WDMOC inc. MARSHALLING ON RIDES
Version M001.1. Date 1/5/2025
On regular rides the Club utilises a rolling marshalling method to direct riders along the chosen route.
On all rides there will be a nominated lead rider and a nominated rear rider (tail end Charlie). They are usually identified with Club hi viz vests. The destination of the ride will be made known to all participants before setting off.
When the ride reaches a point where there is more than one direction that can be followed (intersection or fork in the road) the rider directly behind the lead rider will stop and provide direction to the following riders in the group until the rear rider approaches the point, then rejoin the group.
There are a few simple points to be made to ensure that all riders reach the destination safely.
Rider directly behind lead rider marks the turn
If that rider doesn’t stop the next rider marks the turn
Pull up where you can be clearly seen by following riders
Stop in a position that is safe from other road users
Utilise a clear method (indicator, hand signal, etc) to indicate the direction to be taken to avoid confusion
Where possible stop with the bike facing the direction to be taken (make sure you are visible to following riders and in a safe position)
Rejoin the ride when the rear rider approaches and it is safe to do so
Check carefully for any approaching traffic before rejoining
Don’t leave the corner/turn until the rear rider is sighted
If there is a long period without other riders or the rear rider passing, phone the lead rider prior to leaving the corner/turn
If you are the rear rider and an incident occurs that will hold up the ride, phone the lead rider
- To keep the group together a handy technique is to keep track of the rider behind you. If you don’t sight the following rider slow until you do. This will have the effect of bringing the front riders back to the group without the need for a stop to regroup.
- In circumstances where the group gets split up (traffic, very twisty terrain, etc) the lead rider may choose to stop in a safe place to regroup until the rear rider is sighted.
