own.

 

4.         Novice or riders that are new to group riding should ride at the back of the group.

 

If it is determined that there is a safety problem for the group, a rider can be asked:

to ride in the back of the group, and/or

to put the bike on the sag wagon, and/or

to leave the group and ride on their own.

 

The safety of our members is our main concern and we will continue to do our best to see that every ride is as safe as possible.

 

If you have any questions, feel free to contact our Head Road Captain.