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Hand signals and warning calls used on group rides
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Hand signals
This section describes the common hand signals that are used when riding in a group. Make yourself aware of these hand signals and the associated calls that are used, as they are an important element in riding safely together as a group.
These signals should be quickly passed down the line as successive riders echo the original signal.
Turn left or Turn right
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Left or right hand extended out to the side. This basic hand signal should be used at all times. You should get in the habit of signaling whenever you are cycling on the public highway. But it is essential to signal clearly when riding in a group to warn other riders before you turn.
Slow Down
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One hand up and down as if gently patting an invisible dog. This shows that the group is slowing down or just to ease the pace back a bit. This signal is often accompanied with a call of ‘Stopping’ or ‘Slowing’.
Hazard
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Pointing down at the road sometimes with a circling motion. This indicates an obstruction or hazard on the road such as a pothole or drain cover that needs to be avoided. Be sensible with this signal and only point out major obstacles that should be avoided. This signal is often accompanied with a call of ‘Hole’ or ‘Gravel’.
Obstruction
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Waving and pointing behind back. This indicates that there is an obstruction such as a parked car or pedestrian and that the whole group needs to move in the direction indicated to avoid it. This signal is often used when passing a walker or another cyclist on a narrow path (in either direction). It is also useful when passing a lone parked car or other obstruction in the road. This signal indicates “moving right” or “moving left” rather than turning right or turning left.
Warning calls
This section describes the common warning calls that are used when riding in a group situation. In some cases, the call is accompanied with a hand signal.
Pass warning calls quickly up and down the line so that everyone follows suit.
Car up!
There is a motor vehicle coming up behind the group. Riders should move in and single out if needed. Pull in to let the vehicle pass if it is getting too delayed.
Car down!
There is a motor vehicle approaching the front of the group. Riders should move in or single out to allow the car to pass safely.
Car left! Or Car right! Or Clear!
These calls may be used when the group is joining or crossing another road. “Car left!” or “Car right!” means that a vehicle is approaching from the left or right and riders need to stop. Only call “Clear!” if you can see that the road is completely clear in both directions. If the situation changes and traffic appears, immediately shout “Car left!” or “Car right!”
Stopping! or Slowing!
Call out before you apply your brakes to warn the others riding behind you. Call when you see riders ahead braking, to warn the other riders. If possible indicate with a “slow down” hand signal at the same time.
Hole! or Gravel!
Call out when you come across any pothole or gravel that could cause a rider to fall. Be sensible with this call and only point out major obstacles that should be avoided. If possible indicate the position with a “hazard” hand signal so that following riders can steer away from it by either pointing or adding to the call “on the left!” or “on the right!”
Post! or Bollard! (or any obstruction up ahead)
This covers any obstruction up the road that could be hit by a rider. Call out obstructions as you approach them and if appropriate, use the “hazard” hand signal too.
Puncture!
Call out if you, or someone near you, has a puncture to let the other riders know and pass the message to the leader. The group will wait while you repair it (you will probably be given help!). You can use this same call to report other mechanical problems that require you to stop.
Single out!
A call from the Ride Leader or back-marker when a column of cyclists riding two abreast blocks cars from passing safely on narrow or busy roads or when riding round bends. This applies to both passing situations: overtaking cars or oncoming cars. Relay this call quickly (before you move) to ensure that the move to single file is executed quickly and safely.
Horse!
The group is about to pass horses and special care is needed. When approaching from behind, draw attention to your presence by calling out a greeting to the horse riders. Avoid ringing your bell as that can upset some horses. Pass as widely as possible and the last person past can inform the horse riders that all are past.
Bike! Walker! Jogger!
The group is about to pass another cyclist (or a walker or a jogger) on a narrow path. Call out as you approach and if possible indicate which side they are on with an “obstruction” hand signal so that following riders can move to avoid them.
Please be aware that sometime there are variations of these calls, so also use your eyes… and some commonsense!
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