Safety tips for riding motorcycles in groups
Pre-ride checklist
Having a pre-ride checklist is a good way to ensure you have everything you need for the ride, and that your bike and gear is safe and legal. Items to have on your checklist include:
- Tyres and wheels. Check that your tyres are in good condition, and that there are no embedded objects, broken spokes, and that the tyre pressure and wear is at a safe and acceptable level.
- Controls. Check that your brakes, handlebars, and other controls are in working order before you ride.
- Lights and electrical. Make sure the battery is topped up and that your turning signals and lights work.
- Oil and other fluids. Top up your engine oil, check that you have enough fuel, and make sure that there are no leaks engine leaks of coolant or other fluid.
- Check the chassis and suspension are in good working order.
- Remember your protective gear
Protective gear
Helmets, jackets, gloves, boots, pants and protective eye wear can all help to keep you safe on a motorcycle ride. Apart from looking great, having good safety gear and clothing can reduce your risk of injury if you come off the bike. See our page on motorcycle gear and helmets for guides on what to look for when choosing gear.
Have a designated ride leader
Have someone who is in charge of communication, who has planned out the route, know when turns are, and know when the group is stopping for a break. This will help the ride go smoothly and ensure everyone knows what is going on and stays together. The ride leader should be an experienced rider who is aware of the skill levels of the other riders in the group.
Check out this video from the Ulysses Club Inc on the importance of a ride leader:
For more videos like this, check out Ulysses Club's Facebook page.
Staggered riding formation
If safe, consider riding in a staggered formation. This puts space between motorcycles so each rider has the chance to react to any hazards, or any changes in speed or direction of the rider in front of them.
On straight roads, ride at least two seconds apart. For high speed or curved roads, increase that distance to three or four seconds. Never ride side-by-side as this increases the chance of bikes clipping each other, and means that if you do have to adjust your direction to avoid a hazard, you may not have room to do so without colliding with the bike next to you.
Fatigue
Fatigue is just as dangerous for motorcyclists as it is for other vehicle drivers, as any inattention can cause mistakes that could lead to a crash. Plan your route, know where rest stops are, get plenty of rest beforehand. Remember to stay hydrated and plan to have breaks if you are planning a long trip. Don't ignore signs of fatigue. If you find yourself losing focus, take a break. For more general information on fatigue and tips and tricks to help with managing it, visit our fatigue page.
First aid
Motorcyclist are some of our most vulnerable road users, because motorcycle crashes are high impact and can cause serious injuries. Having a first aid certificate is highly recommended. Carry a first aid kit with you so you are ready if anything should happen. The first few minutes after a crash are vital if someone has been injured. Until help can arrive, your knowledge of first aid can save a life, so keep your knowledge up to date.
Recommended resources
For more information on riding safely, or for a sample pre-ride checklist, check out the following resources:
Pre-ride checklist:
Motorcycle Safety Foundation's collection of safety booklets.
To get or renew a first aid certificate, visit St John Ambulances' list of first aid courses
For more videos on riding in groups, check out Ulysses Club Inc's Facebook page and website.
