This is
popular with groups going on long rides. Understanding the system is important
as every rider needs to do their part to avoid anyone getting lost. Scotland 1
is going to and use this system in group rides and see how we get on. It has
successfully been used by us a few times, and as long as everyone plays their part,
IT WORKS.
One leader is responsible for navigating the route and one sweeper (Two
sweepers when the ride is big enough) is/are responsible for ensuring the run
stays together. These are the only rider’s who maintain their position in the
group at all times.
At every junction the rider immediately behind the leader stops and marks the
junction. All other riders pass the marker except the sweeper who signals that
he/she is the last in the group. The marker then re-joins the group 2nd from
the back.
This approach involves the entire group and the marker gets rotated from front
to back and naturally moves up to the front again. The method works perfectly
provided everyone makes clear, safe markings and doesn't forget they are in the
No.2 position, when it is their turn to mark.
Nobody other than the sweeper is allowed to ride last for any reason whatever.
If you want to leave the group you should pull in to the left in a safe,
visible position and wave other riders past. When the sweeper arrives he will
stop and you can then inform him/her that you are leaving the group and why.
Overtaking
is allowed, provided you are safe. This means that if you have marked a
junction, and you can safely overtake others in the group, that nobody should
be frustrated with being stuck behind a slower rider.
Note: Please arrive for a run with a full tank of petrol and an empty bladder!!
Petrol stops will be determined on the lowest tank range of participants. You
are advised to fill up at these stops.
If a participant stops for any reason you should keep going, There is a sweeper
at the back of the group who knows the route and will stop and assist. He will
also contact the leader if required.
The leader and sweeper will wear some kind of distinctive vest or jacket.
A roundabout should be marked by parking in a safe, visible position on the
exit. When going straight through at a crossroads where you don't have right of
way you may mark it if you wish. The default action in such a case is to
continue straight through. Therefore, if there is no marker when you arrive at
such a junction you should go straight on. If you decide to mark it you should
do so by parking in a safe visible position on the far side of the crossroads.
When marking a junction please park in a position that does not obstruct the
other riders. If necessary point in the direction that riders arriving at the
junction should proceed in.
There is no need when using the drop off system to keep the rider behind in
your mirrors. No need to play catch-up. With the drop off system there will be
a marker waiting at the next change of direction.
Every rider should keep a safe distance behind the rider in front. Tailgating
is frowned on.
To avoid unscheduled stops please make sure all cases, tank bags etc are closed
and secured before starting.
When you are the marker, wait for the sweeper to arrive even if it takes a long
time (there may be a breakdown further back in the run which you are unaware
of). If necessary switch off your engine. If you leave your position
everyone behind will suffer and the run will fall apart.
If you're unsure whether you should mark a junction, then mark it anyway.
Better to mark a junction that doesn’t need marking than not mark a junction
that does!
Ride your own ride, don’t allow yourself to be pulled or pushed along. Enjoy
yourself at your own pace.