How to Ride Motorcycles in a Group

It’s perfectly fun and pleasant to ride motorcycles on your own, but what about your fellow biker friends? If you’re part of a motorcycle club or you simply know a lot of motorcyclists, you may want to organize a group ride at some point. A group ride can be a thrilling and rewarding experience, provided you’re adequately prepared. Here are some things you’ll want to do ahead of time.

Chart Your Course

Gather together (online or in person) with your proposed group to determine the best route to take. Select a route that is good for beginner riders so that no one feels overwhelmed. Try to figure out places to stop for gas and food along the way, and plan a few meeting points in case someone falls behind.

Tune Up Bikes

Everyone going on the ride should ensure that their bike is ready to go. Change oil, air up tires, pack necessary gear, fill fuel tanks, and test lights and brakes. Functional bikes that have been well-maintained are less likely to break down on your ride. If anyone in your group needs assistance with motorcycle maintenance, get in touch with the Crystal Harley-Davidson® service department to schedule an appointment.

Select a Formation

Riding in a formation is a great way to keep your group safe and out of the way of other motorists. Staggered V and zipper formations are very common. In the staggered V, you’ll have a leader flanked on either side by two riders who are a few seconds behind. Each pair of riders will then be a few seconds behind the pair in front. 

With a zipper, your line will be single-file, but each rider will be to the left or right of the rider ahead. Assign an experienced rider as the leader and place another experienced rider or two at the ends of the group to help with repairs or stopped bikers.

Ready to check out Harley-Davidson® motorcycles for sale in Florida? Stop by our dealership located in Homosassa Springs today to view our inventory of new and used motorcycles for sale, including the latest Harley-Davidson® models. You can also browse our stock of riding apparel to gear up for your group ride. Crystal Harley-Davidson® serves all of our customers throughout Citrus County, FL.