Comprehensive Ride Guidelines

Group riding guidelines and etiquette

Tips for a safe and fun ride with the Ulysses Club and the Mornington Wanderers
Riding in a group is fun, but it needs awareness and respect for others. We don’t have strict rules, but we follow some guidelines and etiquette that work well. Whether you are new or experienced, we hope you find these tips sensible and useful.

Your safety is very important. We recommend wearing proper protective clothing, gloves and footwear on the rides. This is for your comfort and protection. No one wants to crash, but sometimes it happens and, without safety gear, you will get hurt.

Another thing to remember is the riding signals. These are hand and foot gestures that help us communicate on the road, such as turns, hazards, stops or formation changes. Please learn the riding signals before joining a branch ride. You can view or download the PDF from this link: Safe riding in a group

We hope you have fun riding with us and see you on the road!

Ride Leader
A Ride Leader is the person who leads the branch ride. You should not pass them unless they tell you to or they give you a signal to do so.

A Ride Leader knows the route, the road conditions, and the skill level needed for the ride. They plan the ride carefully and choose the best roads for the group. If you have any questions or concerns, ask them before the ride starts or during the breaks.

A Ride Leader communicates with Tail End Charlie (TEC) to make sure everyone is ready and safe. They use hand signals to indicate when to wait or go. They also monitor the pace and the gaps between the riders.

Tail End Charlie (TEC)
A TEC is the person who stays at the back of the branch ride. They make sure no one gets lost or left behind. They also help other riders if they have any problems, such as a breakdown or an accident.

A TEC is always the last rider in the group. They keep an eye on the riders ahead of them and follow the Ride Leader’s signals. They also inform the Ride Leader if there are any issues or delays in the group.

Ride sheet
A ride sheet is a list of riders with their name, bike rego, phone number and emergency contact. It helps us keep track of who is on the ride and who to call if something happens. Please fill out a ride sheet and give it to the TEC before you start. The Ride Leader may also take a photo of it for reference in case the TEC is not around.

Corner marking
A corner marker is the rider behind the Ride Leader. They stop at the corner where the Ride Leader points and show the way to the other riders. They stay there until the TEC comes. This way, no one gets lost or misses a turn. Please read the Do’s and Don’ts of Corner Markers below for more tips.

Corner marking basics:
It’s crucial for the second rider to mark turns as directed by the Ride Leader. If you prefer not to mark, avoid riding directly behind the leader. Corner marking creates a ‘leap-frog’ effect.

• Do:
  • Stay alert and maintain a safe distance from the Ride Leader.
  • Stop where indicated, off-road, and ensure visibility to others.
  • Steady your bike and stay seated upon stopping.
  • Fully extend your arm in the turn direction indicated by the Ride Leader.
  • Use your indicator to match the Ride Leader’s direction.
  • Remain vigilant for approaching riders and signal clearly.
  • Watch for Tail End Charlie’s cue to resume riding.
  • Report any issues to Tail End Charlie.
• Don’t:
  • Follow the Ride Leader too closely; keep a 100-200 metre gap.
  • Brake suddenly or leave your bike unattended.
  • Use unclear arm signals or hazard flashers.
  • Get distracted by electronics while waiting.
  • Remove your helmet or gloves until Tail End Charlie arrives.

Some more tips for a safe and enjoyable ride

• Fuel up before the ride starts. Bring enough cash for another refill if needed.
• Charge your phone and take it with you. It can be handy in case of an emergency or a breakdown.
• If you want to invite more than two or three guests, ask the Ride Leader first. They have the final say on who can join the ride.
• If you want to invite someone from a 1% or patched club, you need to get permission from both the branch President and the Ride Leader. Also, you need to tell your guest not to wear any club colours or vests on our ride. We don’t usually welcome such invitations.
• Your bike and licence must be valid and legal to join the ride. If your bike is not registered or roadworthy, or if you don’t have a current rider’s license, you may be asked to leave. Don’t ride if you are impaired by drugs, alcohol, or fatigue, as this could endanger yourself and others. If you have a medical condition that could affect your safety or ability to ride, think twice before joining.
• Be ready to go at the designated departure time. That’s when we ride off, not when you arrive at the departure point. You should try to arrive at least 15 minutes early to allow for topping up your fuel or unexpected delays. This will also give you a chance to meet the other riders and get briefed on the route and the rules.
• Follow the Ride Leader at all times. They are in charge of the group and know the route and the pace. Don’t overtake them or try to change the direction of the ride.
• Stay in front of Tail End Charlie, who rides at the rear of the group to provide a level of safety and support for the other riders. Keep an eye on them in your mirrors. If they stop or fall behind, do the same. This will help the group stay together and avoid getting lost or separated.
• Ride in a staggered formation when possible, not side by side or directly behind another rider. Staggered formation provides slightly more room in the event you need to stop in a hurry. It also allows you to see the road ahead and the riders behind you better. Leave enough space to brake safely and avoid hitting the rider in front of you. Adjust your position according to the road conditions and the visibility of other riders. Staggered formation is not always possible, especially on twisty or narrow back roads. In some cases, single file at a safe distance is the best option. In any case, try not to ride in the blind spot of the rider in front of you.
• Keep enough distance from the rider in front. Two seconds is a good gap. Add more time in bad weather or low visibility. Don’t tailgate.
• Signal and check before changing your position. Don’t pass on the left.
• When passing slower vehicles, keep your speed up until you have enough space to re-enter the lane in front. This will help the following riders pass safely and avoid being stuck on the wrong side.
• Stay in the left lane on multi-lane roads, unless the Ride Leader chooses otherwise. Follow the traffic rules and don’t hoon.
• At stops or re-groups, be ready to go when the Ride Leader says so. Don’t wander off without telling Tail End Charlie. Refuel and refresh in the time given by the Ride Leader.
• In emergencies, signal your stop and exit the road swiftly and safely. The group may proceed without you, while Tail End Charlie assists.
• To leave the group mid-ride, notify the Ride Leader and Tail End Charlie beforehand. Depart as the last rider before Tail End Charlie when possible.
• Always prioritize thoughtfulness and safety for yourself and others.
• Have a safe and enjoyable ride.

We hope you enjoy your riding with the Mornington Wanderers.