Hand Signals

Hand Signals

Scottsdale, Arizona
Harley Owners Group Chapter 97

Group Riding Hand Signals

During group rides, the following hand signals may be used by the Road Captain, or riders within the group, to signal hazards, speed changes, formation changes, etc.. If a signal is given, EVERY rider in formation should attempt to pass the signal on, as long as it is safe to do so, to be sure that the entire group is made aware of the situation. Passengers may assist with this as well, signaling clearly so that riders to the rear can see the signal. All hand signals should be given in a clear, definite manner. Giving a signal that is unclear can cause confusion, and could possibly make a situation even more hazardous. Remember, to "Ride and Have Fun", we must also ride safely.

The Road Captain may give the signal to *START ENGINES* and prepare for immediate departure. This signal is given by holding the right arm up at a 90 degree angle, with the index finger pointing upward and waving in a circular motion. At this point, remembering that you haven't gassed up yet won't help you much.
	To signal a *HAZARD TO YOU LEFT*, point your left arm at an angle downward toward the left, pointing with your index finger. This is especially important in the case of large potholes, road kill, and any debris that could either interfere with riders behind you, or could be kicked up from the road surface.
To signal a *HAZARD TO YOUR RIGHT*, there are two options. 1) Point at a downward angle with your right foot, being careful to avoid hitting the hazard with your own foot. 2) With your left hand, make a pointing motion over your head, toward the right side of the road. This option is especially useful to signal hazards on the right shoulder, such as pedestrians, bicyclists, or parked/slow moving vehicles.	or
	To signal an upcoming *LEFT TURN*, in addition to using your signal lights, hold your left arm at a straight angle, fully extended outward to your left. Be sure to make this signal crisply, with a straight arm, to prevent riders behind you from mistakenly thinking you are just pointing out a particular object or signaling a hazard to the left.
To signal an upcoming *RIGHT TURN*, in addition to using your signal lights, hold your left arm in a clear "L" shape, with your hand pointing straight upward. Be sure to hold your arm at a straight 90 degree angle to prevent riders behind you thinking you are signaling a hazard on the right.
	To signal a *DECREASE IN SPEED*, hold left arm at a downward angle, palm down, waving the hand up and down in a fanning motion.
To signal an *INCREASE IN SPEED*, hold the left arm at a 90 degree angle/ "L" shape, with the index finger pointing upward, and move the arm in an up and down motion
	To signal a *STOP*, in addition to your brake light, hold your left arm at a downward angle, palm facing the rear, with an open hand.
To leave staggered formation and *BEGIN SINGLE-FILE FORMATION*, hold left arm up, hand over head, with index finger pointing straight up. This signal will be given in case of narrow roadways, hazardous traffic conditions, or other situations at Road Captain's discretion.
	To *RESUME STAGGERED FORMATION*, hold left arm up, hand over head, with two fingers pointing straight up.
To signal the group to *TIGHTEN UP THE FORMATION*, hold left arm at 90 degree angle/"L" shape, with clenched fist, and move arm in an up and down motion