Corner Marking
the mystery explained

At the beginning of each ride we appoint both a Lead Rider and a Rear Rider.

Lead Rider:- The Lead rider, usually the ride Captain, will set the pace of the ride. Members are requested not to pass the Lead Rider, but if you do wish to ride ahead of the Lead you will basically be on your own. Therefore if you are not sure of the route, stay with the group.

Remember, persons riding away from the group will be considered,  'On their own.'

Rear Riders:- The two Rear Riders shall always travel behind the slowest rider, as you would presume this can sometimes be a little tedious or boring over long distances. For this reason the Rear riders will be changed regularly. Consequently it is imperative that you make yourself aware of who is the rear rider. If you are experiencing any problems or having bike trouble, pull over to the left and wave another rider down, the rear rider will then stop and we will sort the problem out. If you must pull over and don't flag another rider or the rear rider down the problems are obvious. 

Also, if you notice that your bike is playing up along the way, please inform a committee member of the situation so that we can keep an eye on your progress.

Remember, take some responsibility for your own situation, don't be left on the side of the road.

NOTE: At no time whatsoever will the rear riders pass any rider, therefore you are requested not to stop at inappropriate times and as a result split the group up.
Toilet breaks/Refuels etc should be taken at designated stops if at all possible.

Corner Marshals:- (Second & Third Riders)         When approaching a corner, junction, or other change in direction, the Lead Rider will indicate with his left arm for the next two riders to MARK the corner.   To do this the rider following the Lead Rider should pull over just prior to the turn and indicate to other riders which direction to take. The next, or third rider, should pull over just around the corner, preferably within view of the second rider.  

Both of these riders should then indicate the change of direction until signaled to ride on by the Rear Rider. The reason behind this is simple, if someone breaks down one member can stay at the corner, the other can go back, after a reasonable time, and find out what the problem is. Please dont under any circumstances leave a designated corner UNMARKED until instructed to move by the rear rider.

Fuel Stops:- Fuel stops are set for the following reasons,
At distances that will aid all riders not to have to refuel before the next designated stop.
At locations that fit in with the ride itinerary and therefore will not slow down the majority of riders.
Therefore it is requested that everyone should refuel at these designated stops, even if you still have half a tank of fuel.

 

Common Problems

The most common fault that we get with the corner marking system is either members failing to watch for the arrival of the rear rider, or anticipating a greater time prior to the tail riders arrival and getting tied up, with for example having a smoke.

This both slows the ride down, breaks up the group, and inconveniences the rear rider who 'due to club policy' must stop and wait for the corner markers to get moving.

 

Start times                 Ride start times are scheduled so that the ride will finish at a reasonable time, and so that we can arrive at our designated lunch stop on time. These times will be adhered to and it is therefore your responsibility to arrive on time. It is also requested that all members arrive at the starting location with a FULL TANK of petrol.