Riding a motorcycle is an exhilarating experience, but communication is key to staying safe on the road. While motorcycles come with turn signals and brake lights, there are times when hand signals are a must. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned rider, knowing these hand signals is crucial for group riding and ensuring everyone’s safety.
If you’re touring new areas or renting a motorcycle in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, or Bangalore, these hand signals will help you communicate effectively with other riders and motorists. Always prioritize safety and follow traffic laws!
What Are the Hand Signals for Motorcycle Riders?
Left Turn
Extend your left arm straight out to the side, parallel to the ground. This signal tells others you’re turning left.
Right Turn
Extend your left arm upward at a right angle, with your hand clenched in a fist. This signal indicates a right turn.
Stop
Extend your left arm downward, with your palm facing backward. This signal shows you are coming to a complete stop.
Speed Up
Extend your left arm out to the side, parallel to the ground, and repeatedly raise and lower it. This signal means you want to increase your speed.
Slow Down
Extend your left arm out to the side, parallel to the ground, and repeatedly lower and raise it. This signal means you want to decrease your speed.
Follow Me
Extend your left arm forward or out to the side, palm facing backward, and make a sweeping motion towards the back. This signal tells the riders behind you to follow you.
You Lead
Extend your left arm out to the side, palm facing forward, and make a sweeping motion towards the front. This signal indicates that you want someone else to lead the way.
Road Hazard
If the hazard is on the left, extend your left arm out to the side and point with your index finger. If it is on your right, extend your right foot out. This signal alerts riders behind you to be cautious of an upcoming obstacle or hazard on the road.
Single File
Extend your left index finger and bend your arm towards the sky. This signal tells riders to ride in a single-file formation.
Double File
Extend your left index and middle finger and bend your arm towards the sky. This signal tells riders to ride side by side in a double-file formation.
Comfort Stop
Tap your buttocks with an open palm. Alternatively, extend your left arm out, make a fist, and shake it up and down. This signal indicates you need a brief stop for comfort reasons, like adjusting your position or equipment.
Refreshment Stop
Extend your left arm out, thumb up, and make a motion towards your mouth. This signal shows you need a stop for refreshments, like getting water or food.
The turn signal is On
Open and close your fist. This signal lets other riders or motorists know your turn signal is still active.
Pull Off
Extend your left arm out to the side, point your index finger out, and make a motion toward the side of the road. This signal indicates you want to pull off or stop at the side of the road.
Cops Ahead
Tap the top of your helmet with your open palm or make a circular motion on top of your helmet. This signal alerts fellow riders that there are law enforcement officers ahead.
Fuel Stop
Tap your gas tank with an open palm. This signal shows you need to stop for refuelling.
Practice and Safety
Before hitting the road, practice these hand signals in a safe environment. Always prioritize your safety, follow local traffic laws, and stay aware of your surroundings.
Enjoy the ride and stay safe with these essential motorcycle hand signals!
