Touring With a Group
This is usually because of the experience of being out in the country enjoying unfamiliar roads, staying in new places, eating in new restaurants and in general having fun! We are at present doing Road Tours in Australia for Edelweiss Bike Travel and as the Australian Franchisee, we can offer road tours to our riders for destinations all over the world. Edelweiss brochures with 33 destinations world wide are available through us. If you would like a copy please give us a call and we'll mail one out to you, while stocks last.
With our tours, each riding route is designed to offer a full day's riding adventures as well as varied road terrain and landscapes. Time is allotted for sight seeing, photos and refreshments. We know that some people prefer riding on their own rather than with a group but there are benefits for riding with the tour guide, especially in a country where they travel on the right hand side of the road.
On our tours we do it in a way that promises safety and doesn't interfere with the flow of traffic. If a group is larger than 6 we usually split into two groups. When leading a group I try to keep the following points in mind:-
_ I plan ahead as far as possible for changes in road surface and traffic flow
_ When changing lanes do it early when possible
_ Using mirrors to keep an eye on the group and after lights, stopping where safe for the group to catch up, if appropriate.
_ I let the group know where the next stop or destination is (maps are given out on our tours)
_ The three second gap is suggested as the safest following distance and you should double it if it's raining
_ Single file formation is the best especially when riding curves, turning, entering or leaving a highway
_ Create a buffer zone from approaching traffic or stationary vehicles
_ Protect yourself from the elements - wind, cold and rain make you tire quickly so dress appropriate and carry extra warm gear
_ Stop at regular intervals
_ Don't drink or use drugs. Artificial stimulants result in fatigue and when they wear off you will be sadly lacking the ability to concentrate on the task of operating your motorcycle.
Until next time,
Stay Upright in a group!
Warwick Schuberg
Stay Upright
Motorcycle Techniques