BMWMOGA group ride guidelines

Group riding, such as club rides, is one of the reasons we exist as a group. When done correctly, it can significantly enhance the motorcycling experience. If not, the opposite effect occurs. These guidelines, over time, have proven to be very effective, allowing people of different riding styles and skill levels to ride together. Before riding in a group ride, please familiarize yourself with the information below:

Ride Options

Option 1: Ride within a staggered formation at the ride leader's pace WITHIN Club Ride Guidelines. Riders will follow the ride leader's planned route. Riders are free to peel off at any point after letting the ride leader know.

Option 2: Ride outside of the staggered formation at your own pace OUTSIDE OF Club Ride Guidelines. Riders will be on their own and determine at what points they would like to hook up with the club ride for meals, camaraderie and friendship.

Ride Guidelines

Ride your own ride at your own pace and skill level. Don't be influenced by others who may be riding faster or differently than you feel safe or comfortable with.

Perform a thorough a pre-ride equipment check. Ensure that your bike is in good working order with decent tires.

Use good judgement when deciding to ride. Don't ride impaired by drugs, alcohol or fatigue. Beware that some prescription drugs can adversely affect your riding ability.

Every club ride has a ride leader and pre-ride meeting. The ride leader typically plans the ride, provides route instructions, conducts a pre-ride meeting, explains the guidelines and oversees the ride.

Groups of six or more may have a sweep. It is recommended for groups of six or more that there should be a sweep. A sweep can volunteer or be appointed by the ride leader.

Groups larger than eight may be divided into smaller groups. The ride leader will appoint a ride leader for each additional group who knows the route and the planned stops.

Keep your tank full. Take advantage of stops by keeping your tank full. As a general rule, we will average about 100 miles or less between stops. Intervals may vary by ride.

Do not ride side by side or tailgate. Maintain a safe following distance of about a two to three second interval between your bike and the bike or vehicle in front of you.

Ride smoothly. Do not make sudden, unneeded moves, line changes, or braking actions.

Wait at turns if the bike behind you is not visible. At every turn ensure that the bike behind you sees you turning, and if not, wait at the turn. Riders should have confidence that the bike in front of you will be waiting at the next turn, even if not always visible along the route.

Keep passing to a minimum. Signal your intention, use discretion and take care.

No passing the ride leader without prior agreement. Do not pass the ride leader unless it has been agreed to at the beginning of the ride or at the last rest stop. The ride leader will then inform the group of the individual's intent to pass and the approximate location.

Don't leave the group without letting someone know. Riders will come looking for you if you don't show up at the next turn.