Group Riding
Intro
Group riding is probably one of the riskiest things you can do on a motorcycle that doesn't involve jumping over buses like Evel Knievel.
The club would very much like everyone who comes on a ride to do the following:
- Make it to the end for a coffee and a bite to eat, and,
- Get home in the same condition they started in.
There are some very simple but vital rules to group riding that the Enfield Riders Club of Auckland promote and use on each and every ride. We would encourage you to read through and make yourself familiar with them.
Our Ride Captain holds a ride briefing before each and every ride, and these rules will be mentioned.
Staggered Formation
- Ride Captain at the front in the right-hand wheel track, with new-to-group riders directly behind in a staggered formation.
- Riders alternate wheel tracks from the Ride Captain back.
- Keeping our gaps tight reduces the overall length of the column.
- Staggered formation allows each rider the freedom to move left or right to avoid obstacles in the road, or to set up for the corners without worrying about the rider immediately behind.
- Absolutely No Overtaking On Club Rides!
- Posted speed limits will be adhered to.
Parallel at Junctions
This rule is used for a couple of good reasons.
- It reduces the length of the column at junctions, reducing the impact on traffic flow.
- Allows as many riders as possible safely through the junction, keeping the pack together.
- Makes group members very aware of where they should be, and where other riders will be when approaching and coming to a stop at a junction.
Single File in the Corners
So much of the fun on group rides is the windy bits of road we take you down. Getting through the windy bits safely as a group is why we encourage members to attend Pro-Rider training, as they teach and practice this very technique.
When cornering It is important NOT look at the rider in front, but to concentrate on the corner's vanishing point and use only your peripheral vision to keep an eye on that rider directly in front.
ERCofA understands that we lead riders at all levels of experience and capability, so we take the windy bits at a safe but fun pace.
It is really important to ride your own ride in the bends, as this is where things can go wrong very quickly if riding beyond your comfort level.