Hand Signals

Motorcycle hand signals are important for all riders to know and understand but especially when riding in a group. (When riding in a group the signals should be relayed back through the group.)

START ENGINES With your right or left arm extended, move your index finger in a circular motion.

LEFT TURN Raise your left arm horizontal with your elbow fully extended.

RIGHT TURN Raise your left arm horizontal with your elbow bent 90 degrees vertically.

HAZARD LEFT Extend your left arm at a 45 degree angle and point towards the hazard.

HAZARD RIGHT A Extend your right arm at a 45 degree angle and point towards the hazard.

HAZARD RIGHT B Extend your left arm upward at a 45 degree angle with your elbow bent to 90 degrees and point towards the hazard over your helmet.

SPEED UP Raise your left arm up and down with your index finger extended upward.  This indicates the leader wants to speed up.

SLOW DOWN Extend your left arm at a 45 degree angle and move your hand up and down.

STOP Extend your left arm at a 45 degree angle with the palm of your hand facing rearward.

SINGLE FILE Position your left hand over your helmet with your fingers extended upward.  This indicates the leader wants the group in a single file formation. Usually this is done for safety reasons.

STAGGERED   or  SIDE-BY-SIDE FORMATION Extend your left arm upward at a 45 degree angle with your index and pinkie finger extended. This indicate that it is safe to return to staggered formation.

TIGHTEN UP Raise your left arm and repeatedly move up and down in a pulling motion.  This indicates the leader wants the group to close ranks.

TICKED OFF Extend your left arm straight out with your elbow bent 90 degrees. Carefully extend your middle finger to clearly demonstrate your dissatisfaction with the other guy. NOTE: It is not recommended you do this when you are alone.