Hand Signals

Here are some nifty graphical-type representations of the hand signals we use. They were originally created by a guy called John "Iron Butt" Huber who's with Ann Arbor, MI American HOG. I appreciate them letting us use 'em!

Start Engines

With your right or left arm extended, move your index finger in a circular motion. (This is usually initiated by the ride captain.)

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 to the Left

Extend your left arm at a 45 degree angle and point towards the hazard. Try not to look like you're waving to someone.

Hazard to the Right (A)

Extend your right leg at a 45 degree downward angle to signal the hazard.

Hazard to the 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. (You don't see this signal very often. Snowman uses it occasionally, though.)

Speed Up

This is given by the leader only. Raise your left arm up and down with your index finger extended upwards. 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, with your palm 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 Formation Extend your left arm upward at a 45 degree angle with your index and pinkie finger extended. This indicates that the leader feels it is safe to return to staggered formation.
	Tighten Up Raise your left arm and repeatedly move it up and down in a pulling motion. This indicates the leader wants the group to close ranks.
	Pit Stop Extend your left arm at a 45 degrees. And bend your elbow inward, with your index finger pointing in. This is actually a two fold signal. First, 'My tank is empty', I need to stop for gas. Or Second, 'My tank is full', and I need to stop and take a leak. In either case a 'Pit Stop' is indicated.
	I'm A Bit Upset 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.