Safety Tip 2 - Hand Signals
These signals will not cover every communication need, but they should provide sufficient means for the group to communicate while riding. Hand signals are to be repeated by every rider in the group.
START ENGINES
With your right or left arm extended, move your index finger in a circular motion.
LEFT TURN
Raise your left arm horizontal with your elbow fully extended. (Normally, we will use turn signals)
RIGHT TURN
Raise your left arm horizontal with your elbow bent 90 degrees vertically. (Normally, we will use turn signals)
HAZARD LEFT
Extend your left arm at a 45 degree angle and point towards the hazard. Note: Hazard warnings can be initiated by any riders in the group.
HAZARD RIGHT
Extend your right leg at a 45 degree angle and point towards the hazard. Note: This method can also be used (left leg) to point towards a hazard on the left
SPEED UP
Raise your left arm up and down with your index finger extended upward.
This indicates the leader wants to speed up.
SLOW DOWN
Extend your left arm at a 45 degree angle and move your hand up and down.
STOP
Extend your left arm at a 45 degree angle with the palm of your hand facing rearward.
SINGLE FILE
Position your left hand over your helmet with your fingers extended upward. This indicates the leader wants the group in a single file formation. Usually this is done for safety reasons. (In single file the distance between riders increases to 3 to 5 sec)
TIGHTEN UP
Raise your left arm and repeatedly move up and down in a pulling motion. This indicates the leader wants the group to close ranks.
Other hand signals commonly used are:
* Low on Gas: Pointing to the gas tank
* Need Food/Drink: Pointing Hand to mouth
* Emergency vehicle near: Tapping on top of Helmet … need I say more?
* Someone forgot his/her Blinker: Arm extended with fingers and thumb opening and closing rapidly pointing at the offending rider. Also known as “the sign of shame” …
* Turning around: Left arm extended with hand circling.