GETTING STARTED
(Images show riding on the right in mainland Europe)

In order that runs and trips can be enjoyed to the full by all concerned, that no one gets separated or lost, and as little delays and unnecessary halts are needed, the following Group Riding System should be adopted by the Group.

Where ever possible, the organiser should provide a route plan for all riders, showing the route, starts and finishes and any known lunch or break points.

All runs should start with full tanks. When the bike with smallest tank/highest consumption has to refuel, everyone else should top up unless they know they can complete the journey with what they have left.

Whilst riding in a group, it is your responsibility to keep an eye on the rider behind. Use your mirrors.

When riding, dipped headlights will be used. In the event of trouble, switch off your lights. Leading riders spotting this will also switch off their lights until the group is halted. (For countries outside the UK you may wish to select a different method).

In order to reduce the road space occupied by a group, riders will ride in staggered formation, with the lead rider taking up the off side position in the lane,

In small groups of up to six bikes, a constant position in the formation will be maintained. Do not over-take except in an emergency.

In larger groups, the 'Second Man' (person) formation will be adopted. The Leader and `Tail-end Charlie' will maintain their position throughout.

If the group gets too extended, then at each change of direction, or where there is a possibility of doubt - or where the Leader indicates - the Second Man will take up a position (marked * ) at the junction of a turning, or round-about, where he/she can be readily seen by the following riders, and will indicate the direction of travel.

As the Tail-end Charlie approaches, the Second Man will then take up a position at the rear of the group, but in front of the Tail-end Charlie.

The new Second Man will repeat the process, as required. In this way it will be possible to keep a large group together, keep the momentum going and give everyone in the group something to do.

Where the Second Man can see the Tail-end Charlie, and the group is compact, there will be no need for the Second Man to stop at a change of direction.

Group speed should be adapted to the capabilities of the smallest/slowest bike.

Anyone wishing to leave the group and make their own way, should first inform the Leader.

Remember, every time you ride as a group you attract attention, good and bad. Act responsibly. You represent the best in Motor-cycling. The better the image you convey to other road users and the public, the better it will be for the positive image of motorcycling.