So, my neighbor and I have been inviting just about everyone we know (and meet) who has a bike to go group riding. Last Saturday, there were seven of us who went out for a few hours, and it was pretty successful. Everyone kept ranks on the highways, and once we got to the back roads, everyone proceeded at their own pace.
For those who have more experience than I do, what are some ways to communicate mid-ride between the group? Effective hand signals? I like to do route planning, so should I pre-ride the route before leading it?
Here's a picture of most of us at a rest stop:
It's tough coordinating a larger ride like that. Seems that four riders is about the max until you start developing group problems.
Most rides, if I'm leading, I use modified versions of these commands. Usually only need "stop", "slow down", or "move out".
Example: We're coming up on a road obstacle. If it closes the road I'll signal stop by holding up my left hand. If the obstacle is gravel or something we can safely go around I'll signal to slow down and show the path around by riding through. I'll use the move out if I pass a car and see the road ahead is clear. I'll signal to "move out" letting the riders behind me know it's safe to pass.
You can also use other signals if you explain them to the riders pre-ride.
So far as a planned route. No problem there. Just print out enough to pass around. Most maps will fit in a tank bag pretty well. I've seen this done on poker runs and other ride "your own pace" rides.
