Doing the rideout?

[-Ralph-]

Anyone else a bit apprehensive about riding in such a big group of bikes in close quarters? I've seen groups of 25, and occasions on the GM with 50, where riders get excited, swept up in the atmosphere, and are perhaps concentrating on the spectacle of it all, rather than what's in front or behind them?

I know I'll be taking it very easy, near the back, and riding very defensively in a group of that size.

I know I don't have to do the rideout, and I know others who have decided not to for exactly this reason, but I have decided the benefit outweighs the risk, but it still doesn't stop me being a bit apprehensive about it and I'm not exactly a newbie to group riding.

How many bikes are we actually expecting?

[fizzwheel]

Anyone else a bit apprehensive about riding in such a big group of bikes in close quarters?

I have to say that yes I am a little. Like you I wont have ridden in a group this big, although I have done plenty of bigger group rides on AR08 & AR09.

I think though that as long as everybody on the ride, rides sensibly and leaves each other room and space, we'll all be OK, I've found on most org rides everybody in the majority behaves themselves and I've got no reason to think that AR10 wont be any different in that respect.

[metalangel]

I am very nervous tbh, both because it'll be 364 days since my off and my first proper rideout in a group since then. I don't ride that fast anyway so I will likely be at the back of the back with only the Tail End Charlie for company.

Just a question, is there a map of the route anyway? Hovis would always draw it up in Google maps so you'd see what you were getting yourself into.

[timwilky]

I ain't a fast rider, but I do like a loon when the opportunity arises. I therefore see no reason why dedicated meet up points should not be identified and then it is upto the individual, do they want to play follow my leader or perhaps have a more spirited ride and a longer rest period at the meet points etc. and first dabs at the grub

OK I know I am the voice of dissent on this. I think it a valid argument, but the AR becomes personal fiefdoms to some and everybody must conform.

[Specialone]

Col, i will be with at the back lol
If my wife decides to do the rideout i will be even slower than normal, with a pillion on the back of the sprint it is very heavy and it takes a lot of effort and distance to stop from speed without clair headbutting me in the back and crapping herself.
She, like me will wanna take in the views like i will.
Ill be keeping my distance as ill be riding with a lot of people i dont know yet so dont know how they ride, i dont want someone slamming their anchors on coming up to a corner and me being too close.
I suspect a good proportion of the ride will be slow anyway with that amount of bikes.
I must admit i did toy with the idea of not doing the rideout as my shoulder is giving me grief still, but ibuprofen will sort that hopefully.

Cant wait now, im excited :)

[the_lone_wolf]

Riding with 200 others is no different from riding with 30 others

You'll only ever see up to 20 in front of you and maybe 5 behind unless you're on a really long straight

But it's more interesting when you can fill a small supermarket car park when you stop...

Just remember to wave and smile to the folks that stop and stare...




Now... Organising a 200 rider rideout... That's the challenge...

[timwilky]

Riding with 200 others is no different from riding with 30 others

You'll only ever see up to 20 in front of you and maybe 5 behind unless you're on a really long straight

But it's more interesting when you can fill a small supermarket car park when you stop...

Just remember to wave and smile to the folks that stop and stare...




Now... Organising a 200 rider rideout... That's the challenge...

Pit stops, a damm good reason to get there first.


We have an etiquette for fuel stops locally, once you have filled, push your bike away from the pump before you go to pay. that way somebody else can be filling whilst your paying. Makes getting though a lot quicker.

[hongman]

Hey we cant ALL be at the back!

But yeah, the biggest group I have rode in is with 2 others lol. Fresh license first bike etc.

Will be taking it eaaasy.

[mattSV]

Pit stops, a damm good reason to get there first.


We have an etiquette for fuel stops locally, once you have filled, push your bike away from the pump before you go to pay. that way somebody else can be filling whilst your paying. Makes getting though a lot quicker.

To make it quicker, how about the first person fills up, and then the second person pulls alongside, first person fills their tank too, third person pulls up, first person fills their tank, fourth person............................................ ......

Then everyone legs it leaving the first person with the bill :smt003

[hongman]

If the person at the pump doesnt mind, I'd just give them the cash (say £10 or £15) depending on how empty I am, and they can fill meup !

[-Ralph-]

Oh, well, nice to see I'm not alone.

It's not speed that worries me to be honest, I'm not talking about people crashing because they are not riding at their own pace, more what Fizz says about leaving room and space, and not ending up like a pack of dominoes if somebody gets into trouble, panics, or does something silly. Or people getting frustrated with the pace and riding down the wrong side of the road trying to get up front, before cutting back into a busy pack in at the last minute with oncoming cars flashing headlights, as I've seen a few times on the GM. Also once a car driver has waited for 100 bikes to pass at a give way, he is going to be pretty tempted to go for a silly gap and pull out on someone. Or simply someone marvelling that they can see see so many bikes in their mirrors, then looking back forwards just in time to avoid whoever they had been careering towards. Or car drivers marvelling at us and pointing us out to the kids, instead of looking where they are going. Etc, etc , etc. I just think we are all going to need to be all eyes!

100 bikes arriving in one place at the same time is just a situation on the road that nobody is expecting, nor is anybody particularly used to, and that's when **** happens.

[chris8886]

Riding with 200 others is no different from riding with 30 others

You'll only ever see up to 20 in front of you and maybe 5 behind unless you're on a really long straight

But it's more interesting when you can fill a small supermarket car park when you stop...

Just remember to wave and smile to the folks that stop and stare...




Now... Organising a 200 rider rideout... That's the challenge...

i agree here.

Oh, well, nice to see I'm not alone.

It's not speed that worries me to be honest, I'm not talking about people crashing because they are not riding at their own pace, more what Fizz says about leaving room and space, and not ending up like a pack of dominoes if somebody gets into trouble, panics, or does something silly. Or people getting frustrated with the pace and riding down the wrong side of the road trying to get up front, before cutting back into a busy pack in at the last minute with oncoming cars flashing headlights, as I've seen a few times on the GM. Also once a car driver has waited for 100 bikes to pass at a give way, he is going to be pretty tempted to go for a silly gap and pull out on someone. Or simply someone marvelling that they can see see so many bikes in their mirrors, then looking back forwards just in time to avoid whoever they had been careering towards. Or car drivers marvelling at us and pointing us out to the kids, instead of looking where they are going. Etc, etc , etc. I just think we are all going to need to be all eyes!

100 bikes arriving in one place at the same time is just a situation on the road that nobody is expecting, nor is anybody particularly used to, and that's when **** happens.

you raise some valid points, but the way i see it is that you can only control what you do! give yourself the best chance of anticipating and then reacting to a situation as you can. be confident and don't worry about what you can't control is my way of thinking. i've ridden in groups plenty of times, but none as big as this, other than the previous 2 AR's, but i'm not going to get myself worked up and worried about it (i don't mean this in a nasty way as there are plenty of other things that make me crap myself, lol).

[Drew Carey]

All we ask is that people really do pay attention during the pre-ride breifing and that people keep their distance. It doesn't matter at what point you get to each stop.

But yes, bit apprehensive about it. To be honest though, if people ride sensibly there shouldn't be any issues.


Just a question, is there a map of the route anyway? Hovis would always draw it up in Google maps so you'd see what you were getting yourself into.

In answer to this question, there is. But we won't be giving details of the route out until people arrive. This is the norm for the AR, plus, being a public forum, we don't want our whereabouts for the whole day known.

[phi-dan]

I'm not coming up to the AR, but I do occasionally get out on the Martin Jennings run (annual charity event - Martin died at the Manx 20-some years ago) which has a turnout of over 1000. In recent years it has had a police escort (6 bikes ish) and the bike paramedic turns out too.
tbh, the only trouble comes from people riding like twonks and trying to overtake the whole rideout in one go, then dropping back to do it all again. There was a bad accident a few years back (probably the reason the police now show up!), but that is the only time in the ride-outs history that anything like that has ever happened.
Now, I've not met any of you in person, but I'm sure you are all quite sane (regardless of what gets posted up here...) and so long as everyone sticks to their own limits / riding ability you will all have a blast.
Obligatory linky to video of lots of bikes on a rideout: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x78ic1PkmE8

[phil24_7]

I'm really looking forward to it, the sight of over 100 bikes, and more importantly the sound.

The ride is very well organised, with loads of markers who know there stuff. The general public seem to enjoy the sight and sound as much as us, so generally give us the time and space we need, sept for maybe 1 or 2 wollies!

If you think you are slow and nervous, believe me, there will always be someone slower, or more nervous than you, and after the first leg, you will all feel much better about things. You'll also find the group naturally divides up into smaller groups, making it seem much less intense...until the stops!

Then you get all the sights and sounds of the ride, compacted into a small area, which is awesome...Queue car park kill switch, and who's horn,exhaust is louder!!! :D

[hongman]

Sorry if this sounds a bit noobish.

How does the rideout actually work?

I know we well have someone leading, and someone right at the end - but what are the jobs of the markers?

[dyzio]

When the group gets spread out, you might find that you can't see anyone. So you might not know where to turn etc.

The job of the marker is to mark a junction and tell you where to go so you don't get lost. The marker waits at a junction until another maker arrives or until everyone has passed (TEC)

[hongman]

Ah I see.

Thank you

[Drew Carey]

I agree with everything Phil has said, with the exception of the last part. Please can we not have backfiring, burnouts etc in the stop areas. As will likely cause a world of hassle. lol. :D

[phil24_7]

I said horns, exhaust and car park kill switch!!! Backfiring/burnouts are very much frowned upon! :D

[-Ralph-]

car park kill switch!!!

I thought you meant backfiring too, ie: rev, then hit the kill switch.

What you mean is hit the kill switch, then watch and laugh as the rider fiddles with ignition, clutch, side stand and neutral, trying to figure out why the bike won't start. :D

Won't work for me, I flick off my kill switch every time I stop the bike, so I'm used to turning it on every time.

Sitting next to somebody at traffic lights, then hitting their kill switch just as the light turns green, and riding away, is much more fun anyway! :mrgreen:

[phil24_7]

Your very last comment is what I meant. In Tesco last year, there were a fair few of us hitting the kill switch of the person next to us. T'was an amusing way to pass the time for a couple minutes!

[Drew Carey]

When the group gets spread out, you might find that you can't see anyone. So you might not know where to turn etc.

The job of the marker is to mark a junction and tell you where to go so you don't get lost. The marker waits at a junction until another maker arrives or until everyone has passed (TEC)

All you need to worry about is enjoying the ride, enjoying the scenery and being aware of other riders.

Markers will direct people at any junctions and if you see a marker asking you to do something then please follow their instructions.

Other than that, enjoy the ride.

[Bear]

The AR is always a big ride out and I've marked the last 3. People know what to expect by now, and the pre-ride briefing confirms this, so we generally don't have too many idiots hooning about during the ride.

Ride at your own pace, give each other and the markers plenty of room, don't worry about the route as the markers are there to make sure you don't get lost, you probably won't be the slowest rider there, and even if you are it really doesn't matter due to the way the marker system is organised.

Most of all have fun!

There's very little to be worried about as far as I can see!

[Kate Moss]

The AR is always a big ride out and I've marked the last 3. People know what to expect by now, and the pre-ride briefing confirms this, so we generally don't have too many idiots hooning about during the ride.

Ride at your own pace, give each other and the markers plenty of room, don't worry about the route as the markers are there to make sure you don't get lost, you probably won't be the slowest rider there, and even if you are it really doesn't matter due to the way the marker system is organised.

Most of all have fun!

There's very little to be worried about as far as I can see!

Apart from you!!!

[jambo]

I have helped mark / look into the route for a couple of the ARs, and I would suggest the following:

Please don't fuss about being at the back if you're worried you'll be slow. It simply doesn't work like that. At the front the pace is actually slightly more consistent as people get less of an accordien effect going on. But it's entirely down to you. The people at the front will NOT be going bat-out-of-hell fast anyway unless they want the group hideously spread out.

Tim and I have had discussions about the dropping in & out of the rideout in the past. The simple point is every time people stop the markers have to check that they're OK, or just blast past assuming everyone must be on a fag break. It's an extra thing to check while hearding 100+ cats. However, I see his point and at the AR07 his mob got used to waving to show they were OK, so we did alright.

The ride is not a precession. Please don't overtake the markers, but you aren't expected to sit in single-file. A little common sense goes a long way, if you start buzzing people and being a twit purely for your own gratification you'll upset people and get a dressing down to boot. And how's that part of the fun weekend you wanted to come to?

While the AR is a big ride, it's traditionally been organised very well and people have had no problems getting where we're going, at a pace they're happy with*

*provided they weren't after a banzi charge carving up as many fellow riders as possible. In which case they've missed the point entirely.

I for one, am looking forward to being part of the group and enjoying the ride!

Jambo

[Bear]

Apart from you!!!

Yeah, but unless I'm looking in a mirror I can't see myself...

[phil24_7]

What...so you can't even see your hands or feet without looking in the mirror...weird!

[dyzio]

All you need to worry about is enjoying the ride, enjoying the scenery and being aware of other riders.

Markers will direct people at any junctions and if you see a marker asking you to do something then please follow their instructions.

Other than that, enjoy the ride.

Not worried at all mate :thumbsup:

Hongman was just asking what a "marker" does :)

[kwak zzr]

Apart from you!!!

Never met you BEAR but you seem to have gained a reputation lol

[metalhead19]

what a "marker" does

There the ppl who sit there going wtf as you carry on riding straight past them :rolleyes:

[keith_d]

While the AR is a big ride, it's traditionally been organised very well and people have had no problems getting where we're going, at a pace they're happy with*

*provided they weren't after a banzi charge carving up as many fellow riders as possible. In which case they've missed the point entirely.



Actually, if you want a banzai charge past as many riders as possible, that is an option too.

You just sit around making rude gestures at everyone who passes. Then, when you see TEC, you jump on your bike and blast past the lot of 'em, find a new place and start gesticulating all over again. It's called being a marker.

[robh539]

Just seen this post, its something i have been thinging about for a few days. I am apprehensive too, not knowing the other ride. My thought was potter at the back, if i do the run. If i dont i will prob go for a run on my own. some where.

As it seem a couple of you i know and trust may be at the back, awesome. :)

[gruntygiggles]

+1 to everything Drew, Jambo, Bear and a few others have said. I would say that we don't want to make too much noise at the stops as the last thing we need is a telling off from the boys in blue or to draw attention to ourselves in that way, but we can still have fun.

And please, if you're going to flick someones kill switch off....make sure they are a confident and experienced rider. I've seen someone do it a rider coming to a stop and that rider ended up dropping the bike in a panic....so have fun, but be thoughtful of who you are doing it to.

I'm a new rider and I've had the same apprehensions, but to be perfectly honest, I think that if everyone rides to their own abilities, staggers, leaves a safe distance, keeps their eyes open and keeps one of those eyes in their mirrors, we should all be fine.

Ride for yourselves, have consideration for others and don't get lulled into a false sense of security following the rider in front....they make be able to take a corner much better than you.

Most of all....relax and enjoy it...it's going to be quite a spectacle! :-)

[Red Herring]

I must confess to sitting on the fence a bit at the moment over riding on the AR. I'm still trying to sort my life out enough to get away next weekend but things are looking good at the moment, and it would be rude to come all the way to Wales and not enjoy the roads there. I did ask a while back about how the AR is going to be organized because I've a fair bit or experience around such things and personally I won't enjoy riding in a procession.

The problem with having dedicated "markers" is that you either need enough of them to cover every junction and start with them at the front (unlikely) or they need to be able to move through the group to get back to the front in time to mark the next junction, in which case the leader needs to keep the pace down enough for this to happen....and you end up in a procession. By keeping the pace down you also tend to end up with big groups, and there have also been several valid comments about the impact that can have on other road users.

Personally I'm a big fan of the drop off system where every rider has the potential of being a marker. If you're not sure how it works it's fairly simple. There is a dedicated leader at the front, and sweeper at the back, both wearing something distinctive... When the leader reaches a junction whoever is directly behind them stops and marks the junction until the sweeper arrives, then they rejoin in front of them. The advantage is that the leader can set a reasonable pace and hopefully string the group out over several miles, which means that every rider can ride at their own pace with room around them. If you want to ride fast then you generally end up marking a lot of junctions, if you want to ride at a slower pace then you don't ever have to stop, which helps keep the ride moving.

It's not my place to be dictating how you guys are going to run this but with 150-200 potential bikers to look after you're going to have your work cut out. My suggestion for what it's worth would be to break the whole affair up into four or five groups, each with a dedicated leader and sweeper, and allocate each group a particular pace. Set the more progressive group off first, followed by successive slower one. That will allow riders to choose which group they want to be in, and should they find themselves in a group that is a bit to quick for them they can simply stop, tell their sweeper they will be joining the group behind, and wait for the slower group. Likewise if the group is to slow they can move up a group at the petrol stop. Just a suggestion.....

[caz650s]

Hi Red herring,

I know where your coming from ,

But the peeps organizing this AR know the drop off system inside out & we have been using it for years on our 'normal' rideouts all over the country.

I don't know if you have attended an AR before ... but there is no way you can start dividing riders up into seperate groups .

The system being used this year has worked perfectly over the last few AR's and there is no way it will change for this one !

If You do not like the idea of riding in a 'prossesion' with your fellow orgers .. which after all is what it is all about ... You may be better of going for a blast on your own at a pace that suits you ??

To be honest suggesting changing a rideout that others have put hours of their time into organising is a bit thoughtless & could make some nervous riders feel even more put off going on a brilliant ride that Everyone should be able to enjoy in their own way.

[Red Herring]

Fair point, but there have been several people, me included, asking just how it will be done and all we have received back is a "don't worry, the markers will take care of everything". I appreciate that may re-assure many but for anyone who knows anything about organizing this number of riders it just won't wash. I do understand you may have done this before, but my understanding from reading previous threads is that you hadn't had this many involved then so I was just trying to be helpful. My apologies if it wasn't welcome.

[caz650s]

Sorry if I sounded a bit harsh ... maybe an idea to put forward for next year ?

I hope You have a great AR

Caz

[SoulKiss]

OK I know I am the voice of dissent on this. I think it a valid argument, but the AR becomes personal fiefdoms to some and everybody must conform.

Not this **** again.

Theres always one every year...

Its the Annual Rideout - if you want to go hooning/looning/being a **** then it may not be the rideout for you...

As mentioned, its a lot of people, so some restraint is probably the order of the day.

[gruntygiggles]

Guys, Stretchie is doing the route and leading, so he will be along to comment on this soon.

What I will say is that we have been discussing this for the last 9-10 months and with all of the combined experience, the ride has been organised to ensure the safety of all involved. This is the priority and having already discussed this to exhaustion, the marker system is the only system that will ensure this level of safety.

I do appreciate any comments and suggestions, but we won't be changing the running of the rideout now. All sections will be marked safely, allowing riders to only have to concentrate on their own riding...the markers will look after everyone.

There are enough markers to mark each section without the need to have to be in a silly rush to get back to the front.


Again, safety for all is paramount here and we will be more likely to have 120-150 bikes, I'd be surprised if we had any more bikes than that. Many go twos up and many are not even bringing bikes.

Rest assured guys, we'll happily answer questions, but we do have this in hand. :-)

[Specialone]

As it seem a couple of you i know and trust may be at the back, awesome. :)

Space available :p
Ill be somewhere near the back no doubts, just chillin and taking in the amazing scenery, if i wanted a fast ride i wouldnt do it saturday.

Still think its gonna be worth it though, cant wait :)

[_Stretchie_]

Oooft, that was alooooot of reading, I can't answer each bit cos it'd take a while so I will answer some key points (and some not so key points).

If you think any of my comments are abrupt I can honestly say there is no malice or ill feeling behind them, just remember, I'm a northern monkey and stringing one coherent sentance together is quite hard work for me let alone all the below.

I love you all :smt003

I ain't a fast rider, but I do like a loon when the opportunity arises. I therefore see no reason why dedicated meet up points should not be identified and then it is upto the individual, do they want to play follow my leader or perhaps have a more spirited ride and a longer rest period at the meet points etc. and first dabs at the grub

OK I know I am the voice of dissent on this. I think it a valid argument, but the AR becomes personal fiefdoms to some and everybody must conform.

I see your point mate but to be honest it's not going to happen, pretty much all the comments seem to be aimed at health and saftey, and if people start going off on their own we have no way of being sure everything is ok, you can guarantee if one person shoots off, several will follow, and then some more and then more again, we would have a couple of break off groups from the main ride and what happens if we get to a stop and they are not there? How long do we stay at that stop to ensure they can join again, and also if we didn't stay at the stop until these people turned up then you can also guarantee there would be uproar and people worrying about them and probably not concentrating on their own riding.

Riding with 200 others is no different from riding with 30 others

You'll only ever see up to 20 in front of you and maybe 5 behind unless you're on a really long straight

But it's more interesting when you can fill a small supermarket car park when you stop...


Well said my boy

Sorry if this sounds a bit noobish.

How does the rideout actually work?

I know we well have someone leading, and someone right at the end - but what are the jobs of the markers?

Exactly dude, there is a leader at the front (Me) and a TEC (Tail End Charlie) at the back (Bellerophon) you DO NOT overtake the leader and the the TEC will not overtake you, if you are at the roadside and see the TEC (we an the markers will be very visible with brightly coloured bibs on) wave them down to let them know you are in our group. The TEC will not be able to know every one who is in our group.

The markers will start off behind the leader and as we get to a junction/turning the first marker behind the leader will pull over WHERE IT IS SAFE TO DO SO and point people in the direction to take. They will stay there until the TEC appears, the TEC will wave the marker to move on and will not overtake the marker as the TEC should ALWAYS be the person at the back.


The AR is always a big ride out and I've marked the last 3.


Ride at your own pace,
Give each other and the markers plenty of room,
Don't worry about the route as the markers are there to make sure you don't get lost
You probably won't be the slowest rider there, and even if you are it really doesn't matter due to the way the marker system is organised.

Most of all have fun!

There's very little to be worried about as far as I can see!

Well said Big J


Please don't fuss about being at the back if you're worried you'll be slow. It simply doesn't work like that. At the front the pace is actually slightly more consistent as people get less of an accordien effect going on. But it's entirely down to you. The people at the front will NOT be going bat-out-of-hell fast anyway unless they want the group hideously spread out.

The ride is not a precession. Please don't overtake the markers, but you aren't expected to sit in single-file. A little common sense goes a long way, if you start buzzing people and being a twit purely for your own gratification you'll upset people and get a dressing down to boot

While the AR is a big ride, it's traditionally been organised very well and people have had no problems getting where we're going, at a pace they're happy with

Jambo

Very well put, and he is right, I will be leading a very legal rideout, the further back you are the more spaced out the group gets due to traffic and lights and junctions and stuff, do not concern yourself where you are in the group or how fast you are going, it should be no different to riding at anytime if you are aware of your surrounding as you should be if you are riding a bike/driving a car. Use your mirrors, check your blind spots remember it 'Mirror, Signal, Manouvre' for a reason, (and indicate BEFORE you move, not AS you move, we are not BMW drivers ;) )

Never met you BEAR but you seem to have gained a reputation lol


For a good reason, I have only ever had one other mans tongue in my mouth and it was BEAR's

The problem with having dedicated "markers" is that ......

Personally I'm a big fan of the drop off system....

It's not my place to be dictating how you guys are going to run this but with 150-200 potential bikers to look after you're going to have your work cut out.....

To be honest mate that very same conversation was had in the organising of this AR, and in the organising of AR08 and I can only presuming in the organising for all the others.

Pro's and cons to all different ways of doing things and we chose the method where the benefits most outweigh the risks.

This is my fourth AR and to be honest mate this is one of the conversations which comes up every year, if you organise a big rideout as a drop off system you get the same conversation but with people saying "I don't like the sound of this drop off system, what happens if I end up behind the leader but I don't want to mark the junction?" "I am a new rider, not ridded in groups before what happens if I end up a couple of bikes behind the leader mbecause I don't want to mark but none of the people ahead of me mark, do I HAVE to mark"



Hi Red herring,

I know where your coming from ,

But the peeps organizing this AR know the drop off system inside out & we have been using it for years on our 'normal' rideouts all over the country.

I don't know if you have attended an AR before ... but there is no way you can start dividing riders up into seperate groups .

The system being used this year has worked perfectly over the last few AR's and there is no way it will change for this one !

If You do not like the idea of riding in a 'prossesion' with your fellow orgers .. which after all is what it is all about ... You may be better of going for a blast on your own at a pace that suits you ??


Pretty much sums it up

Fair point, but there have been several people, me included, asking just how it will be done and all we have received back is a "don't worry, the markers will take care of everything".

I hope that got answered above :smt003

My understanding from reading previous threads is that you hadn't had this many involved then so I was just trying to be helpful. My apologies if it wasn't welcome.

Not at all mate, if people don't bring these things up then they cannot be addressed. This thread is far from unwelcomed and I hope that by starting this a few people have had some worried addressed.




Peace out :D

[Drew Carey]

Just to add to what Cheryl has said, we have enough markers to cover all junctions on each leg. All we ask is that people just enjoy the ride. Most markers will therefore be taking their to get to the front, mainly to help out when we get to stops etc.

All junctions are marked, even straight on islands.

The problem with splitting up groups is that so and so wants to ride with so and so and it becomes a pain organising who goes where. Plus, it spreads the ride out shed loads. So at stops etc you are waiting for ages. Its worked for all previous AR's so we are comfortable it will work again.

Like Cheryl said, ask questions and will happily answer them.

[Drew Carey]

Well said Mr Stretchie man.

[-Ralph-]

The intention in starting the thread, was to dicuss the thoughts of individuals about riding in such a big group, potentially at cllose quarters with riders that you do not know. The thread wasn't intended to question the organisation, or the meriits of the marker system. I personally have no qualms about the marker system in use, so long as the markers have thier head screwed on when it comes to making thier way forwards through the pack te system is pretty foolproof. I will be movin to the left to let markers through at a safe opportunity, but thats dwn to individual rider choice, and what you feel is a good opportunity may not be in the markers eyes, so if they don't come through I'll just move back to my normal position.

[gruntygiggles]

The intention in starting the thread, was to dicuss the thoughts of individuals about riding in such a big group, potentially at cllose quarters with riders that you do not know. The thread wasn't intended to question the organisation, or the meriits of the marker system. I personally have no qualms about the marker system in use, so long as the markers have thier head screwed on when it comes to making thier way forwards through the pack te system is pretty foolproof. I will be movin to the left to let markers through at a safe opportunity, but thats dwn to individual rider choice, and what you feel is a good opportunity may not be in the markers eyes, so if they don't come through I'll just move back to my normal position.

Well said there Ralph, I could did think about starting a new thread, but a week away and given the fact that all will be explained in the pre ride briefing, thought it unecessary.

To address your point above......if people feel happy to move out of the way for markers, by all means do so and no, we may not always go, even if you think it is safe for us...we'll still be grateful for the thought though.

However...and this is important, so I'll put it in writing...

The markers are all riders that are prepared for the job in hand, all markers are responsible for passing other riders when they deem it is safe to do so. It is not necessary for any rider to feel that they must find room to move across to allow the markers through....they'll sort themselves out.

:-)

And to reiterate.....ask us any questions you want, start a thread, PM, we don;t care or mind, we'd rather you ask and bring things up so that, as Stretchie said, we can know about it and address it :-)

[hongman]

What happens, god forbid, if a bike breaks down mid ride?

[Bluefish]

What happens, god forbid, if a curvy breaks down mid ride?


Fixed for you mate, Hongman i think peeps will stop and help to fix or arrange recovery if can't be fixed at the roadside.

[hongman]

Im sure peeps would stop to help, but then that would/could possibly lead to a group breaking off as they are trying to fix/diagnose.

For those who know me a bit already, Im not worrying about it - just curious as to if there is an official "plan" to handle something like this ;)

[fizzwheel]

just curious as to if there is an official "plan" to handle something like this ;)

No there isnt normally. It would be down to you to ensure that

1. Your bike is in a fit state to complete the journey to the AR the rideout and the journey home.

2. You have some way of getting home i.e. recovery or breakdown etc etc

I'm confident that you would get all the help and asisstance to get you going and mobile again. Such is the way of the org nobody would leave you stranded, but there are somethings that you cant just fix at the side of the road. But IMHO the rideout wouldnt stop completely just because one person had had a breakdown. Yes one or two people would stop and you'd defo get help, but it'd be down to you at the end of the day.

As said in another thread, its not the job of the TEC or markers to carry tools, spares etc etc to get you going again if you have a breakdown. So you need to be prepared and self sufficent.

IMHO.

[hongman]

I completely agree!

But that answers my question ;)

[gruntygiggles]

Im sure peeps would stop to help, but then that would/could possibly lead to a group breaking off as they are trying to fix/diagnose.

For those who know me a bit already, Im not worrying about it - just curious as to if there is an official "plan" to handle something like this ;)

No there isnt normally. It would be down to you to ensure that

1. Your bike is in a fit state to complete the journey to the AR the rideout and the journey home.

2. You have some way of getting home i.e. recovery or breakdown etc etc

I'm confident that you would get all the help and asisstance to get you going and mobile again. Such is the way of the org nobody would leave you stranded, but there are somethings that you cant just fix at the side of the road. But IMHO the rideout wouldnt stop completely just because one person had had a breakdown. Yes one or two people would stop and you'd defo get help, but it'd be down to you at the end of the day.

As said in another thread, its not the job of the TEC or markers to carry tools, spares etc etc to get you going again if you have a breakdown. So you need to be prepared and self sufficent.

IMHO.

I completely agree!

But that answers my question ;)


Just to clarify the above and add a little. Yes, you will have a marker or the T.E.C. stop and help you should you break down or have any issues...BUT...you need to remember the following:-

You have to wave down a marker or the TEC if you pull over in a layby or car park somewhere as with so many bikes, we'll have no idea of knowing if you are with our group or not.

You have to ensure that not only is your bike fit to do the miles and that you're taxed, insured and MOT'd...but also that you have a breakdown cover that will get you home if you need it.

Now....about stopping...the rideout won't be stopped because someone has broken down, but that person won't just be left alone...we wouldn't do that to any of you :-)

[-Ralph-]

If I breakdown and we cant get it started within 10 minutes, or I come off and the bike is not ridable, will insist that you leave me there. I have breadown cover, and a mobile phone, and I'm a big boy. As we said the rideout wont be stopped, and I wont have TEC, marker, or any other rider, falling so far behing the pack that they are left behind and miss the rest of the ride.

Excuse the crappy typing in the last few posts, Im away fromhome and on a pda

[gruntygiggles]

If I breakdown and we cant get it started within 10 minutes, or I come off and the bike is not ridable, will insist that you leave me there. I have breadown cover, and a mobile phone, and I'm a big boy. As we said the rideout wont be stopped, and I wont have TEC, marker, or any other rider, falling so far behing the pack that they are left behind and miss the rest of the ride.

Excuse the crappy typing in the last few posts, Im away fromhome and on a pda


Haha, typing seems fine Ralph...lol.

Good post above. It's there for people that will need it :-)

[timwilky]

One thing I would suggest to all attending the AR and especially the rideout.

Please take with you you licence, insurance cert, MOT if applicable plus breakdown phone numbers etc.

If we do attract the unwelcome attention of the boys in blue, we should be able to clear them quicker if we can show the docs instead of them having to check with DVLA, insurance bureau etc.

[hongman]

I've heard that the Welsh police are rather strict on bikes as well??

[gruntygiggles]

I've heard that the Welsh police are rather strict on bikes as well??

That's more North Wales.....you'll see a few about, but they are pretty chillaxed where we're going.

Chillaxed does not mean they won't pull you for speeding/riding dangerously though, so remember that you are responsible for the decisions you make on the road....try not to ruin it for everyone by getting yourself pulled!

Not aimed at you there Hong...lol, just in general ;-)

[Red Herring]

See, I told you we need to send a fast group off ahead. They can draw all the heat for the rest of us......

[hongman]

Is that an offer RH?!

As soon as they pull you, you can show your badge, keep em occupied in rozzer chat, and we'll go by unnoticed!

[Red Herring]

Trust me the last thing I would use is Rozza chat, nothing more guaranteed to make them go all official and do everything by the book! On the other hand, knowing that i would have done nothing wrong (of course) I might be a bit inclined to wind them up a bit....You probably wouldn't want to be the next person they stopped!

[metalangel]

Just a slightly odd question here... if it is indeed inclement weather and I end up coming with four wheels instead of two, are cars allowed on the rideout? I'd stay right at the back (possibly behind the TEC if that's necessary) just to enjoy the trip. Plus I have a petrol can...

[Kate Moss]

Just a slightly odd question here... if it is indeed inclement weather and I end up coming with four wheels instead of two, are cars allowed on the rideout? I'd stay right at the back (possibly behind the TEC if that's necessary) just to enjoy the trip. Plus I have a petrol can...

I could attach my bike to the back of your car and you can just pull me round then, that would be much easier!

[-Ralph-]

Just a slightly odd question here... if it is indeed inclement weather and I end up coming with four wheels instead of two, are cars allowed on the rideout? I'd stay right at the back (possibly behind the TEC if that's necessary) just to enjoy the trip. Plus I have a petrol can...

Sure nobody would mind a sweeper vehicle! Or a boot to stick their luggage in. And you pay your road tax and your petrol, you can drive behind the ride-out if you want.

[-Ralph-]

My piece of **** Vauxhall Vectra has broken down AGAIN! It feels like it's running on three cylinders and has an engine warning light.

My wife is supposed to take it to France in two weeks, where it was stranded last summer for three months after a breakdown! Depending on what the fault is, I may not trust it to do that journey with my wife and my three year old son on her own, which means I may bring forward buying her a new car by a couple of months - to this weekend! Yep, that'll mean no AR for me I'm afraid.

We'll see it could just be something simple

[Drew Carey]

Just a slightly odd question here... if it is indeed inclement weather and I end up coming with four wheels instead of two, are cars allowed on the rideout? I'd stay right at the back (possibly behind the TEC if that's necessary) just to enjoy the trip. Plus I have a petrol can...

I don't think you could be in-front of the TEC, as might make it a little dangerous. However people are more than welcome to follow and be at stops to take photos etc.

To be honest Saturday is looking like some light showers, with it being 20oC. So the roads will be mostly dry during the day I imagine.

Plus Sunday looks glorious for the ride home for most people. So personally always worth bringing the bike.

[-Ralph-]

We'll see it could just be something simple

It was simple, a misfire on cylinder 2, knackered spark plug. Can't very well blame the car for that, but it does make me wonder yet again about my full main dealer service history!! I'll go get a whole new set of plugs and drop them in. Car shopping can wait until after the AR.

[Specialone]

It was simple, a misfire on cylinder 2, knackered spark plug. Can't very well blame the car for that, but it does make me wonder yet again about my full main dealer service history!! I'll go get a whole new set of plugs and drop them in. Car shopping can wait until after the AR.

:cool: im glad its not terminal for you Col.

I used to own vauxhalls 12+ years ago, but was very dissapointed with the realiability of the next wave of models from the ones i had.

My bro used to be a rozza and in the stations he was assingned, every single car they had was vauxhall and every single one broke down within a few thousand miles with the same problem, engine management failure (black box thing), it was a common problem but vauxhall swept it under the carpet to keep a lid on it.

I wouldnt buy one now tbh, even if they are all good.

[gruntygiggles]

In answer to the question...pretty much as Drew has said. You're more than welcome to take the car, but yes, you'll have to be prepared to stay behind TEC if you can just to make things a bit easier for him. There will be maos of the route with all the stops marked in the leaflets you'll get Friday, so if the TEC manages to get through traffic that you can't, you'll still be able to at least know where you're going.

Dan and I took the Civic on the reccie for AR08 and the look on Fizz's dads face was a picture when we got to one of the stops and he realised we were still right behind them...lol. ALl you could smell was clutch and brakes :-)

[metalangel]

Yeah yeah it's cool... thanks guys. Obviously I do want to come on the bike but if it's going to be much beyond Mildly Moist I will prefer the car.