Let’s face it; we all use hand signals when we are riding—some more appropriate than others. In addition to those, there’s a whole lexicon of hand signals that motorcycle riders use to communicate with each other when riding in groups. These signals can mean anything from “Hey, your blinker is on” to “Let’s stop at the next gas station”. Knowing your hand signals and what they mean to your fellow riders can make your next group ride significantly more enjoyable.
Universal hand signals are used silently to impart important information such as safety, speed, road conditions, and cops ahead. Here are a few hand signals you can use on your next group ride.
High Beams On—When a rider taps their head, it is usually to indicate that high beams are on. In some groups, it can be used to mean that there are cops ahead.
Debris on Road—If a rider shakes his leg, it is usually meant to tell the riders behind him that there is debris coming up ahead on that side of the road.
Turn Signal On—If a biker flashes his hands at you, it usually means that you’ve left your turn signal on.
Start Your Engines—Circling a finger overhead can mean two things. If you are not riding yet, it can mean start your engines. If you are already riding it can be used to indicate the need to turn around because you are going the wrong way or you’ve passed the exit.
Gas Station Stop—If a biker points at his or her tank, it usually means that he needs to stop at the next gas station.
Riding Single File—if riders need to ride in a single file line to avoid debris or obstacles, a rider will point his or her finger straight up in the air.
Riding Double Formation—When a group needs to get back into double formation, the lead rider will raise 2 fingers in the air.
Pass—if a biker in front of you swoops his arm forward, he or she is usually trying to tell you to pass them and get in front.
Speeding Up—if a biker wants you to speed up, he or she will extend an arm straight out with palm facing up.
Slow Down—if you need to slow down, a biker in front of you will extend his arm straight out with his palm facing down. His arm will then move down and back up.
Refreshment Break—when riders need to refuel their bodies, they will bring their thumb to their mouth with their fingers closed.
Comfort Stop—if a rider needs to stop at the nearest restroom, he or she will extend forearm with a fist clinched.
Before you head out for a group ride, it is important to know how to communicate silently with your fellow riders. This will make the ride more enjoyable and safe for you and your group.
At Russ Brown Motorcycle Attorneys®, we know why you ride—because we are motorcyclists too. We want you to ride safely and responsibly and that’s why we created BAM, a free roadside and legal assistance program. It’s also why we have dedicated our entire legal practice to helping injured motorcyclists obtain the help they need. To learn more about our practice or BAM, call us at 1-800-4-BIKERS or visit us on the web at Russbrown.com.
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FAQs
Motorcyclists, while riding a bike when encountered by other bikers coming from the opposite direction, point out their index and middle finger of their left hand towards the ground. This is a way of expressing respect towards the other motorcyclist. It's our way of saying, “Hello!
How do you communicate with other bikers? ›
A motorcycle intercom is a device that allows riders to communicate with each other while riding. The device consists of a microphone, a speaker, and a wireless connection that enables communication between the riders. Some intercoms even allow for connection to a phone, GPS or music player.
Do you have to use hand signals on a motorcycle? ›
Communication is vital when riding a motorcycle to ensure the safety of both the rider and others on the road. While motorcycles are equipped with turn signals and brake lights, there are situations where hand signals become necessary.
What do bikers say to each other? ›
The "Biker Wave", the greeting between motorcyclists, is well known to us: it is a gesture of recognition, of friendship, which we do because we are part of a community, accomplices even without knowing each other. The basic concept is "Hello two-wheeled brother.
Do bikers have to use hand signals? ›
California Bicycle Law on Hand Signals: What CVC §22108 Means for Cyclists. According to the California Vehicular Code (CVC) §22108, cyclists are required to properly signal to other motorists when they intend to turn. Whether you're going right or left, you must clearly signal at least 100 feet before making the turn.
What do bikers call their passengers? ›
Pillion: A passenger riding on the back seat of a motorcycle. A motorcycle's rear passenger seat is called the pillion seat. Pipes: A motorcycle's exhaust.
How to talk to people while riding a motorcycle? ›
Bluetooth Communication for Motorcycles
Most helmets come with a slot designed for Bluetooth communication. This allows you to attach a headset that connects wirelessly to your phone. You can then use voice activation to dial a call or check the route without taking your hands off the handlebars.
How do bikers communicate on the road? ›
Riding on motorcycles or bikes might make it difficult to talk on the phone and drive safely at the same time. For this reason, a lot of riders decide to get Bluetooth 2 way communication, which is the safest method to communicate with others.
Why do bikers tap their helmets? ›
COPS AHEAD
Simply tap the top of your helmet with your palm, and the riders behind you will know they need to keep a lid on things. You can even give the same warning to other riders that aren't in your group.
How to wave to other motorcyclists? ›
The Wave. Although the nod is acceptable in countries that drive on the right the wave is more commonly used and comes in various forms although the most common is by placing your left hand below your handle bars and stick out your index and middle finger just like the peace sign.
Since motorcycles don't have as many standard built-in signals as other vehicles, it's often up to you to communicate through hand signals to tell other drivers—and the rest of your riding group—what your next move is.
How do bikers say hello? ›
The motorcycle wave isn't just a greeting; it's a cool way for fellow motorcyclists to connect and show respect on the road. Starting with Harley and Davidson, this tradition has grown into a universal language among riders. To put it short and sweet, the wave is simply a way of saying "hello" to your fellow rider.
What do bikers use to talk to each other? ›
Motorcycle intercoms are devices that allow riders to communicate with each other, listen to music, and even make phone calls while riding. Intercoms can be installed in the helmet or attached to the bike itself.
How do bikers salute each other? ›
Titles for this greeting include "Biker wave", "Motorcyclist wave", "Motorcycle wave" or just "The Wave." The greeting made can include a number of gestures including a nod, a pointed finger, palm-out V sign, palm-in fingers-down V sign, or an actual raised-hand wave.
Why do bikers wave with two fingers? ›
According to Cycle World, the two-finger motorcycle wave is often a way of telling your fellow riders to stay safe, BikeBandit explains. Those two fingers pointed down symbolize keeping your bike's two wheels on the ground.
How do bikers greet each other on the road? ›
The motorcycle wave isn't just a greeting; it's a cool way for fellow motorcyclists to connect and show respect on the road. Starting with Harley and Davidson, this tradition has grown into a universal language among riders. To put it short and sweet, the wave is simply a way of saying "hello" to your fellow rider.
What is the signal for bike riders? ›
Signaling and Scanning
- Left Turn: Fully extend your left arm out to the side.
- Right Turn: Fully extend your right arm out to the side or bend your left arm up at a right angle with your hand flat.
- Slowing or Stopping: Extend your left arm out at a right angle with your hand open.
