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.
