Riding With a New-to-You Group
Many thanks to Lisa Brogdon, Women in the Wind International Safety Officer, for permitting us to reprint this article from the July/August 2021 edition of Women in the Wind’s newsletter Shootin’ The Breeze.
It’s summer!
There are not only a lot of WITW events going on, but there’s also a lot of non-WITW events, campouts, rides and adventures galore! Some things to consider when you head out on that epic adventure to ride with a group that you are not familiar with:
Open Communication – It’s OK if you’re not comfortable riding with a big group to say you’ll meet them at the destination and still be a part of the event.
Self-Assessment of Riding Skills – You should have SOME experience riding with a group, understand the BASIC group norms and feel FAIRLY confident in your riding skills before you venture out on a new adventure joining a “new to you” pack of riders at an event.
Skill Level – How skilled do I need to be to ride in a new large group? The ability to “put your bike where you want it “consistently, pos-sessing great mental riding strategies with smooth on-bike decision-making skills, and feeling confident in your evasive maneuvers should all be present.
Back Off a Bit – Do be aware that not ALL new group riders will have done their own skill-level self-assessment. Don’t tail too close to folks you’ve never ridden with until YOU assess their abilities. It’s also wise to think about how others may react to an obstacle. Give yourself room to maneuver (brake or swerve) just in case. Always have an escape route in mind.
The ability to react quickly, smoothly and without panic is a critical skill to riding in groups, but even more so in groups you’ve never ridden with before. Riding in a large group is inherently riskier than riding solo or in a small group. It can be difficult to see the road ahead and react well in advance. So, if you’re choosing to ride in a larger group, stay super alert & be ready for anything.
Adjust Your Expectations – No, you’re not going to arrive as quickly and there will likely be hiccups along the way. Longer gas stops and bike issues are all a factor. Riding as a group takes patience and keeping a clear intent on the fun aspect.
Keep a Calm Head – We’re all out here just doing our best & we’re all in different places in our riding journey. Group rides aren’t about setting speed records, they’re about camaraderie with your sisters, making adventures to remember a lifetime and being seen as a positive female riding group in a huge variety of events. This may be your chance to mentor & pay it forward to the community of women motorcyclists.
Have FUN!
One of the truest statements that so often comes out of our mouths is “I have great friends I never would’ve met if it weren’t for motorcycling!” When you venture outside your own club or group, you are bound to meet other amazing women looking for adventurous fun just like you!
Keep your priorities straight, SAFETY FIRST – but keep an open mind, a kind heart, always keep learning and HAVE FUN!