Yarm Motorcycling Club uses the Drop Off system when on group rides.   The Drop-Off system allows riders to safely ride their own ride without having to keep in constant view of each other.

Key Components of the System

• The Leader: The Leader navigates the route and is always at the front. 

• Tail-End Charlie or Sweeper:  The Sweeper is always the last rider in the group.

• The Leader and the Sweeper are the only two riders who maintain their position in the group.

• The Marker (Second Rider): The Marker is the rider immediately behind the leader.  Upon a signal from the Leader, they stop at the junction in a safe, visible spot to indicate the direction others in the group should follow.  

How it Works in Practice

• Briefing: The Leader outlines the route and points out who the Sweeper is and which bike they are on. Take note of this, e.g. the bike’s make, style or colour; or their kit and helmet colour. They will often be wearing Hi-Viz. 

• TIP: You will find it useful to know the total number of riders in the group and, as you set off, to take note of the bike/rider directly in front of you: this is helpful for smoothly re-entering the group after having been dropped off.

• Marking: The Leader will signal to the Marker to stop at junctions that require marking. The Marker stops at the junction in a safe, visible spot to indicate the direction others in the group should follow.  The Marker waits for all other riders to pass, re-joining in front of the Sweeper.  

• Rotation: The position of the Marker, gets rotated from front to back and each rider successively moves up to the front again.   The new Marker should be prepared for a signal from the Leader

• No Marker Rule: Not all junctions will be marked, the assumption is that if you reach a junction with no marker, go straight on.

• Leaving the group: 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 they’ll stop and you can let him/her know you’re leaving the group and why. 

Rules and Tips

• Safety First:  Only stop in safe, legal positions to mark junctions.

• Stay Put: Do not leave the marked junction until the Sweeper arrives.

• Clear Directions: Use hand signals to indicate the direction to following riders.

• Don’t Get Lost: If you miss a turn, make a safe U-turn and catch up, rather than trying to guess the route.

• Built up areas: Built-up areas often have many junctions to mark but also provide an opportunity for riders to compact the group when safe to do so.

• Overtaking: Overtaking is not expected, it can be perceived as judgemental, however, if you feel you are holding up faster riders then do consider waving them past.

• It Works: The method works provided everyone makes clear, safe markings and doesn’t ignore the fact they are in the No.2 position when it’s their turn to mark.

• Be Prepared: Always arrive for a group ride out with a full tank of petrol and an empty bladder.
• Initiative: If you are unsure as to whether you should mark a junction, mark it anyway. It is better to mark a junction that doesn’t need marking than not to mark one that does.
• Last Rider: Nobody, other than the Sweeper is allowed to ride last for any reason whatever.
• Enjoy yourself: Ride your own ride, don’t allow yourself to be pulled or pushed along.  

with thanks to Allan Coverdale for his expertise.