Hello,
I recently found myself about a hundred miles from home after heading out on a Saturday morning to go for a ride. On the return part of my trip, I hit the main freeway until I could get back to the more interesting rural routes leading back home. I slowly came up behind a pair of riders on what looked like dual-sports and cautiously fell in behind them as the third rider in a staggered formation.
Was this rude to tag along with them?
I wasn't sure if I was welcome to do so but they didn't try to pull away and neither of them gave me the finger or any other type of hand signal. I figured it was in all of our best interest to travel as a group. Safety in numbers, right?
I'm a new rider and very excited about that fact, as well as my recently bought GS500F. I'm doing my best not to offend other people out there as I learn. I'm grateful to have found this wonderful site!
Well, I don't know what the official "motorcyclists handbook" says, but it's like seeing two friends walking together on the sidewalk and you just kinda join in and walk with them in a staggered formation. Creepy.
Thanks. Yeah, I can understand how that seems creepy. It did feel a bit like a social experiment. I can just imagine the conversation those two must have had after they pulled off...
If I am riding on the freeway and see a group of riders heading in the same direction as me I will tag on to the back. Safer to ride in numbers I reckon.
sometimes its hard not to sort of join someones ride....
i like to do Mt Glorious and Nebo and the whole northern run (Samford, Clear Mt, Mt Mee ect.) and well so does every other 2 wheel freak, so its kind of hard not to.
It is NOT offensive to tack onto the back of someone else's ride. Often, riders will ride together for such safety. Best one I had was a rider caught me on my way home and just stayed. Then another rider joined. By the time the highway split into two there were six of us with me out front. We all knew we didn't know each other, but the other drivers didn't know that.
Experienced riders know jumping in behind to ride with another rider is common. So they did not think odd of you for doing it.
Michael
Safety in numbers!
Quote from: kininja on May 16, 2011, 08:32:42 PM
Hello,
I recently found myself about a hundred miles from home after heading out on a Saturday morning to go for a ride. On the return part of my trip, I hit the main freeway until I could get back to the more interesting rural routes leading back home. I slowly came up behind a pair of riders on what looked like dual-sports and cautiously fell in behind them as the third rider in a staggered formation.
Was this rude to tag along with them?
I wasn't sure if I was welcome to do so but they didn't try to pull away and neither of them gave me the finger or any other type of hand signal. I figured it was in all of our best interest to travel as a group. Safety in numbers, right?
I'm a new rider and very excited about that fact, as well as my recently bought GS500F. I'm doing my best not to offend other people out there as I learn. I'm grateful to have found this wonderful site!
Yes it is presumptious! You should hang back a reasonable distance so as to show that you are not part of the group. Or, on the highway just pass and move on. You should not join in formation with a group unless invited to do so. People are riding together because they want to ride together...they don't have any particular reason to want to ride with you. If you form up uninvited, you will meet with anything from mild annoyance to getting your ass kicked.
Around here the larger groups are normally charity runs....everyone pays a "donation" fee in order to join the ride, a freeloading dead beat would not be appreciated.
Also consider that riding in a pack requires some skills, and may actually be more dangerous than riding alone......a beginner will certainly cause concern when joining up with experienced riders.
On a similar note....
Last Sunday while on my 80 mile commute to work, on a county road with 55 mph speed limit, I was coming around a long curve, at least 55 mph....In the distance, two Harley type motorcycles pulled onto the road. I quickly caught up as they were traveling at only 40 mph..... they were the typical motorcycle "gang" types, with the whole outfits and gang "colors". They were going well below the speed limit to make a point.
I just hung back a good distance behind......there was a double yellow line, and I figured if I moved up and passed, they would take it as a challenge or something.
After about a half mile the guy on the left finally looks into his rear view mirror and sees me back there.....he waves me to come on and pass......which I did.....I gave a thank you wave and got the hell out of there fast!
Cookie
Bloody iphones
Quote from: CptAwesome on May 17, 2011, 04:55:27 AM
Quote from: twocool on May 17, 2011, 04:38:20 AM
On a similar note....
Last Sunday while on my 80 mile commute to work, on a county road with 55 mph speed limit, I was coming around a long curve, at least 55 mph....In the distance, two Harley type motorcycles pulled onto the road. I quickly caught up as they were traveling at only 40 mph..... they were the typical motorcycle "gang" types, with the whole outfits and gang "colors". They were going well below the speed limit to make a point.
I just hung back a good distance behind......there was a double yellow line, and I figured if I moved up and passed, they would take it as a challenge or something.
After about a half mile the guy on the left finally looks into his rear view mirror and sees me back there.....he waves me to come on and pass......which I did.....I gave a thank you wave and got the hell out of there fast!
Cookie
Wow no offense but that sounded very pu55sy
Quote from: twocool on May 17, 2011, 04:38:20 AM
Yes it is presumptious! You should hang back a reasonable distance so as to show that you are not part of the group. Or, on the highway just pass and move on. You should not join in formation with a group unless invited to do so. People are riding together because they want to ride together...they don't have any particular reason to want to ride with you. If you form up uninvited, you will meet with anything from mild annoyance to getting your ass kicked.
Wow That Is Really Harsh.
Most riders don't care. Hell just from the replies so far, most don't care. Most I know welcome a fellow brother/sister of the road. Its not rude, its not like you stopped with them and tried to join them at a table for a meal. I stopped with other riders I've been tagging along with on long trips, had a yack, swapped details and split off.
Be polite, don't try and push in between them, don't try and show off and most riders will welcome another bike joining. Even Bikies around where I am welcome other riders tagging along, as long as they aren't drawing undue attention to them.
Do it in the car all the time. If I see other Datsun on the road I'll tag along if we aren't to far varied in speed. Datsun owners enjoy meeting other Datsun owners I've found.
Why I remember once (feel like an old man now) when I had my little KE35 Corolla that I got bored and turboed one holiday (as you do), I was traveling faster than the traffic, by a good margin when a mid 80s M5 came up from behind, moving along nicely shot past me. I took off and kept pace for a while, then dropped back and so did the M5. So I took off again and again it kept pace. Then he over took and I kept pace with him. For over 200 kilometers we did this. Stopped for petrol he pulled had a chat and that was the last I saw of him. Guy would have been a good 15 years older than me at the time. How I kept my license that day I'll never know.
Yes, you are!----No, you're not!-----Yes, you are!----No, you're not!-----Yes, you are!-----No, you're not!
What else would you like to know new rider, I hope this has been helpful.
Quote from: mister on May 17, 2011, 02:35:54 AM
It is NOT offensive to tack onto the back of someone else's ride. Often, riders will ride together for such safety. Best one I had was a rider caught me on my way home and just stayed. Then another rider joined. By the time the highway split into two there were six of us with me out front. We all knew we didn't know each other, but the other drivers didn't know that.
Experienced riders know jumping in behind to ride with another rider is common. So they did not think odd of you for doing it.
Michael
that's pretty cool. i like those kinds of random occurrences.
as long as they are down for a calm ride, i personally would not mind.
I've done it, and I've had other riders join me also. I don't think there are any problems with it. I try to hang back a little more than the rest in the group so they don't feel that I'm forcing myself into their group.
New rider here as well and havnt ran into anyone while riding yet. (friggin week of rain!!) only got 2 full days of riding since fixing up my new purchase.
Just be respectful.
If they dont want you there, I'm sure they will let you know.
and since your new, just keep a safe distance behind. (what I would do anyway)
and as far as the harley riders in possible biker gang colors.
unless your in a Bad area where u KNOW to keep your distance, I would act the same way... respectful
As I myself am more of a cruiser type of person.
but not dumb enough to get a Harley as my 1st bike or have the $ yet.
Just that whole cruiser type, mostly leather, patches, tattoo's, etc etc.
Just that whole bad@$$ appearance.
Not into the Fad part of it, I dress like that every single day since my teenage years (now 29). (Boots, leather jacket, bandannas, always in black and tattoo's)
Its just what I'm into, YEARS before I even had the slightest thought of getting into motorcycling.
Heck im not even really into sport bikes either, but the naked style is the Only style I would ever consider having and luckily enough, got one to start with.
and I am a nice respectful guy.
Hell I actually probably look weird on my GS, in all black, boots and a classic leather biker jacket.
vs everyone else I see wearing your normal sport bike clothing.
So as far as that scenario goes with cruiser (or Harley) riders go, dont judge a book by its cover.
unless ur in a bad area.
IMO it depends on the siuation. Commute time on the way to work/home, the HOV lane has a lot of bikes in it so unavoidable to run into another bike. On a weekend and I come up on what is clearly a group ride, different situation. In either case I would not run up and get right on them. But I am not going to intentionally hang back an abnormal distance, and will only pass when my ride dictates it. I view them as another vehicle on the road. Ride your ride, and all should go well.
everyone i've caught up to on my streets have been pleasant and more than willing to let you ride with.
a couple weeks ago i came up on a guy riding a SV in the back roads. he was cruising behind a minivan going pretty slow. saw check his mirrors a couple times as he start to spot me. i figured when the van turned off he'd be trying to rossi himself. sure enough, van turned off and twisted the throttle up. i've never ridden with another sport bike so i wanted to keep somewhat close to watch and learn. the first couple turns he put some serious space in between us. i'd almost given up since i didn't want to be putting myself in a sketchy spot. after he broke the line of sight i thought, "oh well, don't need to be riding with him anyways" but then whattaya know? next turn there he was slowed back and waiting on me! he started a bit slower into the turns this time, watching me to see how hard i was pushing. we rode for a good 20 minutes til my turn came up. i flicked my lights up to him, he gave a wave and went off in the distance. it was one of my best rides, got a little kick of confidence in the turns, and got to watch a fellow rider handle a suzuki in the squiggles
definitely just be respectful. they will let you know if they want you there or not.
I was actually on the other side of this issue as a new rider- about a week ago (on Mother's Day) I was leaving from a grocery store with flowers and a card. As I was leaving another biker came out of the store just before I pulled out. We ended up heading the same way, he was on some sort of larger cruiser. Even though I started out riding in the middle of the lane, he was pretty much tailgating me, so I moved to the right track, and he stayed just behind in the left. At first I thought, 'hey, that's kinda cool' but it got old quick. I've never been on a group ride before, but I felt very crowded. Then just as soon as another lane opened up (1 to 2 lanes) he floored it, weaved around cars, and was doing at least 50 in a 35.
Any European riders here?
I live in NYC and can understand the different riding personalities, but it seems like in Greece for me especially, the whole country is on a huge group ride lol.
I always get packs of people riding with me and vice versa in Greece.
Just remember, its a ride, its meant to be fun. Don't take things so seriously, if you are really offended by someone riding next to you on the highway, how do you drive your car to work everyday?
Couple of years ago a bunch of random riders formed a group. I know cos I was random rider #2. We caught a few, and a few caught us and a few more merged out of on ramps etc, till there was a 30 or so strong group all in the span of 20 miles. I peeled off and turned around and went home cos I was just testing the bike. Of course there was everything in this bunch harleys, sport bikes, goldies (gold wings), oldies (like my virago), UJM's and weekend warriors (a bike with so much slapped on luggage it reminds you of charlie chaplin in "the kid").
Cool.
Buddha.
Two weekends ago, I was out on a group ride up in the hills with four friends. I think we had up to a dozen people at one point. Some people joined up with us, we joined up with others, it was very casual. One guy on a Ducati stuck with us for at least 2 hours.
This past weekend, I was out riding on my own and kind of joined up with a couple of guys.
Like someone else said, be casual, don't crowd and if they don't want you tagging along, they will let you know.
At least that has been my experience.
shawn
Quote from: NickyNumbers on May 17, 2011, 03:22:55 AM
Safety in numbers!
no.
I hate riding in groups of more than 2-3. If someone were to attempt to tag along I'd slow down or speed up. Go away...I don't know you or your riding style.
Quoteif they don't want you tagging along, they will let you know.
+1
Its a public highway. I would ride appropriately.
If there were one or two bikes and they rode my style, I'd just go along and stay where I belong and mind my own business. Yes, staggered riding would be appropriate and the safe way to ride except on turns, twisties and other times a group would go single file.
HOWEVER..... if there are more, it could be an organized group. Tagging along could get dangerous. There is a technique in group riding called "wagging the tail". That's how they change lanes or do something else. The leader indicates a turn or lane change. The last person - the tail of the dog - will change lanes first and the others ripple over from back to front. This helps to insure no cars will try to merge into the middle of your group. The "tail" took control of the lane when the leader saw there was room for the group. Otherwise, if the lane change started at the front, other cars could speed up because they don't want bikes in front of them. There are other situations where the "tail" will move to control traffic and make it safe for the group.
You, tagging along and NOT being the tail and not part of the pre-ride discussion on the route and safety, would be creating a hazard for the group. If the group pulls off for gas or something, you might pull off and ask if you can join.
^^ some more sweet education :)
That info I did not know and appreciate it.
Def good to know if your a stranger and join up uninvited to the rear, then they motion to move and ur at the rear like uhhh duh! hahaha
Being too new, this is one situation I plan to avoid for awhile.
even if invited.
Just thinking of safety.
A couple weekends ago I rode to a motorcycle campout that a club in another state was having. Part way there I ended up meeting with some friends and rode the rest of the way there with them. About half way into the trip, our group of 5 bikes caught up with another group of 2 bikes. We followed them for a while, then one in our group jumped out of line and passed everyone, to pull up along side the leader (which was part of the group of 2). She was pointing at her tank motioning she needed to stop for gas. She had no idea that he was not part of our group! :o So the poor guy pulled off a the next town and led us to some gas, but he was pretty shocked that some stranger would pull up along side him and make him and make him take a gas break! :icon_lol:
Quote from: steezin_and_wheezin on May 17, 2011, 08:48:51 AM
everyone i've caught up to on my streets have been pleasant and more than willing to let you ride with.
a couple weeks ago i came up on a guy riding a SV in the back roads. he was cruising behind a minivan going pretty slow. saw check his mirrors a couple times as he start to spot me. i figured when the van turned off he'd be trying to rossi himself. sure enough, van turned off and twisted the throttle up. i've never ridden with another sport bike so i wanted to keep somewhat close to watch and learn. the first couple turns he put some serious space in between us. i'd almost given up since i didn't want to be putting myself in a sketchy spot. after he broke the line of sight i thought, "oh well, don't need to be riding with him anyways" but then whattaya know? next turn there he was slowed back and waiting on me! he started a bit slower into the turns this time, watching me to see how hard i was pushing. we rode for a good 20 minutes til my turn came up. i flicked my lights up to him, he gave a wave and went off in the distance. it was one of my best rides, got a little kick of confidence in the turns, and got to watch a fellow rider handle a suzuki in the squiggles
definitely just be respectful. they will let you know if they want you there or not.
OP was about crashing a "group" ride, not just a single rider.........A group is a group because they want to be together....impolite to join if not invited....
I ride alone because I want to ride alone....please either pass, or stay back..thank you ! (I already have friends, don't need any more)
Just my opinion.....
Hey just for shits and giggles...join up with every group you see...I bet you get 50 - 50... 1)they don't want you there . ...or 2) just put up with you ....maybe get your ass kicked one out of 50.....
Cookie
Quote from: Tombstones81 on May 17, 2011, 06:04:37 PM
^^ some more sweet education :)
That info I did not know and appreciate it.
Def good to know if your a stranger and join up uninvited to the rear, then they motion to move and ur at the rear like uhhh duh! hahaha
Being too new, this is one situation I plan to avoid for awhile.
even if invited.
Just thinking of safety.
I do suggest you do some group rides with a reputable group. The Suzuki Owners Club has chapters around the country. There are other groups.
That's where I learned group riding. The leader is the experienced rider that knows the route. The tail is also a very experienced rider - kinds of second in command.
Behind the leader - believe it or not - you start with the least experienced riders. Then you increase experience as you go back in the group.
Why you ask? So the experienced people can help the less experienced ones. In my rides, they would give me tips and suggestions when we stopped for a break or gas. Also the newbies are most likely to have problems. This way they can be watched and an experienced rider will pull over with the other rider if necessary or there are problems of some type. The newbies will never be left behind all by themselves.
Group riding really can be a blast. I'd never ride 90 miles into the mountains on my own. With a group - I have all the confidence necessary and people to help me out if I have a problem.
Quote from: twocool on May 17, 2011, 07:51:44 PM
Quote from: steezin_and_wheezin on May 17, 2011, 08:48:51 AM
everyone i've caught up to on my streets have been pleasant and more than willing to let you ride with.
a couple weeks ago i came up on a guy riding a SV in the back roads. he was cruising behind a minivan going pretty slow. saw check his mirrors a couple times as he start to spot me. i figured when the van turned off he'd be trying to rossi himself. sure enough, van turned off and twisted the throttle up. i've never ridden with another sport bike so i wanted to keep somewhat close to watch and learn. the first couple turns he put some serious space in between us. i'd almost given up since i didn't want to be putting myself in a sketchy spot. after he broke the line of sight i thought, "oh well, don't need to be riding with him anyways" but then whattaya know? next turn there he was slowed back and waiting on me! he started a bit slower into the turns this time, watching me to see how hard i was pushing. we rode for a good 20 minutes til my turn came up. i flicked my lights up to him, he gave a wave and went off in the distance. it was one of my best rides, got a little kick of confidence in the turns, and got to watch a fellow rider handle a suzuki in the squiggles
definitely just be respectful. they will let you know if they want you there or not.
OP was about crashing a "group" ride, not just a single rider.........A group is a group because they want to be together....impolite to join if not invited....
I ride alone because I want to ride alone....please either pass, or stay back..thank you ! (I already have friends, don't need any more)
Just my opinion.....
Hey just for shaZam!s and giggles...join up with every group you see...I bet you get 50 - 50... 1)they don't want you there . ...or 2) just put up with you ....maybe get your ass kicked one out of 50.....
Cookie
Pretty sure he said "a pair of riders"
You must ride in some pretty rough areas with some not so nice people there Cookie. Most clubs I know here would be glad you tagged along with them as they are social outings and the more the merrier in most cases. In saying that if I tag on to a group of riders I don't usually stop and have lunch or a beer with them. If we are heading in the same general direction I can see no problems just shooting the breeze till one of us has to peel off.
Who is honestly gonna take the time to kick your ass for riding behind them? That sounds insane, unless you're instigating. Your not supposed to be afraid of other bikers. I mean obviously don't try to act tough around 1%ers.
Quote from: Grommett2k on May 17, 2011, 08:14:49 AM
IMO it depends on the siuation. Commute time on the way to work/home, the HOV lane has a lot of bikes in it so unavoidable to run into another bike. On a weekend and I come up on what is clearly a group ride, different situation. In either case I would not run up and get right on them. But I am not going to intentionally hang back an abnormal distance, and will only pass when my ride dictates it. I view them as another vehicle on the road. Ride your ride, and all should go well.
+1 Grommett really nailed it. If I'm riding and I find a group going in the same direction I'm heading I'm not going to hang back and ride any slower than I want to because of them. If I have a chance I'll pass them, but if traffic doesn't allow it they're gonna have to put up with me.
Quote from: Twisted on May 18, 2011, 01:24:55 AM
Quote from: twocool on May 17, 2011, 07:51:44 PM
Quote from: steezin_and_wheezin on May 17, 2011, 08:48:51 AM
everyone i've caught up to on my streets have been pleasant and more than willing to let you ride with.
a couple weeks ago i came up on a guy riding a SV in the back roads. he was cruising behind a minivan going pretty slow. saw check his mirrors a couple times as he start to spot me. i figured when the van turned off he'd be trying to rossi himself. sure enough, van turned off and twisted the throttle up. i've never ridden with another sport bike so i wanted to keep somewhat close to watch and learn. the first couple turns he put some serious space in between us. i'd almost given up since i didn't want to be putting myself in a sketchy spot. after he broke the line of sight i thought, "oh well, don't need to be riding with him anyways" but then whattaya know? next turn there he was slowed back and waiting on me! he started a bit slower into the turns this time, watching me to see how hard i was pushing. we rode for a good 20 minutes til my turn came up. i flicked my lights up to him, he gave a wave and went off in the distance. it was one of my best rides, got a little kick of confidence in the turns, and got to watch a fellow rider handle a suzuki in the squiggles
definitely just be respectful. they will let you know if they want you there or not.
OP was about crashing a "group" ride, not just a single rider.........A group is a group because they want to be together....impolite to join if not invited....
I ride alone because I want to ride alone....please either pass, or stay back..thank you ! (I already have friends, don't need any more)
Just my opinion.....
Hey just for shaZam!s and giggles...join up with every group you see...I bet you get 50 - 50... 1)they don't want you there . ...or 2) just put up with you ....maybe get your ass kicked one out of 50.....
Cookie
Pretty sure he said "a pair of riders"
You must ride in some pretty rough areas with some not so nice people there Cookie. Most clubs I know here would be glad you tagged along with them as they are social outings and the more the merrier in most cases. In saying that if I tag on to a group of riders I don't usually stop and have lunch or a beer with them. If we are heading in the same general direction I can see no problems just shooting the breeze till one of us has to peel off.
People around here are nice and have manors and etiquette..... that is why we don't barge in, uninvited, on groups of riders! :thumb:
Cookie
Barge in uninvited = tack onto the back of a ride?
Nice choice of words. You work for a newspaper or something?
Michael
Quote from: mister on May 18, 2011, 11:51:41 AM
Barge in uninvited = tack onto the back of a ride?
Nice choice of words. You work for a newspaper or something?
Michael
He's on staff at Fox. How'd you know?
Whenever you see me, alone or in a group, feel free to keep a lane guarded. Cars are the enemy. Not bikes.
I wouldn't ride up on some memorial parade and start buzzing up thru the middle.
Quote from: mister on May 18, 2011, 11:51:41 AM
Barge in uninvited = tack onto the back of a ride?
Nice choice of words. You work for a newspaper or something?
Michael
One poster is afraid to pass Harley's because they might beat him up, another thinks riding along with another group means you are crashing their wedding or something as well as incidents where people fight because they joined a group ride.
This is just asinine, I'm sorry. If someone thinks that people are going to resort to violence and get crazy because you tagged along on the highway, there is something wrong with their outlook because that stuff just doesn't happen.
Cookie, where do you live, Darfur? What war torn country are you from that people act like this?
Don't mean to be a duck, but maybe they just don't want YOU there. Food for thought.
Quote from: KnuckleBallz on May 18, 2011, 07:23:30 AM
Who is honestly gonna take the time to kick your ass for riding behind them? That sounds insane, unless you're instigating. Your not supposed to be afraid of other bikers. I mean obviously don't try to act tough around 1%ers.
If you are real (as in a criminal), you put in work. Putting in work doesn't mean beating up civilians.
Anyone that lives that lifestyle have better things to do than teach punks on the highway a lesson about following them.
I work in an industrial neighborhood in Brooklyn. You want it, we got it here. Bikers, gangs, stick up kids, you name it. Its all here.
9/10 if something happens to you, you owe them money or did something dumb. I've never heard of anyone get stomped on because "they leaned on his car" or "he was following the group on the highway". Some of you need to stop watching movies lol.
So yea, I agree with you completely.
Quote from: NickyNumbers on May 18, 2011, 12:34:13 PM
If you are real (as in a criminal), you put in work. Putting in work doesn't mean beating up civilians.
Anyone that lives that lifestyle have better things to do than teach punks on the highway a lesson about following them.
I work in an industrial neighborhood in Brooklyn. You want it, we got it here. Bikers, gangs, stick up kids, you name it. Its all here.
9/10 if something happens to you, you owe them money or did something dumb. I've never heard of anyone get stomped on because "they leaned on his car" or "he was following the group on the highway". Some of you need to stop watching movies lol.
So yea, I agree with you completely.
I'm going to have to disagree. Yes, this is how it is on the east coast; The west coast, not so much. Hells Angels members will ignore you unless you do something dumb, as they could care less; but other non-bike gangs on the west coast (Nortenos, Sureneos, Mexican Mafia) , make their money by robbing, killing, selling drugs, home invasions... I grew up out there and a good friend of mine's father was a Hell's Angels chapter president, now quite a few of my friends from highschool are patched in members, but they dont bother other guys on bikes unless your either wearing patches of rivals or being a jackass.
Quotebut other non-bike gangs on the west coast (Nortenos, Sureneos, Mexican Mafia) , make their money by robbing, killing, selling drugs, home invasions...
"Other non-bike gangs" pretty much means Cookie will be alright out there on the big scary highway by herself.
Maybe saw Mad Max one too many times as a kid?
Yeah. Its not the bikes that you should be worried about on the freeway. Its the cars and SUVs that dont care about you.
Funny....everybody focused in on the "getting your ass kicked" part of my reply and overlooked the "etiquette" and "presumptious" part.
Of course, you're not going to "really" get you ass kicked if you "tag along".
But still bad etiquette, IMHO.
But what would be the point of "tagging along" anyway?
Cookie
Quote from: twocool on May 18, 2011, 07:09:10 PM
Funny....everybody focused in on the "getting your ass kicked" part of my reply and overlooked the "etiquette" and "presumptious" part.
Of course, you're not going to "really" get you ass kicked if you "tag along".
But still bad etiquette, IMHO.
But what would be the point of "tagging along" anyway?
Cookie
True I get where you are coming form as regards the etiquette side of things.
But what would be the point of "tagging along" anyway?
I am one that likes to ride alone too but if I am on the freeway it gets a little boring riding so if I see another rider I will ride with them to make it a bit more interesting and for the reason two or more bikes are more visible than just one. That is my reason.
Quote from: Twisted on May 19, 2011, 02:42:52 AM
Quote from: twocool on May 18, 2011, 07:09:10 PM
Funny....everybody focused in on the "getting your ass kicked" part of my reply and overlooked the "etiquette" and "presumptious" part.
Of course, you're not going to "really" get you ass kicked if you "tag along".
But still bad etiquette, IMHO.
But what would be the point of "tagging along" anyway?
Cookie
True I get where you are coming form as regards the etiquette side of things.
But what would be the point of "tagging along" anyway?
I am one that likes to ride alone too but if I am on the freeway it gets a little boring riding so if I see another rider I will ride with them to make it a bit more interesting and for the reason two or more bikes are more visible than just one. That is my reason.
Yes two are more visible than one...also when some driver fu's up, two bikes get taken out at the same time!
If you don't know that other rider he may actually F you up! So I give a normal following distance. If it is a good rider on a technical road...I stay back a bit and watch...maybe learn something!
But by "group" I think of some sort or organized group...like a club, or charity ride.....This is where the etiquitte comes in.......bad manors to join up if not invited...
Cookie
Don't like the phrase "tag along" then change it to Follow. Problem solved. All nice and friendly like :thumb:
As I said, experienced riders don't give a flying fig if you stick with them. They don't think it's bad form or whatever. What they think is, "wow, another rider to keep me company (for a bit until our routes change or they get fed up and pass me). This is how it is on the real world.
Michael
Quote from: mister on May 19, 2011, 04:10:42 AM
Don't like the phrase "tag along" then change it to Follow. Problem solved. All nice and friendly like :thumb:
As I said, experienced riders don't give a flying fig if you stick with them. They don't think it's bad form or whatever. What they think is, "wow, another rider to keep me company (for a bit until our routes change or they get fed up and pass me). This is how it is on the real world.
Michael
Well, you can certainty speak for yourself...but what you say in not true for everyone...
Quote from: twocool on May 19, 2011, 06:19:24 AM
Quote from: mister on May 19, 2011, 04:10:42 AM
Don't like the phrase "tag along" then change it to Follow. Problem solved. All nice and friendly like :thumb:
As I said, experienced riders don't give a flying fig if you stick with them. They don't think it's bad form or whatever. What they think is, "wow, another rider to keep me company (for a bit until our routes change or they get fed up and pass me). This is how it is on the real world.
Michael
Well, you can certainty speak for yourself...but what you say in not true for everyone...
You appear to be the only one in this thread with a problem. So, Your solution is, You don't do it. Fair enough?
Michael
twocool is too cool to ride with you peons.
i think that most people enjoy when people "follow" them.. just a little story..
i was riding my 49cc scooter at around 12pm and i spotted two Ninja 250's in front of me, so i rode up behind them they nodded at me. i was following them for about 5minutes the "leader" sped up way ahead and the other one dropped back a bit in front of me, i was confused at this (it was probably my first week of riding anything) well about 10minutes later the "leader" comes into the lane next to mine looks at me.. on my baby blue 49cc scooter, Dainese mesh jacket, alpine star gloves, and my seven zero seven helmet, i just wonder what he thought.. anyways! he went ahead kicked out his foot (i had no clue what it meant) he turned his signals on changed into a left turn lane the guy behind him did the same.. i was confused they turned i rode on.. that was my first "Tag along/Follow".
i personally think they didn't mind.
they turned onto the freeway.. so it's not like i could've followed anyways ha ha.
Quote from: ScootRider on May 19, 2011, 12:19:58 PM
he went ahead kicked out his foot (i had no clue what it meant) he turned his signals on changed into a left turn lane the guy behind him did the same.. i was confused they turned i rode on.. that
what does that mean? that they're turning?
Often kicking out the left or right foot is to alert the following riders of a road hazard: bad pot hole, road kill, anything else you don't want to ride over. Reading your whole post, it may have meant something else, but not being there and seeing the gesture and which foot it was, it is hard to tell.
Tap on top of head, sometimes followed by pointing, indicates cop ahead. Pay attention if someone coming the opposite direction gives you that signal.
Yesterday 3 of us West Seattle GS500'ers went to the monthly Backfire Moto gathering. Enjoyed the ride. On the way back we got a little separated at a stop sign turning right. There was a bike coming and I had to wait. The extra rider that mixed in with us at that one corner followed all proper etiquette, including staggered riding and 2-up at a stop. He knew we were a group and at the light for the left turn, I was to his right and he nodded for me to go first to stay with my group (proper etiquette is the left rider takes off first) . I guess that's an example of what that one thread is all about.
On the rides i go on, kicking your foot out is a sign that the person wants you to overtake them on that side. Sometimes people think you want to ride a bit faster than them and are allowing you to pass in their lane.
Had a fun ride where I tagged along, after an Australia Day slow. I was at the back, bit of distance and keeping staggered. At the lights the rear bike directed me to come up next to them. Once I was he rolled his bike up to touch his mated rear tyre and did a burnout. Kept riding with them until they turned off.
Yea, it could mean to pass. We didn't really get a description of the gesture or which leg.
We don't know if it was a leg point (I'm pointing to something in the road) or a swinging motion (pass me?) or a shaking motion (a bee just flew up my pants)
Quote from: mister on May 19, 2011, 04:10:42 AM
Don't like the phrase "tag along" then change it to Follow. Problem solved. All nice and friendly like :thumb:
As I said, experienced riders don't give a flying fig if you stick with them. They don't think it's bad form or whatever. What they think is, "wow, another rider to keep me company (for a bit until our routes change or they get fed up and pass me). This is how it is on the real world.
Michael
Most experienced riders avoid riding with people they don't know. I'm one of those experienced riders. If you are behind me, you might run up on me, miss a braking zone, take me out. If you are in front of me, you might slam on your brakes unexpectedly, or make a dumb move in general. If you are talking about highway droning...which is probably the most boring and torturous riding that there is...someone "joining" out of nowhere is plain creepy.
On the backroads where things get twisty, I ride with just a couple people that I know, who are very predictable. I could care less about people "keeping me company." It's not like I need others to ride with, to make a ride enjoyable.
Quote from: philgs500F on May 19, 2011, 05:10:50 PM
Quote from: mister on May 19, 2011, 04:10:42 AM
Don't like the phrase "tag along" then change it to Follow. Problem solved. All nice and friendly like :thumb:
As I said, experienced riders don't give a flying fig if you stick with them. They don't think it's bad form or whatever. What they think is, "wow, another rider to keep me company (for a bit until our routes change or they get fed up and pass me). This is how it is on the real world.
Michael
Most experienced riders avoid riding with people they don't know. I'm one of those experienced riders. If you are behind me, you might run up on me, miss a braking zone, take me out. If you are in front of me, you might slam on your brakes unexpectedly, or make a dumb move in general. If you are talking about highway droning...which is probably the most boring and torturous riding that there is...someone "joining" out of nowhere is plain creepy.
On the backroads where things get twisty, I ride with just a couple people that I know, who are very predictable. I could care less about people "keeping me company." It's not like I need others to ride with, to make a ride enjoyable.
Well stated! (Gets my point across better than I did)
Original poster asked a logical question....and got various answers.....some valid points on boths sides of the fence. Some BS based on nothing..... Tough group to have a discussion with though!
OP used asked if it was "presumptuous"...and of course it is......because to join up uninvited you must presume the other rider is thinking the same as you....which is not always so......and then there is the etiquette thing....manors, respect...common sense......concepts which seem to elude some.....
Cookie
Quote from: philgs500F on May 19, 2011, 05:10:50 PM
Most experienced riders avoid riding with people they don't know. I'm one of those experienced riders. If you are behind me, you might run up on me, miss a braking zone, take me out. If you are in front of me, you might slam on your brakes unexpectedly, or make a dumb move in general. If you are talking about highway droning...which is probably the most boring and torturous riding that there is...someone "joining" out of nowhere is plain creepy.
On the backroads where things get twisty, I ride with just a couple people that I know, who are very predictable. I could care less about people "keeping me company." It's not like I need others to ride with, to make a ride enjoyable.
Actually, "most" experienced riders, based on the responses in this thread, don't agree with you.
There really is no sense keeping this discussion up. Phil, nobody wants to ride with a guy that doesn't use his rear brake anyway. Maybe you're lack of basics on the bike make it so people think your the squid.
Just for background here, Phil doesn't like to use his rear brake. Says its useless. This is the guy we are debating here people lol.
Quote from: NickyNumbers on May 20, 2011, 03:51:44 AM
Quote from: philgs500F on May 19, 2011, 05:10:50 PM
Most experienced riders avoid riding with people they don't know. I'm one of those experienced riders. If you are behind me, you might run up on me, miss a braking zone, take me out. If you are in front of me, you might slam on your brakes unexpectedly, or make a dumb move in general. If you are talking about highway droning...which is probably the most boring and torturous riding that there is...someone "joining" out of nowhere is plain creepy.
On the backroads where things get twisty, I ride with just a couple people that I know, who are very predictable. I could care less about people "keeping me company." It's not like I need others to ride with, to make a ride enjoyable.
Actually Phil makes his point..clear and concise......you do not.
Cookie
Actually, "most" experienced riders, based on the responses in this thread, don't agree with you.
There really is no sense keeping this discussion up. Phil, nobody wants to ride with a guy that doesn't use his rear brake anyway. Maybe you're lack of basics on the bike make it so people think your the squid.
Just for background here, Phil doesn't like to use his rear brake. Says its useless. This is the guy we are debating here people lol.
just fueling the fire, but oh well..
is it presumptuous to tag along with an organized ride with 2+ riders?
my thought: yes.
___________________________________
but the OP asked, "is it presumptuous to take along with a pair of riders?"
my thoughts: no, but i understand where phil is coming from.
No it's not presumptous, anymore than it would be to follow within safe distances if you were in a car, assuming traffic conditions/speed etc don't allow you to pass and carry on your own way.
If you come right up on their rear fender however, or invite yourself to their barbecue, that's an entirely different kettle of fish.
Quote from: pave_spectre on May 20, 2011, 07:05:50 AM
No it's not presumptous, anymore than it would be to follow within safe distances if you were in a car, assuming traffic conditions/speed etc don't allow you to pass and carry on your own way.
If you come right up on their rear fender however, or invite yourself to their barbecue, that's an entirely different kettle of fish.
What if I rock up with a six pack? :tongue2:
Quote from: Twisted on May 20, 2011, 07:16:21 AM
Quote from: pave_spectre on May 20, 2011, 07:05:50 AM
No it's not presumptous, anymore than it would be to follow within safe distances if you were in a car, assuming traffic conditions/speed etc don't allow you to pass and carry on your own way.
If you come right up on their rear fender however, or invite yourself to their barbecue, that's an entirely different kettle of fish.
What if I rock up with a six pack? :tongue2:
Make it a slab and you're more than welcome.
So long as it's not XXXX
I kind of agree with twocool...when I catch up with a group, I stay back...about a 3-5sec distance...I don't assume that I am welcome to join in...if I am riding alone and someone comes up on me, I don't mind if they "tag along" but it would be wierd if they pulled off at the coffee shop and sat with me for a coffee...might be okay, but it would be strange at first...
And as for the "wearing colours" issue...a group that I am just starting to ride with is all "leathers & patches"...I'm the only sport bike guy there in my JOE ROCKET gear...don't get me wrong, most of them give me a hard time about my "Ricky Rocket get up"...but I don't think they really care...(plus my V twin is bigger than most of theirs...hehehe...so they are jealous :icon_twisted: )...most of them wear all the patches & junk to fit into the group and to feel like they are part of the "gang"...I couldn't give a crap about that, I just like to ride...I'm not saying all "colours riders" are like that, but I would bet most are...also our group is in the "the more the merrier" camp of riding, but not all are... ;)
My advise to the OP is to just stay a little back of the pack, or pass when it is safe (and don't be all squiddy about it...don't scream past)...like twocool has stated (or someone did) a larger group is probably on a ride for charity and riders in the group have paid a fee to be in it...it would probably be poor etiquette to just join up on the ride...although the fee is usually a donation that gets you a lunch or something, but still...I would go online and search out a local riding group and join up, that way you are part of the group and not "crashing the party"... :thumb:
Later.
I think it's all situational, I wouldn't mind and I've had hasabusas wave for me to follow them at stop signs, you just have to feel out each situation independently, also I've even cruised with an outlaw on the freeway, when he pulled off he even waved at me.
Given how many other hand signals exist, I'm surprised there isn't a hand signal around that can be used to ask if you can join a group you encounter while riding.
Seems like you'd basically need one signal for the question and three for responses: 'no' and maybe two for 'yes', one indicating that the person should insert their self in front of the rider in the group's back door position and one indicating that they should advance and insert their self behind the leader.
Well, thanks for all your responses everyone. The situation I cited involved just two riders on straight, boring freeway, but I was curious what your thoughts would be for this kind of encounter in general. In fact, I saw both riders kick out their left legs once or twice and hold them there for a few seconds. Perhaps this was an invitation to pass but I'm used to the left hand over the shoulder movement. And I didn't see any potholes or obvious road hazards: I had concluded they were stretching their legs but wasn't sure. One of them did the same with their right leg as well at some point.
To clarify though, I tried to keep a bit more distance behind the second rider than he was keeping behind the leader. I didn't want to presume to be too familiar.
Quote from: kininja on May 20, 2011, 09:01:52 AM
To clarify though, I tried to keep a bit more distance behind the second rider than he was keeping behind the leader. I didn't want to presume to be too familiar.
That's probably how I would have done it as well...like nik said...
Quote from: nikfleisch on May 20, 2011, 08:45:02 AM
I think it's all situational...
If the guys totally ignore you, or speed up to put a little distance between you and them...let them have their ride...if they wave you in, you can form up...but otherwise, I just leave a normal space like I would a cager and continue on my ride...as long as you are enjoying the ride and they don't seem annoyed that you are there...do what feels right...
Later.
Quote from: NickyNumbers on May 20, 2011, 03:51:44 AM
Quote from: philgs500F on May 19, 2011, 05:10:50 PM
Most experienced riders avoid riding with people they don't know. I'm one of those experienced riders. If you are behind me, you might run up on me, miss a braking zone, take me out. If you are in front of me, you might slam on your brakes unexpectedly, or make a dumb move in general. If you are talking about highway droning...which is probably the most boring and torturous riding that there is...someone "joining" out of nowhere is plain creepy.
On the backroads where things get twisty, I ride with just a couple people that I know, who are very predictable. I could care less about people "keeping me company." It's not like I need others to ride with, to make a ride enjoyable.
Actually, "most" experienced riders, based on the responses in this thread, don't agree with you.
There really is no sense keeping this discussion up. Phil, nobody wants to ride with a guy that doesn't use his rear brake anyway. Maybe you're lack of basics on the bike make it so people think your the squid.
Just for background here, Phil doesn't like to use his rear brake. Says its useless. This is the guy we are debating here people lol.
Everyone has a different riding style. Some prefer race shift, others standard shift. Some stress counter steer, others swear by peg weighting. Some swivel around the tank, others hang off....
More than one way to skin a cat, or go fast on a motorcycle. Does it really matter how you do it? I personally don't use the rear brake, and I do think it's useless. Am I a professional racer? Nope. But I am experienced enough on the street and track, and fast enough in both locations...to know what works for me. You I wager to guess...are not.
I'm assuming people that ride with you ask themselves one of two questions.
1-is he towing a boat anchor?
2-when did he forfeit his man card?
What now the thread is being reduced to insults? :dunno_black:
Gotta love the internet :icon_neutral:
Just be helpful. shaZam!. How hard is it to figure out. Even if I were to ride with a friend (if I had one), I wouldn't ride side-by-side so we could hold hands. Cover a lane. Take turns blasting (take the risk of the ticket). If you don't like riding with me, outrun me; slow down, or wave goodbye.
Quote from: Twisted on May 20, 2011, 06:14:25 PM
What now the thread is being reduced to insults? :dunno_black:
Gotta love the internet :icon_neutral:
Yessum. Everything on the internet is real.
Take me for instance. I am a semi professional motorcycle rider who does track days every 2nd weekend. I'm so good I don't use any brakes at all and stop the bike by dragging my big toe on the pavement. (I choose to use no brakes after seeing a "front brake only" riding buddy bite it several times all cause of front brake use alone - so I figure no brakes has to be better.)
But on other forums I am a 16 year old nubile hot female with epic boobies. See my profile pics...
(http://maxcdn.fooyoh.com/files/attach/images/591/543/632/003/facebook-fake-pic.jpg)
(http://freeonlinedatinghowto.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Epic-big-boobs-pink-tanktop.jpg)
In other forums I have a six pack to die for, can bench press 200 pounds 35 times and can run a mile under three minutes.
But in reality...
(http://hypervocal.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/fat-internet-man.jpg)
Michael
It's perfectly ok to go into formation behind a series of motorcycles. Just be curtious and respectful, like you normally are. ;) We are all sisters & brothers on two wheels. :cheers:
I ride in California, San Francisco Bay Area. Out here it's not presumptuous or ill-mannered; if a given group doesn't want joiners they either outrun them or wave them by, no harm, no foul.
And especially on the freeways, most riders recognize safety in numbers and welcome others.
After all this, besides the laughter from the insults I've learnt the following.
Australia is friendly to other riders even if they don't know them.
Oh and someone doesn't understand brake balance hence a front and back brake on bikes and cars and trucks and bicycles. Planes don't as a rule but then they do have reverse thrust to use. Not sure about trains.
I never use reverse thrust in my plane.
I can understand not using reverse thrust in your plane. It shows great skill, or that you don't have it to use.
I never used reverse thrust on the Cessnas I've flown. Did use the brakes though, both left and right brakes - cool :thumb:
Michael