06-22-2015, 05:05 PM
There is no rule in group riding that says you can't pass another bike. When you are asked not to pass other bikes, it simply means not in the same lane. Staggered riding formation affords every rider more space in case of an emergency stop, or avoiding an object. Passing another rider within his/her own lane who doesn't expect you to do so, will restrict his/her ability to move within his/her own lane. Bikes need to be able to use the entire width of the lane at all time. Passing another rider within his/her lane, either on the right or the left is plain dangerous. The proper way to pass another rider is the same as when passing a car, by using either another lane, or use the on coming traffic lane. This way the rider you are passing can clearly see you passing him/her, and you're not catching him/her off guard by snicking up on him/her. Also the group will see you passing, and will be able to adjust/slow down to let you back in, and everyone may have to readjust the staggered formation. The only time you may be side by side in the same lane, is when the group is coming to a stop at either a stop light or a stop, so the group doesn't take as much space on the road. Riding side by side is illegal in many states. I have one friend who thinks that creeping up on others within their lane is ok when he wants to talk to them. No one ever wants to ride with him, because he is unpredictable.
Also there should always be a road captain at the front, and a sweeper at the back of the group. That is not so much for pace, as it is to make sure no one is left alone in case of a mechanical/medical problem, or a fall.
I love group riding. The rules are clear, simple, and not all that hard to follow. A good road captain will anticipate traffic, will look out for the group, and will make careful moves, making lane changes only after making sure that there is enough space for the whole group to move over safely, just as an 18 wheeler truck driver would to move his long rig over to another lane. However and ultimately any rider is responsible for his/her own safety, and should never follow blindly the group without making sure that the move is safe for him or herself.
Also there should always be a road captain at the front, and a sweeper at the back of the group. That is not so much for pace, as it is to make sure no one is left alone in case of a mechanical/medical problem, or a fall.
I love group riding. The rules are clear, simple, and not all that hard to follow. A good road captain will anticipate traffic, will look out for the group, and will make careful moves, making lane changes only after making sure that there is enough space for the whole group to move over safely, just as an 18 wheeler truck driver would to move his long rig over to another lane. However and ultimately any rider is responsible for his/her own safety, and should never follow blindly the group without making sure that the move is safe for him or herself.