Hand Signals

Have you always wondered what the Road Captain is trying to tell you when he starts waving his arms while leading a group ride? If so, you might find this useful.

Here are some of the basic hand signals used by Road Captains. Often, you'll also see others in the group repeat the signal for those further down the line.

(Note: These images were found on another web site somewhere. Thanks to whoever created them!)

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.	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 arm over your helmet with your index finger extended upward. This indicates the leader wants the group in a single file due to narrow road, bicyclists, pedestrians, etc.	Staggered: Extend your left arm upward at a 45 degree angle with your index and pinkie finger extended. This indicates that it is safe to return to a staggered formation.
Hazard Left: Extend your left arm at a 45 degree angle and point towards the hazard. This indicates there is a hazard, such as pot hole, piece of junk, or road kill, on the left hand side.	Hazard Right: Extend your right leg out at a 45 degree angle to indicate a hazard on the right. This indicates there is a hazard, such as pot hole, piece of junk, or road kill, on the right hand side.	Start Your Engines: With your right or left arm extended, move your index finger in a circular motion.
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 (reduce the distance between bikes).	Pissed Off: Extend your left arm straight out with your elbow bent 90 degrees. Vigourously extend your middle finger to clearly demonstrate your dissatisfaction with the other guy.