By MIKE Phillips |
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ROAD CAPTAIN
MOTORCYCLING is primarily a solo activity , but riding with a group can be the ultimate riding fun for many . A group ride can be with a few friends , a club , or a ride organized for pleasure or charity . Group rides can be an excellent way for CMA members to meet and minister to new people . Keeping riders safe and having fun is the responsibility of the entire chapter . Here are some ways to make your next chapter group ride safe and fun . Most people on group rides enjoy the ride , but we must listen to comments from those who did not like the ride . These are the most common complaints I have heard . The ride was too fast or too slow , too long or too short . There needed to be more rest or gas stops . We got separated , and I lost the group . The group was too big . I didn ’ t know where we were going or how long it would take . The ride leader turned too fast and did not signal far enough in advance . I went on a few rides , and no one spoke to me or made me feel welcome .
The ride leader is often referred to as a road captain ( RC ). The RC is the one most responsible for the ride . There should be a lead RC and a trailing RC , often called a sweep . The RC and sweep need to communicate with each other ; this can be by radio or cell phone . The RC plans the ride with several things in mind . First , we must appeal to a broad spectrum of people with different levels of ability and riding styles . Let ’ s be mindful of people and provide them with rides that appeal to each one . A group may need to be split into casual , easy
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roads or challenging , advanced routes .
When we are all going to the same destination , advanced riders can leave first , with casual riders following behind with their own RC . The route should have a rest / gas stop about every hour . Provide periodic collection points for the group to gather back together in case some get separated . These can be at the rest stop or parking lots or just slowing down enough to let the others catch up . RC should ride at or below the speed limit . Take off very slowly so others do not get left behind at a stop sign or parking lot .
RC should lead a pre-ride briefing to provide info to the group . RCs and any others helping need to be introduced . Describe the route , including miles , length of time , destination , road conditions , and speed limits . Give directions to the first stop ; that way , anyone getting separated will know where the group is going . At each stop , give directions to the next stop . Break the group into smaller groups if needed for the number of riders and ability of riders .
Review hand signals . Encourage all riders to ride within their own abilities . Make a quick visual inspection of all the bikes on the ride . An obvious mechanical or tire issue with any bike needs to be addressed before the ride starts . The RC should ensure a first aid kit and someone trained to use it is on the ride . RCs and all chapter members should speak friendly and encourage all riders .
In case of a crash or mechanical problem , the sweep will stop and determine what the problem is and what help is needed . Then , the sweep can contact the RC and tell them
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what is required . Only a few people , usually four or five , will be needed at the scene . The rest of the group goes to a safe location and waits . If all the bikes stop to help , it may cause a traffic hazard . The RC will ask people to do specific jobs such as first aid , traffic control , and calling 911 .
The bikes should travel in a staggered formation . The first bike rides in the inside portion of the lane . The next bike rides in the outside portion of the lane at least one second behind the first bike . The other bikes line up behind them , making a staggered formation . Remember , the bike in front of you can use the entire lane , so don ’ t get too close to each other . I like to have trikes ride at the rear of the group . Trikes are larger and easier to see than bikes offering protection to the rear of the group . Trikes are better able to block traffic . A trike can give a lift to a rider easier than a bike .
An RC is a very important part of a chapter . The RC should be a good rider but does not have to be the best . The RC must have a strong commitment to safety . They should set an example of safety by how they ride and their gear . RCs may identify riders who may be struggling with their riding . The RC should talk to them and offer any tips that may make the ride easier and safer .
The entire chapter is needed to make a group ride fun and safe . Every ride is a ministry opportunity . Spread out among the riders . Talk to as many riders as you can . Make everyone feel welcome . Treat all with respect . Show the love of God through your servant ’ s heart . CMA
Mike Phillips is a certified Motorcycle Safety Foundation ( MSF ) instructor in Arkansas .
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