CHAPTER 10 M/C RIDERS CLUB

Rules of the Road

1. Members should ride in a friendly and courteous manner, showing respect for other road users and refraining from altercations whenever possible. Also members are expected to offer assistance to fellow bikers in distress.

2. During all rides, we will use the time tested "Staggered Riding Formation", The space between each bike, should be large enough to have a safe reaction time, but not too large as to break up the pack by other vehicles. The lead Bike will ride in the center of the lane and all others will follow in the staggered formation except while cornering, then stay in single file. Staying in formation is essential to having a safe and professional ride.

3. On group rides, bikes must be road worthy, gassed up and ready to ride. Riders should assemble for a briefing by the Ride Committee Chairman AKA ( Road Captain ) or his representative at least five minutes before take off time, at which time ride details will be given including,, Route map, Contact numbers, Scheduled stops, Etc. It is understood the Road Captain will provide ample information on the ride at least one week prior to departure. Further, Road Captain in consultation with a mechanic, will have the final say on bikes joining rides if road worthiness is in question.

4. It is the responsibility of members to insure their capacity to ride is not impaired by alcohol or other influences. In the interest of the welfare of the rider and the Group, the Rode Captain or his appointed representative is empowered to ban a member from joining a ride if he feels that member's capacity to ride safely has been impaired.

5. On group rides, members should maintain their position, and avoid overtaking other bikes whenever possible. If necessary to overtake another bike, the passing bike must get acknowledgment from the bike being passed. Riders should not overtake the lead bike. If the lead bike is accidentally passed in traffic, the erring bike should slow down and allow the lead bike to pass and then safely rejoin the pack. Group riding is to be enjoyed by all and is not a race. Members should stay together as a group to improve visibility, safety and enjoyment. Members should also keep a close watch on the bike directly in front and in back of you, watching for Mechanical problems, Rider fatigue, Etc.

6. Recognizing different levels of riding ability and capacity of bikes, members should ride within their comfort zone. Lead bike and sweeper will endeavor to set a pace appropriate to traffic and road conditions. All riders should be familiar with The Teamster Horseman hand signals, The Road Captain will issue a leaflet containing this information.

7. In event of an accident, riders should stop as quickly and safely as possible and await instructions from the Road Captain or his delegate. All situations differ so common sense should be used by the first members at the scene; i.e., direct traffic, assist the fallen rider, clear the fallen bike, etc. Conn. Law does not require helmets. But the Teamster Horseman Club encourages members to wear them! But it’s up to each member to choose. However, helmets are required on a passenger if he or she is a minor. and remember all states surrounding Conn. have helmet laws.

8. Guest Riders are welcome but should be briefed by the Road Captain and introduced to the President, sweeper and Sgts.-at-Arms. They should be positioned at the back of the pack.and ride in a responsible manner.

9. Blockers, Whenever possible the Road Captain will assign at least 2 senior members to handle Traffic concerns at intersections, and situations where they feel the groups safety may be at risk . At no time shall any other member or guest! leave formation and block traffic. Remember to allow extra room on your left side for Our blockers to return to the front of the pack.

10. To all parties within the Teamster Horseman membership, It is your responsibility to know, learn and be informed of the rules of the road ....For these reasons The Teamster Horseman Chapter 10 will have, on any given event. Club officers, A Road Captain, or his representative, a Sweeper, and a Mechanic, So if your not sure of something ask!! It’s the express concern of the Teamster Horseman Club that every member operates his or her bike in a safe and legal manner.....

Road Captain / Ride Committee Chairman