Riding in groups/with others

[Bob]

So... what are your feelings about riding in groups?

Do you love it? Or hate it? Or somewhere in between?

Personally, I prefer to ride alone. I like to set my own agenda, set my own pace and not have to worry about what others are doing.

That said, I am happy to ride with my wife - she is a steady and predictable rider, so I can just tuck in and ride shotgun, knowing pretty much what she is up to.

[Chickadee]

I think group riding is a good idea if you trust the people you ride with (that they're going to be sensible and ride within the limits of everyone in a group).

Large groups with people posturing can be an accident waiting to happen, keeping groups small with riders that are compentant is what I enjoy most. Picking up bikes and people off the road isn't something anyone relishes.

[deanohit]

I do most of my riding alone (people don't seem to want to be seen next to my bike), but recently did the corro loop with a bunch of others on 250's and had a heap of fun. The group soon spread out, but we were never to far behind the front runners. So yea, I'm happy to do whatever.

[PirateJafa]

I'm happy to ride either by myself or in larger groups.

However I prefer to ride with just one or two good friends.

[DMNTD]

Ya need another option in the Poll.
"I prefer to ride with select others when riding in a group".
Generally I'd pick the option above but I'm pretty good at reading others' riding so don't mind the odd group ride with "strangers".

[Her_C4]

Ya need another option in the Poll.
"I prefer to ride with select others when riding in a group".
Generally I'd pick the option above but I'm pretty good at reading others' riding so don't mind the odd group ride with "strangers".

+1 :banana: :banana:

[sAsLEX]

+1 :banana:

Are you saying you like riding with Cajun as well?

[James Deuce]

Riding in a group is the most dangerous thing you can do on a motorcycle. Most newbie-only group rides have disastrous consequences for someone, even if it is merely dropping a bike at rest.

Social behaviour tends to override an individual's personal limits settings and people often don't realise that they have ritualised such simple things as putting gear on and checking over their shoulder before pulling out into traffic.

For some newbies the desire to keep up can result in these newly established rituals being dispensed with, often with nasty consequences. Thank heavens for side stand cut-out switches.

If the people you're riding with sneer at the idea of disciplined group riding with known rules and behaviours then don't ride with them.

[sAsLEX]

For some newbies the desire to keep up can result in these newly established rituals being dispensed with, often with nasty consequences.


And not all of us are perfect riding with mates either are we....



The reason I bring up the picture is because the third power pole off in the distance used to be a wooden one, and it used to have a hell of a lean on it. It used to be my braking marker in the olden days (yes I know, nearly as stupid as using the guy in the red jacket in the stands for a braking marker at a Central Districts club meeting on my VFR400) and it was quite important to heed the warning because the road ends in a "T" junction. 15 years ago I comfortably led to the finish line, err, "T" junction, turned the bike off and waited for AJ. It then occurred to me that as he wasn’t native to the area, he may not know about the "T" junction. He left the biggest freaking front wheel darkie I’ve ever seen. He also stopped alongside me at the "T" junction. At the velocity he was travelling I have no idea how he did that. I would have sailed through the big black and white sign with the reflective arrows pointing at 90 degrees to the current direction of travel, and ended up in pieces in the paddock on the other side. I also found out how reflexive the "punch the bastard who nearly killed me in the head" impulse is. Good thing I had a helmet on. After he calmed down we walked back around the corner, and he had stopped in about 70 metres, reacting to the dead end ahead as soon as it came into view. Oddly the near misses did nothing to calm us down. The second picture sticks in my mind because it was the first corner on which I got my knee down. I wasn’t trying to get my knee down either, but AJ was leading and there was no way he was getting to Martinborough last. That corner is bit technical. The road camber is flat on entry and goes negative part way through and is followed by an uphill left. There’s a wire netting fence about 20 feet tall right next to the road and nowhere to go if it goes wrong. Talk about testosterone fuelled heroics. I’m always surprised now by how short that corner feels, but that day it seemed to last for ever and ever as we heeled in at lightspeed and my knee and peg touched at the same time.

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=19187&highlight=RC30+crash

[James Deuce]

Heehee.

But in all seriousness that was a historical report and I really hate riding in groups. I'm not attempting to be a lecturing loser. The statistics on Group riding accidents on KB alone make for horrific and depressing reading and I think people need to put more effort into defining what makes them feel happy to ride with a group and to communicate that properly with the group they ride with. It really is worth hashing it out.

[Ghost_Bullet]

Before a couple of years ago, 99% of my riding was alone, and I did enjoy that, in the last couple of years around 60% has been with at least one other. I really dont mind either way now. It is great from time to time to hit the road alone with true freedom to enjoy the roads and suroundings.

[oldrider]

I have ridden on my own most of my life. :ride:

I do get (mildly) excited when I see or come across other bikes on the road or parked up.

I find I am interested in the bikes first and if the riders are friendly, that's a bonus!

I do not really feel comfortable riding in large groups but do enjoy it occasionally.

I really enjoy riding with another rider or a small group when the opportunity arises.

I really do enjoy the company of my own bike and love riding it whenever I can.

Even better is when my wife comes with me, riding on the fanny bracket. :yes: Cheers John.

[sAsLEX]

One thing with riding in groups is communication of a Memorandum of Understanding of kinds to those new to the group or everyone on larger rides.

Things like hand signals , expected behaviour, staying within your limits and riding your own ride as the pub/cafe at the end aint going anywhere fast.

The one thing the really gets on my nerve is people who push to the front whilst the group is cruising along straight stretches to get to the front whilst passing dangerously and the proceed to ride like absolute fools well outside there limits through the corners..... you learn these people and avoid them.

[007XX]

What DMNTD said... Except that I don't like the unknown quantity that strangers represent. You never know if they're going to be a loose cannon or something and become a liability.

[jrandom]

What DMNTD said.

If I'm out riding and other motorcyclists get silly on the road around me, I hang right off the back and let them have their fun without putting me at risk.

I do not enjoy being in a bunch of bikes that are not 'keeping station' and following smooth lines. Even on straight sections of road.

I see riding in a group as requiring more discipline and restraint than riding alone, not as an opportunity to cut loose and try to prove something.

[SVboy]

Good topic! As a relative newbie, I am very aware when riding in a group. They dont know me, my[lack of]skill level and I dont know theirs. BUT, I enjoy the camaradarie thing and the potential to learn from those who are better. Recently, I followed a young lady on a 250-and her lines, entry speed etc were smooth and showed a good reading of the corners. I learned heaps from that, something that would not have happened on my own. However, I take a lot from JIM2s comments-testosterone replacing sense in a group racing situation! I recall entering Geraldine[township ya grubs!] with the back wheel locked and coming round to meet the front at high speed, while trying to stay with a mate on an ST4 who had a world of experience on me! Lesson learned!
I want to ride in groups but am very aware of following distance, lane placement and riding to my ability level. I think the peer pressure thing, and just the buzz of being on a bike , in a group of like minded riders, does present a high potential for bad things.

[Unit]

I ride in groups on occasion, and often by myself, at night, in the middle of winter on long hauls. I treat everyone else on the road with suspicious caution.
Im safe and predictable in groups, and take my time to learn others rides before I engage too closely, and I figure if anyone else did something wrong around me they would have a lovely little chat to look forward to with DMNTD.
The one thing I hate the most is someone undertaking me, especially if I dont know them. I dont mind for a select few, but I could count them on one hand.
And all of what SVboy said. Its a good chance to learn from others if people ride with a mature head, no matter what there level

[discotex]

I like riding. :ride:

Riding alone is fun and way less hassle (no herding cats) but you miss out on the comradere. I also prefer to have someone there in case something happens.

For groups I prefer smaller groups as they are easier to manage. 5 or so seems to be about perfect. I'm not so worried about skill level (I just cruise on the straights if they're below me and learn in the corners if they're above me) but not keen on people who feel they have something to prove.

The bigger groups are a buzz just to see so many people into riding.

[MSTRS]

All types of riding have things to recommend etc. Personally, the biggest buzz I get is on a group ride with perhaps 5 or 6 others who display the same skill level/riding ethos that I do.

[terbang]

I like group riding for all of the already mentioned reasons. I just ride my own ride, sometimes fast, sometimes slow. The guy ahead of me owns the road and I try not to push them if they are riding slower but I also expect they should have the nouse to figure someone would like to overtake them as well. As DMNTD has already said, you get used to watching others ride and you soon pick up on the ones to be careful around. This may be because they are new and less experienced (thats normal in life) or perhaps ten feet tall and bullet proof. Either way, we all have to take some responsibility to keep the ride safe. Most things we do in life require a certain amount of learned skill that can be passed on. So here we are on this thread, as group riding is no different.

[Pancakes]

Ya need another option in the Poll.
"I prefer to ride with select others when riding in a group".
Generally I'd pick the option above but I'm pretty good at reading others' riding so don't mind the odd group ride with "strangers".

Me too, I hadn't been on rides with large groups until the ATNR and was suprised at how much I liked it. Different with a group who ride the same roads together lots. I have been on a few rides with people and ditched them along the way. I'll keep an open mind and love meeting other riders but if I'm having second thoughts I'm happy to say see ya.

[Trudes]

I prefer to ride with my other half and then meet up with a group of others for convo.

[Toaster]

Heehee.

But in all seriousness that was a historical report and I really hate riding in groups. I'm not attempting to be a lecturing loser. The statistics on Group riding accidents on KB alone make for horrific and depressing reading and I think people need to put more effort into defining what makes them feel happy to ride with a group and to communicate that properly with the group they ride with. It really is worth hashing it out.


You are certainly no lecturing loser at all! I think you made really good points in your earlier post about the dangers of group riding. Often inattention, inexperience, incorrect positioning in line etc etc cause incidents that should never had occurred.

Being able to trust the riders around you is not unlike close formation flying or motorsport.... trusting that the others around you have the skill to do the right thing is important. Basic rule for me is if there are newer riders in the group, then encourage them keep longer gaps between bikes and keep the group speed down to ensure people don't exceed their skill level and crash trying to keep up.

Your comments were well said Jim2

[Toaster]

Personally I really enjoy the social aspect of group riding, especially with people I trust to "ride to survive" and respect the others we share the roads with.

The Cruiser and Maha rides have been good examples of rides designed for social interaction and sensible riding for all skill levels.

[Kflasher]

Happy go lucky, I like to ride.

[_intense_]

self is all good, but if im riding with others, i prefer that its people i know, i know how they ride, and that we are on the same page so to speak.

[sunhuntin]

i limit my group rides to once a year. paired rides may happen more often, but it depends on circumstance, and they are generally not planned more than an hour in advance. i do prefer to ride solo...
paired rides i feel i either am holding them up or am getting left behind, both can lead to pushing my own limits. although, i am getting better at following at my own pace, and trusting whoever im with to stop at any turn offs i might miss. i prefer to follow than be followed.
group rides theres usually at least one show off who overtakes way too close or does it in a stupid place, or if something goes wrong, its tricky to stop without being rear ended.

[Pumba]

Your is a little limited. I enjoy riding in groups and I enjoy riding by myself depending on what mod I am in at the time.

[MotoGirl]

"I prefer to ride with select others when riding in a group"... so don't mind the odd group ride with "strangers".

I'm another person in this camp. Although, I do think you've got to ride with strangers occasionally, otherwise no one else could ever join your group. If someone's too fast or dangerous for my liking, I drop back (yeah, that's my excuse!) and let them go...

Plus, when I'm out and about on my own, I'm usually quite happy to ride with someone who I catch up to, or who catches up to me. Realistically, they can't be that dangerous unless I'm also riding like a hooligan!

[yungatart]

I like riding in small groups or pairs. If its a larger group it naturally spreads out, so that I end up in a small group at the back anyway.
Our HB rides are always safe (1 bin in 11 months and it was a "solo" accident). I trust these guys 100%...they are absolutely awesome to ride with. They display a huge level of care, concern and mentoring towards less experienced riders at all times.

[ManDownUnder]

All types of riding have things to recommend etc. Personally, the biggest buzz I get is on a group ride with perhaps 5 or 6 others who display the same skill level/riding ethos that I do.

+1 (well 10 chars actually...)
Wot he sed!

[yungatart]

+1 (well 10 chars actually...)
Wot he sed!

Yeah, but what does he know? Cos in actual fact, I ride in the same group as he does...and there is no way that I can ride as well as he does.
He's dreaming again!

[ManDownUnder]

Yeah, but what does he know? Cos in actual fact, I ride in the same group as he does...and there is no way that I can ride as well as he does.
He's dreaming again!

Cue spooky music...

... then.... he ... wrote what I was thinking...

*shudder*...

[HenryDorsetCase]

Bloody hell: I remember group rides in the wairarapa that ended up as out and out endurance races, or trips over to Akaroa that were worthy of the name GP:

No more. I like to go with one or up to four others, and any heroics I just leave them to it. I dont like big groups.

[Unit]

Personally I really enjoy the social aspect of group riding, especially with people I trust to "ride to survive" and respect the others we share the roads with.

The Cruiser and Maha rides have been good examples of rides designed for social interaction and sensible riding for all skill levels.
What he said re good examples and social aspect. :yes: The thing is motorcycling can be so mood dependant too, and some days we are better riders than others. I have days when I feel like Im holding people up, and cant stop looking in my mirrors long enough to enjoy riding the road ahead as it should be.
There are other days (not many) where others hold me up. Usually Im the last to arrive (unless Ive cheated), but Im happy and have enjoyed watching the guns wizz passed me. I will kick my leg out to indicate they should pass and I know they are there when we are nagivating the tight stuff. Unfortunately there have also been days when, at the gathering, Ive quietly thought to myself geees so and so could have an off today, and more unfortunately Ive been right on occasion. Funny how you can pick em before leaving the gathering point.

[Qkchk]

Do it every Thursday night, its called the ATNR.. :lol:

It doesnt bother me riding in a group as long as no-one does anything stupid or has to try and show the size (or lackof ) their gonads. If a problem arises they get the flick or a bunch of angry bikers give them a quiet talking to...

It can be a godsend on a long trip to have company..........:yawn:

[Mom]

show the size (or lackof ) their gonads.

I always thought that behaviour was down to penis size :dodge:

[Mom]

Ive quietly thought to myself geees so and so could have an off today, and more unfortunately Ive been right on occasion. Funny how you can pick em before leaving the gathering point.

Very wise words them ones!

Trust the people you are riding with. That trust goes to leaving the ones that want to/can ride faster to do their thing and know they wont compromise anyone elses ride. It also goes to the slower riders to ride their ride without feeling the need to try and keep up and ride outside of their personal comfort zone.

There has only been a couple of occassions where on a KB group ride I have felt a threat.......I put it down to some people having small penises, pity of it is I dont know who they are, I would never ride out with them again!

[beyond]

I enjoy riding full stop :)
Also bikes were made for corners and anyone can do 300kmh on the straights with enough horsies under their butt.

Several points and I'm being totally honest here.
I enjoy riding alone as I can ride harder without upsetting anyone and frequently do but I also enjoy the cameraderie of group rides. The bigger the group the more obvious dangers especially with people joining the group you have not ridden with before.

I mostly enjoy groups of around 5-6 people all at or near the same skill level with no one having to prove themselves to anyone else. There are a few I trust a lot and they all know that all of us can ride just fine and our lines are as close to perfect as they are going to get. Those are always the best rides, fast paced but real safe with no one out to prove anything.

I also enjoy big group rides except for the following issues:
1. Stone damage if you aren't in front. That's large chips on your tank, your helmet and a buggered visor and those sporties tear off great chunks of tarmac and hurl them at ya, espcially when they have sticky hoops. When a rock hits your knuckle at 200+ it kinda hurts.... a lot :(

2. If you are in a big group (40-70) bikes, then you have to be in front or starve for two hours at the next feeding hole. If for any reason you happen to be in the last quarter, the worms will have left a sizeable dent in your guts before they get fed.

3. I love speed but prefer to hover around 139.9999kmh just in case the batteries are flat in my HARD detector receiver and in case instant on is used and yours truly gets to walk home.
BUT... nothing annoys me more than people who are new to the rides thinking that old bastard on the GSX1400 is going to hold them up in the corners so they tear past at 260kmh+ to get in front and then you spend the next few corners trying hard not to sit on their rear seat with them.

I'm sure they aren't interested in getting a passenger but I come awfully close to almost stoppying the 1400 coming into some corners after someone bowls past and then holds you up for the next few k's.

I'm not saying I'm better than anyone else. I just love corners and the 1400 just happens to love them too and the tighter the better. It's deceptively quick through the tight stuff for a bike it's size and weight and I take full advantage of all those loverly attributes.

So, invariably on group rides, for the aforementioned reasons, I pick up the pace somewhat more than I would prefer simply to maintain black beauty in it's current pristine condition, to make sure the worms get fed on time before turning on my interior and to ensure I get to enjoy some of the tighter twisties.

I have no problem riding fast and don't ever feel I am riding out of my depth but I have seen others who do, getting all crossed up when they are in front trying to prove they can stay ahead when they are better letting you pass. The sight of arms and legs getting thrust out in all directions, smoke pouring off tyres as their lines go to pieces and they get all crossed up makes for an amusing ride but it can all end in serious disaster.

The same happens with those who try and keep up when they aren't experienced enough. You see them in your rear view vision mirror for a few seconds anyway and it's not a pretty sight.

The saucer sized eyeballs behind their visors says it all when you drop into your first hard corner.
However: lots can be learnt from following the lines of a faster more experienced rider...IF people don't end up outriding their own abilities.
The fact that often bins occur on KB rides, means that more often than not, abilities are being pushed past someones outer limits.

I am not referring to incidents that are no fault of the rider and many of these exist of course.

Sorry, a bit long winded here :(

[jtzzr]

Ya need another option in the Poll.
"I prefer to ride with select others when riding in a group".
Generally I'd pick the option above but I'm pretty good at reading others' riding so don't mind the odd group ride with "strangers".

Some wise words ,is that why every ride I see you on I get left behind ,but all joking aside , you have to have faith, trust call it what you will , but every person on the ride has everybody elses lives in their hands so I guess you have to be selective .

[idleidolidyll]

I like groups and I like riding alone.

The problem is not with groups per se, it's with the vast range of skills and abilities that groups can have. The chances of collision rise drastically when inexperienced riders are mixed with experienced ones.

My scariest ride was with a bunch of Ulysses members, a mix of experienced competant riders, newbies and those who had ridden 20 or 30 years ago and fooled themselves into thinking they were skilled.

Now if THAT doesn't get me flamed I'm buggered if I know what will! :2guns:

[beyond]

I like groups and I like riding alone.

The problem is not with groups per se, it's with the vast range of skills and abilities that groups can have. The chances of collision rise drastically when inexperienced riders are mixed with experienced ones.

My scariest ride was with a bunch of Ulysses members, a mix of experienced competant riders, newbies and those who had ridden 20 or 30 years ago and fooled themselves into thinking they were skilled.

Now if THAT doesn't get me flamed I'm buggered if I know what will! :2guns:

Now that would have been interesting :)

Quite right. The vast difference in skill levels can be a rather volatile cocktail.

[DMNTD]

Quite right. The vast difference in skill levels can be a rather volatile cocktail.

...unless the ride has been organised accordingly.
Quicker people off first...etc.
In saying that there's nothing better than like-skilled riders out for a fang! :devil2:

[beyond]

...unless the ride has been organised accordingly.
Quicker people off first...etc.
In saying that there's nothing better than like-skilled riders out for a fang! :devil2:

Yep, a good squirt with like minded riders makes for a very very satisfying day and gets the hands of the tyre merchants rubbing uncontrollably :)

[The Lone Rider]

Love groups, love on my own. Always time for both, always do both.

Fun! :D

[Lissa]

I personally like riding in smaller groups of two to five, and people that I know, and know my riding skill which isnt too hot. :whistle: In bigger groups I like to be at the back, so I dont hold anyone up, and no one has to pass me, which is my biggest worry.

[Matt_TG]

I don't really enjoy riding alone, and look for bikes to catch up to when riding, wave to everyone and generally love the kinship of riding. Much like DMTD I like riding with a group of people I know, my reason is that I don't want to be with those who will try to race the pants off each other. I get a bit intimidated then, (probably why I don't join the Tauranga rides ... I've seen the videos). My brother in law has a GN and we ride together a bit but it's just a bit hard going at times.

The BADD ride was supposed to be an organised orderly legal speed cruise, but once we hit the State Highway all hell broke loose. I was just over 110 km'h going up the Kaimais but was being passed as if I was standing still. Someone went by on their rear wheel. I felt out of my zone on the roads through to Okoroire, and as a result didn't enjoy it that much.

I guess I'm still a nana. :mellow:

[beyond]

I personally like riding in smaller groups of two to five, and people that I know, and know my riding skill which isnt too hot. :whistle: In bigger groups I like to be at the back, so I dont hold anyone up, and no one has to pass me, which is my biggest worry.

The main thing is that everyone should enjoy themselves and feel happy with where they are at. I always harp on to people about making sure they know their own bike and limits before pushing it and espcially so on group rides.

It's not the place to be checking your own perosnal limits such as sudden braking or evasive actions or going to hot into a corner etc.

You have the right attitude :)

[sunhuntin]

I like groups and I like riding alone.

My scariest ride was with a bunch of Ulysses members, a mix of experienced competant riders, newbies and those who had ridden 20 or 30 years ago and fooled themselves into thinking they were skilled.

Now if THAT doesn't get me flamed I'm buggered if I know what will! :2guns:


agreed, actually. ride before i last i went on was with the local triumph club [one of my rare sundays i arranged off, cos they were going to ohakea] had a ulysses member tag along. dunno what kind of bike, cruiser and wide with saddles added. that make it roughly twice as wide as the bike i was on... so long ago, i think i had the gn.
he overtook me, cut me off and then rode just left of the middle of the road. we get to ohakea, and then he bails me up accusing of following too close. was so fucked off i left and went to the sanson markets and then off for a solo ride to clear my head.

since then, ive avoided ulysses like the plague, and make a point of ignoring that guy. last time i saw him, he gave me shit about having a top box instead of bags on the virago... must be blind as well as stupid, cos the bag brackets are plain as day. wanker.

thats not the first time ive encountered trouble with ulysses either... went out on a dummy run for a toy run 2005, so i could be sure the route. im second to back, come over a gentle but blind rise, and heres this bike sitting in the ditch pointing back up hill. the rider had somehow fucked up, still dunno what happened that would cause the bike to change direction fully. guy had just got back into bikes after however many years, and of course bought the biggest shiniest bike in the shop... without the skill to control it.

never again... never. would rather ride with the grim reaper himself than with that lot.

the triumph club, however, i ride with when possible... they are the single big ride i reserve for once a year, that being their charity ride. ive gone on every one of them except in 04. hell... when i went up the paraparas on sunday, i followed one of my favourite members up... he was in his van.

the best paired ride ive ever done was with canarlee... he kept well back, gave me room, and "protected" me from overtaking cars by closing the gap so they couldnt pull in on top. awesome... would ride with him any day of the week.

[MotoGirl]

[B]...unless the ride has been organised accordingly.
Quicker people off first...etc.

That's precisely it though - if you know you're not going to be going the speed of lightning, pull out of the stop point after the fast guys.

There's no point putting yourself at the front if they all have to pass you. Likewise for if there's slower people in the group, get out in front of them. There's a reason I'm always last :msn-wink:



My scariest ride was with a bunch of Ulysses members, a mix of experienced competant riders, newbies and those who had ridden 20 or 30 years ago and fooled themselves into thinking they were skilled.
I know exactly what you're saying. I've been on Ulysses rides that had very experienced riders and fully licensed newbies in the group. This definitely has the potential to cause trouble if it's not properly managed.

Cajun and I went on a Ulysses ride last weekend, and because a particular member was fresh a bike, the RIC asked Cajun to babysit her on the ride. This was a great idea because everyone else could go a decent speed and the slower rider still had someone supporting her. My point is that anyone can go on a group ride provided they're not being encouraged to ride beyond their abilities. Oh yeah, let me add that Cajun and I are way too young to be Ulysses prospects!

[puddy]

Ya need another option in the Poll.
"I prefer to ride with select others when riding in a group".
Generally I'd pick the option above but I'm pretty good at reading others' riding so don't mind the odd group ride with "strangers".
Amen! Even if it did come from THAT GUY!

[sunhuntin]

That's precisely it though - if you know you're not going to be going the speed of lightning, pull out of the stop point after the fast guys.

There's no point putting yourself at the front if they all have to pass you. Likewise for if there's slower people in the group, get out in front of them. There's a reason I'm always last :msn-wink:



first couple of triumph rides i went on, i was told by the organisers to put myself as close to the front as possible as the pace would be slower. did it once and still ended up second to last in line... after being scared half to death by the sprotsbikes flying past. now, i pull out towards the middle of the group and hug the left hand staggered spot until those faster have gone past.

[pritch]

My experience with Ulysses rides is the opposite. (Not that I've been on *that* many). The local rides tend to be catering to the "born again" riders who are perhaps regaining confidence. I find the rides too slow.

Riding in a big group is apparently not to my taste.
I went on the local BRONZ Easter Egg run last year. At the scheduled departure time the leader announced the route, there's a chorus of, "I need a loo", "I need gas". As if this hasn't been scheduled for months, since the previous Easter in fact.
Then some muppet falls off on the first corner because his tyre is flat (and has been for ages?).

I don't want these pillocks anywhere near me.

The KB rides I've been on are different, even a big one like last years "sheep feast" run. These tend to break up into smaller groups, they also tend to be quick enough that you don't get passed by cars. Even on a recent instance where I had not previously met any of the other riders, there was not one uncomfortable moment. Nor would I have expected one.

I have had a "moment" or two on the local Pie and Pint runs but one can always let the cop bait go for it and proceed at one's own pace. If I go any slower I had better start paying attention to the route details....

Second rule of group rides: Turn up on time with a full tank and an empty bladder.

And I didn't vote because I guess I'm with dmntd and puddy...

[beyond]

My experience with Ulysses rides is the opposite. (Not that I've been on *that* many). The local rides tend to be catering to the "born again" riders who are perhaps regaining confidence. I find the rides too slow.

Riding in a big group is apparently not to my taste.
I went on the local BRONZ Easter Egg run last year. At the scheduled departure time the leader announced the route, there's a chorus of, "I need a loo", "I need gas". As if this hasn't been scheduled for months, since the previous Easter in fact.
Then some muppet falls off on the first corner because his tyre is flat (and has been for ages?).

I don't want these pillocks anywhere near me.

The KB rides I've been on are different, even a big one like last years "sheep feast" run. These tend to break up into smaller groups, they also tend to be quick enough that you don't get passed by cars. Even on a recent instance where I had not previously met any of the other riders, there was not one uncomfortable moment. Nor would I have expected one.

I have had a "moment" or two on the local Pie and Pint runs but one can always let the cop bait go for it and proceed at one's own pace. If I go any slower I had better start paying attention to the route details....

Second rule of group rides: Turn up on time with a full tank and an empty bladder.

Well said and ditto on the full tank and empty bladder :)

[oldrider]

Well said and ditto on the full tank and empty bladder :)

When you get older you will realise that your bladder is "always" full! :sick:

Well, just as you are ready to ride off anyway! :doh: John.

[sunhuntin]

When you get older you will realise that your bladder is "always" full! :sick:

Well, just as you are ready to ride off anyway! :doh: John.

someone needs to invent an engine that would run on urine... put jr in a baggie, with a tube running straight to a fuel line... bingo! no more need to get off and pee. dunno what us chicks would do though!

[scumdog]

I enjoy riding by myself (mostly with Cb on the back) but also riding with others, most of my group rides have been with KBers, the rest with HOG (not many of them).
About 75% of my riding is solo.

I just ride at my own pace, old enough and self-confident enough that I don't have to 'prove' anything.:cool:

[Renegade]

i mostly ride by myself, havent been to a KB ride yet but i do get excited when i see other bikes around especially like the other night when we merged on the expressway by chance and as we cruised along i enjoyed the company for the short time.

[sAsLEX]

Well said and ditto on the full tank and empty bladder :)

The time when everyone else is faffing about forgetting they need petrol after riding for an hour or so is always a good one to duck away and get out front no matter what you pace and get a nice solo cruise in during a group ride, just keep an eye on the mirror for the fast guys coming through.... if that happens to you Beyond?

[2wheeldrifter]

someone needs to invent an engine that would run on urine... put jr in a baggie, with a tube running straight to a fuel line... bingo! no more need to get off and pee. dunno what us chicks would do though!

Hmmm maybe one of those she-pee tube things (whatever they were called?) along with a custom hole in the seat.....

[idleidolidyll]

Hmmm maybe one of those she-pee tube things (whatever they were called?) along with a custom hole in the seat.....

Hmmm, some kind of dehydrator needed. Piss contains nitrate, one of the constituents of gunpowder doesn't it?

add sulphur and carbon in the right quantities and you might get some bang for your coffee

[Unit]

My pet hate on a group ride is people who leave the group and head off in their own direction without telling anyone. First there were 9, then there were 8? next stop, so do we backtrack and start looking in bushes etc?
The part I love the most is when a far more experienced rider chats to me at the next stop and tells me how smooth I was and that my lines were good. I crave this information as I attempt to improve my riding, little by little. Have one hell of a beast to control now, so I need to pay attention 100% of the time.

[Unit]

Edit

I get a bit intimidated (probably why I don't join the Tauranga rides ... I've seen the videos).
The BADD ride was supposed to be an organised orderly legal speed cruise, but once we hit the State Highway all hell broke loose. I was just over 110 km'h going up the Kaimais but was being passed as if I was standing still. Someone went by on their rear wheel. I felt out of my zone on the roads through to Okoroire, and as a result didn't enjoy it that much.
I guess I'm still a nana. :mellow:
As DMNTD said, the Tauranga bunch are actually mature riders, dont be put off by the video's, thats staged for the Camera's :Punk:
Shame about your experience on the BADD ride, especially given the reason for the ride.
If you are looking for a great day out in a small group, give DMNTD a pm, Im sure you will enjoy the experience.

[pritch]

When you get older you will realise that your bladder is "always" full!

LOL gotta share the love...

The Doctor gave me some good pills for that. probably get me thrown out of the Olympics though :whistle:

[uNople]

I've only ever ridden in a large group once - the Rolling thunder cruise the weekend before last. I found it was awesome, as it was constant collision avoidance. You really have to have a complete knowledge of what the hell EVERYONE is doing around you. In that cruise, we were side-by side, so we all had less of the road to turn corners. It was definitely a learning experience, and I recommend doing it at least once.

However. I prefer to ride with my old man. Or at least, follow him. He is fantastic at reading the road, and the current conditions (something I'm still learning). I also find that I go a shit-load faster while following him, because he's a way better rider than I am. If he goes round a corner at a certain speed, then I know I can follow him at the same speed.

I also like riding by myself as well. Always trying to lean the bike more, and be more precise around corners. Learning acceleration control, braking control, leaning control. Trying to be the best I can be. That's what I like doing by myself on my bike.

[BMW]

I perfer riding alone or with one other that matches my speed etc.

But I can put up with a small group.

[discotex]

In that cruise, we were side-by side, so we all had less of the road to turn corners. It was definitely a learning experience, and I recommend doing it at least once.

What sort of speeds were you doing? Anything over 15km/h and you'd think you'd stagger. Riding side by side around corners is asking for trouble and a group that rides that way at speed isn't something I'd want to be part of!

[EZAS]

its strange to be in a group where there is more motorcyles than cars on the road. I've only been in this situation once (as a pillion).
It always pays to be cautious around cars, but you have to be extra careful when your surround by a few hundred bikes.

[sunhuntin]

What sort of speeds were you doing? Anything over 15km/h and you'd think you'd stagger. Riding side by side around corners is asking for trouble and a group that rides that way at speed isn't something I'd want to be part of!

agreed. the big triumph ride i take part in, we ride in very close formation until we cross the river. but even in such a tight knit group, we stagger as much as possible, side by side is automatically avoided. only real side by side is when we pull out into line, but even then the forward bikes adjust so they stagger automatically, and that forces the following to stagger as well.
once we can spread out, the stagger remains, just gets wider and easier to ride in. usually the group will then get split between slower and faster riders, at times being broken all together by overtaking cars etc. most times, there ends up being about 4 groups.

[uNople]

What sort of speeds were you doing? Anything over 15km/h and you'd think you'd stagger. Riding side by side around corners is asking for trouble and a group that rides that way at speed isn't something I'd want to be part of!

Well, we were on the road from the Lyttleton tunnel, over past governor's bay, and over Gebbie's pass. When the road narrowed and we sped up we staggered, but we were mostly side-by side. We were going the speed limit - we were being led by the rolling thunder ute, and it set a safe pace.

[discotex]

Well, we were on the road from the Lyttleton tunnel, over past governor's bay, and over Gebbie's pass. When the road narrowed and we sped up we staggered, but we were mostly side-by side. We were going the speed limit - we were being led by the rolling thunder ute, and it set a safe pace.

Wow :eek5:

I know that road well and I'm surprised any club would ride side by side through there at the speed limit. Not so much for the corners (of which there are plenty and a few tight ones at road legal speed) but purely hazard avoidance. The lanes aren't wide and you have nowhere to go if there's a bike next to you and a manhole cover has been removed etc.

[uNople]

Wow :eek5:

I know that road well and I'm surprised any club would ride side by side through there at the speed limit. Not so much for the corners (of which there are plenty and a few tight ones at road legal speed) but purely hazard avoidance. The lanes aren't wide and you have nowhere to go if there's a bike next to you and a manhole cover has been removed etc.

Yes. That's why it was a constant collision avoidance. I think I'll be sticking to smaller groups though, because a big long ride like that would have been hard.

[Dave_G]

[QUOTE=Bob;1248863]So... what are your feelings about riding in groups?

Do you love it? Or hate it? Or somewhere in between?

Personally, I prefer to ride alone. I like to set my own agenda, set my own pace and not have to worry about what others are doing.


Me, I'll only ride with others if I know them and trust them, and that takes time and I'm more interested in their attitude than their riding experience. Otherwise I'm a loner, that way if I do F**k it up I only take myself out......

[Kelem]

I haven't ever ridden in a group - I don't think they are slow enough for me :laugh:

[chanceyy]

Interesting being a relative newbie myself

when i started riding rode in a small group of 4 of us the other 3 experienced and they watched out for me & it was up to them to pass me safely .. this gave me confidence to ride the distances of those early rides

since then I ride regularly with the Ashhurst crew, & most of the time end up riding by myself behind the faster riders once we get underway, which is fine, although it is a bonus if one of the experience riders are in front gives me the opportunity to follow lines & some of the guys are really great about looking after the newbie riders...

Also bonus if one of the experienced riders hang about at the back & give out tips ... but that does not happen that often :lol: :whistle:

I have no probs riding my own ride & if the group is quite small 2-4 bikes then yes I will ride slightly harder/ faster on occasions depending on circumstances, however in a larger group quite happy to hang about towards the middle/rear of the group .. I have nothing to prove & have actually slowed down to improve my riding

[What?]

I generally prefer to ride alone, but occasionally will ride with small groups of people that I know and trust.

Edit

Shame about your experience on the BADD ride, especially given the reason for the ride..

I avoid group rides like the plague - the BADD run should have been a model of sensibility, but in the 1 mile of highway between my gate and the side road I was going to, I lost count of the acts of utter stupidity I saw. Saw the same on organised runs 25+ years ago; seems nothing has changed.

[Pancakes]

The last ATNR was awesome! Like people have said, a gander around at the start can make you pick some bikes to stay away from but this was a good mixed bag of bikes and riders, all well prepaired and looking comfertable. I dunno how many bikes, 15 - 25, didn't count but it ran well. The group stayed close enough that no-one was waiting but broke into a few packs with good lines etc taken buy the people around me. A bit tough riding a 2fiddy when your following a Tuono and a Fazer thou and have the BusaPete's behind you. Some riders give a squirt on the straights and are gone but everyone was lovin the corners at around the same pace. No "young" riders were really there tho, there were young people but no-one that looked like they had anything to prove.