Riding standards

DRAFT FOR RAPID REVIEW. To be checked against the RAPID syllabus and coaching documents before launch.

Every tour we run is on public roads, shared with people who are not part of it. A tour is coached riding. It is not a race, a rally or a test of speed. These standards apply to every rider on a RAPID tour, and you agree to them when you book.

1. The law comes first

• Keep to the speed limit and the road traffic law of the country you are in, at all times.
• No racing, no timing and no competition between riders, on any part of any route. That includes the Mountain Course when the roads are open.
• Any fine, penalty or prosecution for how a bike is ridden belongs to its rider.

2. Ride your own ride

• You are in charge of your own bike. Ride at a pace you are comfortable with and never faster than is safe for the road, the weather and the traffic.
• You are never required to keep up. The group regroups at the stops, and nobody is left behind.
• Coaching is advice. The coach may ride ahead, alongside or behind you and will debrief at the stops. Take what helps.
• Overtake other riders in the group only where it is legal and safe. Do not pressure the rider in front.
• Leave gaps so that other traffic can overtake and pull in. We do not ride as a convoy and we do not hold other road users up.

3. You and your bike

• Riders must be 18 or over and hold a full motorcycle licence valid where the tour takes place. Carry it.
• The bike must be insured for you to ride it, taxed, with a valid MOT where one is required, and roadworthy, with legal tyres and working lights.
• Wear a helmet that meets the legal standard, and protective clothing suitable for the riding. We recommend full protective kit on every ride.
• Start each day with enough fuel for the first leg.

4. Alcohol and drugs

• No alcohol before or during a day's riding. Your first drink is after the bike is parked for the night.
• Never ride under the influence of drugs, including prescribed medicine that affects your riding.
• Be fit to ride the next morning.

5. Phones and cameras

• Do not use a phone while riding. Helmet intercoms are for navigation and safety calls only.
• Cameras fixed to the bike or helmet must be secure. Do not adjust them while moving.

6. Other people

• Slow down and give room to walkers, cyclists, horse riders and livestock.
• Pass through villages quietly. No hard acceleration or revving near homes or the hotel.
• Park where the lead coach or the venue asks.

7. Briefings and the lead coach

• Be at the riders' briefing at the start of each day.
• Follow the lead coach's instructions on safety. The lead coach may change the route or stop the ride for weather, road conditions or safety.

8. If something goes wrong

• In a breakdown or collision, stop somewhere safe, call the emergency services if anyone is hurt or the road is blocked, and tell the lead coach as soon as you can.
• Exchange details and report the collision as the law requires.
• Your breakdown cover recovers your bike. The group will not leave you without knowing you are safe.

9. Pillions

• A pillion must be 18 or over, or travel with a parent or guardian on the same booking, and must wear a helmet and protective clothing.
• The rider is responsible for their pillion.

10. If these standards are broken

The lead coach will speak to the rider. If a rider seriously or repeatedly breaks these standards, or puts other people at risk, the lead coach may require them to leave the tour there and then. No refund is due, and we may refuse future bookings from that rider.