Riding in the formation with the club. (tar)
The long standing request is that the slower riders and less powerful bikes ride up front, the reason for this is to keep the group together, appropriately spaced, as we ride in the staggered formation.
Coupled with this, keeping, as best we can the space between the rider ahead constant, and keeping contact with those behind ....riders and other road users, and move over to allow faster vehicles through, and to watch that those behind pick up the turn- offs.
This is important as the guys at the back can , and often do need to ride well faster than the group to catch up.
This does expose them to unnecessary traffic fines as they play yo- yo to keep with the group especially down the N1, as the front of the group does not go more than +- 125kph, but those at the back can hit + 150 at times to keep up.
Can we re-check our skills in this area?
Riding in formation is something that something learns in the club, but takes a little discipline if you're used to riding alone. Indicating, watching behind, riding in a staggered formation all takes a bit more concentration but makes the ride safer for everyone.
We probably need a bit more emphasis during briefings now that the club has grown so much.
Also something to consider is new motorcyclist who has just started, will find it hard to keep formation and distance and be intimidated by other motorcyclist who ride close formations.
A tip for riding on staggered foramtion is to hang back from the bike in front of you and position yourself so that you can see his face in his rear view mirror, this means that he can see you as well. Often people ride up in your blind spot - dangerous!
@ Chris H, agreed hence the club's request that they ride up front....ie bike #2, 3, 4.... are the least expierienced/ slower/ 650 singles, thereafter the rest.
@ P Phred....True,the old story,always valid for cars and trucks too!
Having beginners ride in formation, especially just behind the leader, means their attention is consumed with trying to ride in formation instead of worrying about other distractions like corners, targets to fixate on, speed etc.
On my first breakfast run, it was the riding in a group that worried me most, but once we started, the orderly way in which it is done made it easier for me as a beginner. I knew where I belonged in the group, I wasn't getting lost, left behind, overtaken, bullied or left in any doubt about what I should do (yes, I know I have issues...).
In contrast, when we finished breakfast and everybody went their own way, I got left behind and lost, and had a torrid time trying to get home on my own.
