When a car passes me with a good amount of space, I give them a thumbs up. They probably wouldn't see me, but the next driver behind sees me and sees I appreciate the previous car's maneuver and they are more likely to remember to give me space.
If a driver has been considerate by waiting to pass until they had clear visibility of the road ahead, I raise my right hand to about shoulder height as they start to pass. That makes sure they see it, and know that I appreciate their behaviour. Politeness to other road users, and showing recognition of considerate behaviour, is really important, as is apologizing if you do something stupid.
As a cyclist I always hold my hand up (like a high five) as the driver is passing so that they can see I appreciate the distance given. As a driver I always give plenty of space and will admit to being guilty of always checking if the cyclist has waved a thanks. Also as a cyclist if I'm on a country road with lots of blind corners, if I notice a build up of 2+ cars that can't safely overtake then I'll pull over and let them past.
@@Shralps positive reinforcement, I know it sticks a bit in my craw thanking someone for doing the bare minimum to not harm me but I suppose it might help. Do we thank other drivers when we drive for not making a shitty overtake, do we do similar tas pedestrians. it's like a 'thanks so much for not putting me in harms way' signal but I'll do it because I think this is the only way to help make things better, even if there's no evidence that it actually does.
@Ronald Belirouti , there is a more visible option. Wave with your road shoulder side hand/arm. This has another advantage - should a motor driver 'jump the gun' and make an unsafe pass into unsee traffic the arm wave will at least let them know you are safe & it is time to make the oncoming traffic safe. However, this latter part should not be seen as reinforcement of unsafe driving.
That's why you slow down to a sensible speed so it won't be a emergency stop. You should only ride as fast as how good your brakes are.(I don't follow any of these actually. I definitely need new brake pads.
As a. British Cycling ride leader communication is key on a guided ride. I have guided a deaf lady on a 20 mile ride using hand signals and had some amazing feedback on how safe and looked after she felt.
One hand signal that I find particularly useful when riding in a group is the "Peace sign" displayed in the small of a rider's back to indicate a railroad crossing. Many times the riders in the back of the line don't see these obstacles and a quick alert is appreciated.
I have a signal for oncoming vehicles, which involves moving my right hand horizontally forward whilst wriggling my fingers. Surprising how many understand and acknowledge.
Really love the chemistry between Hank and Manon! I'm loving this! The video is also very informative, gonna tell me mates about this so next time we gonna use a propper hand signal to point out an obsticle and stuff :D
I tend to point emphatically in the direction I’m turning with my finger rather than vaguely waggling my hand, as pointing is more familiar to drivers, et al. I also point down at an angle as I switch into a turn lane (“I’m going *there*”) and then raise my arm up to signal the turn itself once I’m in the turn lane. I’ve seen other cyclists use those gestures and found them to be the most unambiguous.
The other reason to take the middle of the lane at a junction is to discourage cars from wanting to share your lane while waiting for traffic. It is the same with a motorcycle.
I am old and so can barely turn enough to see behind. Consequently If turning right on a main road. I pull over to the left and cross as a pedestrian. I find that it is amazing how nice good drivers are at over-taking ... if you give a nice thumbs-up for a graceful distance, often they thank you with a flash of their turning signal. On the other hand those that pass six inches from your pedal are not only reckless but don't care about it. My main bike is a 36 year old Carlton ... Love your vids! Best wishes from George
I learnt all of these as a kid when I was at bicycle school, and now I do them all the time without noticing it. This should be taught to every kid at school, not necessarily the group part, but the rest can be life saving (or maybe not, according to some studies... see below). Glad to see the signals are the same on both sides of the Channel by the way :)
no it shouldn't, cycle training hads proven NOT to be effective in keeping people safe. A collation of all school and adult training by Hertfordshire county council found that cycle training had ZERO effect in terms of outcome. it is what motons do that has the biggest effect, signalling does not help, road positioning and WHEN you do it is massively more important. Put more onus onto motorists, not the vulnerable parties. Sorry but the facts regards training not aiding people cycling in terms of safety need to be opened up about and we stop thinking this is going to keep our kids safe, it really doesn't.
@@ynotnilknarf39 Alright I didn't know about these facts, and even though it's obvious that many other factors come into play (especially motorists...), I thought signalling could have a positive impact... So I guess it is negligible then, and the effects boil down to making road users slightly happier and more relax. Thanks for sharing your data and thoughts on the subject :) Yet signalling is a good thing to learn and do (for cyclists and motorists by the way)...
I am 15, and my Dad just bought me a new bike, I'm learning how to be safe on roads, this video is extremely helpful, because i don't quite know how to indicate, but i do now, thank you for sharing this!!❤
I think hand signals vary a bit by country. :) Not exactly the same here in Ontario, Canada. Left hand extended sideways - left turn, hand down - stopping, Left hand up - right turn (alternate, right hand extended sideways) + voice alerts "passing on the left" or "on your left" etc
that alternative hand signal is acceptable in the UK or North America (have lived in both)... basically if you can't remove one hand from the bars, use the other. The problem is that it isn't taught (anymore) to drivers, so our signals are pretty useless to alert them to our intentions.
@@JonPrevost except for many drivers are clueless to the left arm up for right. Depending on your visibility situation the right arm can be the best choice.
That’s the system I was taught in elementary school. Still use it tho I’m never sure if drivers know what’s going on. Biggest one is to always stick my left hand out when 8 have to swerve around a parked car etc. Also why are those guys signaling with their right hands? And why do they all talk so funny?
yeah the alternative right turn signal is much better, in my opinon. i don't do the left hand up to indicate a right turn, and i never teach it to the kids i work with either, because honestly it just looks like you're waving at someone half the time haha. i've always been encouraging ppl to just stick their arm out horizontal and point in the direction they wanna go. gotta shake your hand and index finger in the air a few times to catch driver's attentions.
Informative piece. I’d add when we’re moving at a strong pace, a cyclist would say ‘HEADS UP!’ alerting everyone to look ahead for any sort of obstacle.
In The Netherlands if you hear "VOOR!" (in front) you know you're going to be overtaken pretty soon. Oncoming groups, if they are well-educated you can hear them shouting "TEGEN!" (oncoming), so they'll stay on their side of the bike path (I know, we are pretty spoiled in NL) If I were to take over a group and the rear riders would notice (I would ring of course), they would yell "ACHTER!" (behind), this is a theoretical case for now 😀 I have played with the idea of yelling "TEGEN!" when encountering a group (riding solo), just to make them think I got away from the rest of my group 😝
GREAT VID!!! I'VE BEEN USING SOME OF THESE EVERYDAY!!! Time to use some of the new things I've learned from you guys!!! Love from the Philippines 🇵🇭🇵🇭🇵🇭
Slowing signal in my group is a pat on the lower back with the palm facing rearward and if you put your hand in the air with a bent elbow, here in the States, that means a right-hand turn! Always remember to announce your turns, stops, slows and hazards along with the hand signal!
I use mountain bikes, always have, it was either that or a BMX. I haven't had a bike for a while because I had mine stolen before, but now I have a "new" bike, not to insult it, I am grateful and it is cool, I don't have to worry about breaking tires as much, unlike with others and it's universal so I can use it on or off road.
I road my bike for years and stumbled on GCN on TH-cam and found there information very informative and easy to follow. Downloaded the GCN app and now I’m totally in grossed in the world of cycling! Thanks GCN!!!
In the USA, there are standardized hand signals that cyclists and motorists are supposed to use. There are also turn signal lights available for purchase.
I live in Iowa and I use these hand signals/techniques. Drivers in Iowa are far better than people walking shared bike/walking/running paths. Lots of walkers dazed into their phones and earbuds walking against traffic or oblivious to their surroundings even if I am ringing a bell or calling out to them my approach. My personal favorites are the social distancing walkers. Apparently causing an accident due to blocking pathways is OK provided nobody dies of COVID-19. Sometimes the middle finger is the best signal.
Another option is to duck your head and look under your right arm, especially if you're down on the drops. The view is upside down, but you can see if there's anything there, and you are less likely to turn unintentionally, because your body is not twisted.
I have never seen that signal @5:15 in about 15 years of group riding. However, we do (horizontally) swing our palm towards the direction that we are moving to.
I watched this hoping you could help me with my personal handicap (American cycling in Britain). My wife (English) says I am doing it wrong. I learned to do all signals with my left hand. You didn’t state specifically but it looks like you support my wife’s thought that you should signal with both hands... In Washington state I was taught: (1) Left turn. Left hand and arm extended horizontally beyond the side of the bicycle, (2) Right turn. Left hand and arm extended upward beyond the side of the bicycle, (3) Stop or decrease speed. Left hand and arm extended downward beyond the side of the bicycle.
Another one i use commonly is bringing the arm behind you and then forward to signal to drivers to "go ahead and overtake me, it seems clear." seems to have improved the additude of some of the drivers i encounter when you recognise them and acknowledge you are a bit slower and they can go ahead. Then again i live in a small town so most people know me by my bright blue riding gear at this point.
I try to us hand signals as much as possible. But more to the point of thing sticky out, Manon is sporting a very nice diamond solitaire in this video. Congratulations to her!
ALWAYS carry out a look over your shoulder, also known as " Life saver " before any movement on the road, yes I am a motorcyclist too and I used to drive cars for a living at very fast speeds.
I’m an ebiker who recently had a Mr. Spandex fly by me as close as humanly possible while going up a hill. Caught up to him on the next hill as he was totally gassed. Three junior high school girls were totally impressed as I effortlessly glided up the hill. I’ve got a van moof so they didn’t know it’s electric. I flexed my bicep for them and they waved
Not a hand signal but it’s good to give a shout to other riders you come across if you’re going to pass them. A loud clear “passing on the right” is appreciated (I get passed a lot 🙁)
No thanks, if you are passing me on your right then I don't want you shouting anything, you absolutely as the overtaker need to make sure there's enough of a safe space to get past without impinging on my safety/safety zone. Too often I've seen and experienced chaingangs (and individuals) coming past at speed shouting on your right and sweep past and in far too close. they wouldn't want that from a motorist so why do it to another person on a bike? if you're overtaking another rider just come to the far right of the lane or more if the lane is narrow and/or the rider is riding primary, there's absolutely no need to call out. it comes across that ride leaders call out as they expect other riders to move in a bit IME. I've seen this far too much over the last 15 years, far worse than its ever been, a lot down to the security that helmets bring and reckless/careless riding follows sure as eggs.
A lot of older riders in the States signal a right hand turn by raising their left hand at 90 degree angle to their outstretched upper arm. Goes back to the days when cars did not have turning signals and drivers would signal a left hand turn with their left arm fully extended out the window and a right turn by raising the forearm and hand at the 90 degree angle. I'm wondering if any older Brits do the same thing with their right arms.
Where I live 99.9% of automobile drivers can barely read and dont obey traffic laws, much less know bicycle hand signals. Doh! Still appreciate the content of this vid!
Signaling direction is mandatory in the Netherlands. The same way it is shown in the video, though on my road bike I often point my knee outwards well before the corner instead, as your often take this position in the corner anyways. In my experience this is well understood by other road users as well.
Well produced and useful video. I found a few of the gestures different than what I'm used to seeing in group rides here in California, but the reasons and needs for the signals are probably universal. I've seen different regions here in Cali use all kinds of gestures for upcoming obstacles, and I personally do a little flutter, similar to the slowing gesture, only sideways like a small dust broom. I prefer to yell out obstacles, too when with many riders, because an echelon can often hide the hand signals when not repeated down the line. I can't say that I've ever seen the behind-the-back pointing for moving over being used here, but I rather like the look from behind and think I'm going to try it out sometime. Keep making the great content GCN team.
For roundabouts the new Highway Code rules coming into force mean that cyclists can be in the outside lane the whole way around the roundabout regardless of what exit they want to take, and drivers have to give way for cyclists to do this. Worth noting.
Well yeah, try getting in the right hand lane for a 180 turn and you'll be eating the floor. Always Left lane and when needed take the dominant part of the road. SMACK BANG IN THE MIDDLE.
In the US, the hand up in the air backhand facing other riders is actually a signal to Turn/Merge Right. US only has one signal for slow down, which is the hand down to the side, palm facing riders.
I have learned in the U.S. not to signal a right or a left intention if a car is waiting at a stop or slowing for a turn. If I signal, they take this as a signal to step on the accelerator and cut me off, extremely dangerously. I actually had one car many years ago cut a turn right in front of me at the last second and I landed on the wind screen. Most recently, I signaled a left turn, to a stopped car, at which point they stepped on the gas to cut in front of me. I said a few expletives, they stopped, and it turned out to be my dentist! No more signaling right or left for me. It incites aggressive driving. I do signal thank you's to polite drivers though.
Thanks guys very informative. As first timer biker this will help me alot, regarding when i travel to work. Here in ph we have a very busy street highway. Most of the driver here not driving carefully 😅
It's particularly important for the back of the line to stay attentive. If the back of the line sets up a left turn by taking the the lane before the the lead rider, it is easier/safer on them, as the view isn't as obstructed. Additionally, it's not unusual, where I live, if a car starts to overtake a long line, they will try to complete their pass, even though the cyclists up front are signaling their left turn. That can lead to very dangerous situations.
Signalling a turn means "When the road is clear, I intend to turn." If a car is overtaking you, the road is not clear, so you should not turn. Signalling emphatically does NOT mean "Get out of my way -- I'm turning!" If you start signalling while a car is overtaking, what do you expect them to do? Slow down to your pace and hang out on the wrong side of the road until you're done?
Beeble2003 - Not what I intended. In my experience, cars will sometimes start to pass, after a cyclist has signaled their turn. I think we're agreed(?). You wouldn't do this when a car is signaling; it would be unsafe to do when a cyclist is doing it.
The way I learned hand signals was that you use your left arm only (to keep your right hand available for the rear brake); left arm extended fully out for left turn; left arm out with hand raised at 90 degrees up is right turn; left arm out with hand 90 degrees down is pulling over to a stop
I use an arm extended down with a rotating index finger to indicate to my cycling mates that we are approaching a roundabout if I'm leading the group 😁🚴♂️
For Canada (driving on the right side of the road)... left arm straight out: left turn left arm bent upward at elbow: right turn (alternate sign is right arm straight out) left arm bent downward at elbow: slow/stop pointing a finger downward: pointing out an pothole or obstacle arm down shaking hand with palm parallel to ground: loose gravel on road (hazard in larger area than pointing) hand behind in small of back, arm moving to other side of body: move over>> car on side of road or road narrowing pointing to left without arm extended: giving up pace line lead and moving to back of line (peeling off to the left)-- some say flicking left elbow for this signal-- but I find this a hard signal to pick up. If a car is patiently waiting behind because it isn't safe to pass, and passes later safely I will usually give a friendly wave to the driver as they pass.
i often wave to signal cars behind me to pass when the road ahead is clear. most of the time, the drivers give me plenty of space, and sometimes i get a friendly thumbs up in return.
Great stuff 👍 How about “clear!” when you’re pulling out from a junction and see no vehicles in the distance, or “car!” When there is a car approaching from the opposite direction and people’s sight may be obstructed further back in the group?
I got a tail light with acceleration sensor. It lights up bright when it detects negative acceleration. But it lights up also when on -7% or higher descend too.. always when just tilting bicycle forward 7% or more.
I often need to overtake walking or slow cyclists on a small bike path, I then ring and shout "cyclist, stay right!" or "cyclist, stay left!". Afterwards say "thank you" is just polite
There are two other symbols i know. one for showing single or two person wide groupings (one finger or two fingers pointing to the sky) and a gesture for signalling to get behind (because there is oncomming traffic or obstacles (simmilar to the slowing down gesture, but moving the hand towards and behind your body)
The slowing down wave should be on the side of the road your slowing down at. So as a general rule if you drive on the left side of the road you wave your left arm. And on the right side of the rood its your right arm. Lets say you cross the road to go to a cafe on the other side your first signal with your arm stretched and go in to a wave when you get to the other side.
Be nice to run through a couple more like single and double file, elbow flick pass and a lot of people use a waving hand pointed down to indicate gravel or glass on that side. But good to see you also mentioned using your voice but that can be used at anytime if you're not comfortable removing your hands from the bars.
In the US in the '60s and '70s we were all told to signal a right turn with a left arm up. It was the same for cars, with drivers sitting at the left side of the car. Sometime later it changed to the right arm out
3:49 i think this is the signal for "i just broke wind". notice the face signal that goes along with the hand wave near the offending posterior. The hand wave also serves a second function by agitating the air around the area effectively breaking up the oncoming gas attack.
In Sweden som clubs signal for absolutely for everything and people have not lurn to use their own eyes and look forward I signaling just for big potholes or danger and its work very well with my experience gruppetta. I try always to have a god communication with cars signaling when I want them to slow down or brake or pass me.
Oh Hank you missed a trick here (to the tune of Stealers Wheel stuck in the middle)... Potholes to the left of me, Obstacles to the right, here I am, Stuck in the middle with you....
i always make sure to thank cars that are waiting behind me on narrow roads, blind turns, the like. When the path is clear, I give them a thumbs up and a wave them past.
"Mirror - signal - maneuver" is missing a very important headcheck. Crucial for seeing vehicles and cyclists in their blind spots. A car isn't going to hit you when your 20 meters behind it in their mirrors. It when you 2 meters off their quater panel in their blindspot that the danger occurs.
![เบิ้ล ปทุมราช - สาวสอง ( มีมี่ของอ้าย ) ft. ตาต้า,ต้องเต [OFFICIAL MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/mqlMjnP08XI/mqdefault.jpg)
![ออกพรรษาน้ำตาหล่น - แอน อรดี [OFFICIAL MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/PFZtOcY9ONA/mqdefault.jpg)
What do you think about using hand signals on a ride? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Hi
I like to cut people off
Woooo firet
Yes, absolutely, especially in a group, everyone watches out for everyone. And I have a very special hand signal for very careless drivers.
I recently led my Boy Scout Troop on a bike ride and you’d be surprised how many didn’t know the hand signals.
Car drivers give hand signals to cyclists as well. Sometimes they even stop to tell us how much they like sharing the road.
Often worth recording on Go Pro... 😀
Lol 😂
YOU’RE NUMBER ONE!!
LOL!!!
Hahah good one!
I'm gonna need more than two hands to point out all the hazards on my local roads
Philippines in a nutshell
Same with me here in Indonesia, basically the road is Hazard 😂
I can relate to that, from Hungary
Just point out the good bits of road.
Colorado riders agree
When a car passes me with a good amount of space, I give them a thumbs up. They probably wouldn't see me, but the next driver behind sees me and sees I appreciate the previous car's maneuver and they are more likely to remember to give me space.
This.
Everyone's quick to shout abuse at the bad drivers.
But doesn't show appreciation for the good ones.
If a driver has been considerate by waiting to pass until they had clear visibility of the road ahead, I raise my right hand to about shoulder height as they start to pass. That makes sure they see it, and know that I appreciate their behaviour. Politeness to other road users, and showing recognition of considerate behaviour, is really important, as is apologizing if you do something stupid.
As a cyclist I always hold my hand up (like a high five) as the driver is passing so that they can see I appreciate the distance given.
As a driver I always give plenty of space and will admit to being guilty of always checking if the cyclist has waved a thanks.
Also as a cyclist if I'm on a country road with lots of blind corners, if I notice a build up of 2+ cars that can't safely overtake then I'll pull over and let them past.
@@Shralps positive reinforcement, I know it sticks a bit in my craw thanking someone for doing the bare minimum to not harm me but I suppose it might help. Do we thank other drivers when we drive for not making a shitty overtake, do we do similar tas pedestrians. it's like a 'thanks so much for not putting me in harms way' signal but I'll do it because I think this is the only way to help make things better, even if there's no evidence that it actually does.
@Ronald Belirouti , there is a more visible option. Wave with your road shoulder side hand/arm. This has another advantage - should a motor driver 'jump the gun' and make an unsafe pass into unsee traffic the arm wave will at least let them know you are safe & it is time to make the oncoming traffic safe. However, this latter part should not be seen as reinforcement of unsafe driving.
usually when i need to emergency stop:
"ooohhhhhh SH-"
That's why you slow down to a sensible speed so it won't be a emergency stop. You should only ride as fast as how good your brakes are.(I don't follow any of these actually. I definitely need new brake pads.
@@illuforce It's not quite an emergency stop if you anticipate the emergency stop x)
"Is it a bird, is it a plane?"
"No, it's Manon!" 🤣🤣🤣
Supermanon!
proper bird though
@@Ramoonus very fit
1:22 - I love the way Manon's hand signal so subtly displayed the flash of a diamond
I noticed that, don't recall seeing it before
Blink is been there, she is just good no showing it. and breaking hearts.
Noticed that about a month back on another clip.
damn there go my chances lol
@@secretagent86 I think there would be a very long line of suitors
As a. British Cycling ride leader communication is key on a guided ride. I have guided a deaf lady on a 20 mile ride using hand signals and had some amazing feedback on how safe and looked after she felt.
I absolutely love watching videos of Manon and Hank, they have such amazing chemistry. Also great video, learned a few new signals! Cheers!
I tuned into this one just because it was that pair!
@@renegadetenor same haha
They need to get a room
@@matthewlewis2072 I see what u did there
Just going to say the same that their videos are fun yet informative
One hand signal that I find particularly useful when riding in a group is the "Peace sign" displayed in the small of a rider's back to indicate a railroad crossing. Many times the riders in the back of the line don't see these obstacles and a quick alert is appreciated.
I have a signal for oncoming vehicles, which involves moving my right hand horizontally forward whilst wriggling my fingers. Surprising how many understand and acknowledge.
Really love the chemistry between Hank and Manon! I'm loving this! The video is also very informative, gonna tell me mates about this so next time we gonna use a propper hand signal to point out an obsticle and stuff :D
I tend to point emphatically in the direction I’m turning with my finger rather than vaguely waggling my hand, as pointing is more familiar to drivers, et al.
I also point down at an angle as I switch into a turn lane (“I’m going *there*”) and then raise my arm up to signal the turn itself once I’m in the turn lane.
I’ve seen other cyclists use those gestures and found them to be the most unambiguous.
It's nice to see GCN keeping potential new riders well informed about cycling etiquette. 👍🏽
The other reason to take the middle of the lane at a junction is to discourage cars from wanting to share your lane while waiting for traffic. It is the same with a motorcycle.
Your profile pic got me 1 month later 😂
They look like they have fun. Good team.
Absolutely love the chemistry! Kudos
Slowing down signal looks a lot like an "I just farted" signal.
Also known as "hitting the gas". 🤣🤣🤣
😂😂😂
My misses said the exact same thing! haha
It kind of looks like they are telling the person behind to get closer or to overtake
our old code for that was mentioning they just saw a "tennessee barking spider"
I am old and so can barely turn enough to see behind. Consequently If turning right on a main road. I pull over to the left and cross as a pedestrian.
I find that it is amazing how nice good drivers are at over-taking ... if you give a nice thumbs-up for a graceful distance, often they thank you with a flash of their turning signal.
On the other hand those that pass six inches from your pedal are not only reckless but don't care about it.
My main bike is a 36 year old Carlton ...
Love your vids!
Best wishes from George
I learnt all of these as a kid when I was at bicycle school, and now I do them all the time without noticing it. This should be taught to every kid at school, not necessarily the group part, but the rest can be life saving (or maybe not, according to some studies... see below). Glad to see the signals are the same on both sides of the Channel by the way :)
no it shouldn't, cycle training hads proven NOT to be effective in keeping people safe. A collation of all school and adult training by Hertfordshire county council found that cycle training had ZERO effect in terms of outcome. it is what motons do that has the biggest effect, signalling does not help, road positioning and WHEN you do it is massively more important.
Put more onus onto motorists, not the vulnerable parties.
Sorry but the facts regards training not aiding people cycling in terms of safety need to be opened up about and we stop thinking this is going to keep our kids safe, it really doesn't.
@@ynotnilknarf39 Alright I didn't know about these facts, and even though it's obvious that many other factors come into play (especially motorists...), I thought signalling could have a positive impact... So I guess it is negligible then, and the effects boil down to making road users slightly happier and more relax. Thanks for sharing your data and thoughts on the subject :)
Yet signalling is a good thing to learn and do (for cyclists and motorists by the way)...
In the US, we use different signals. I assume other countries might have their own as well. Jeremy should do a video on it!
I am 15, and my Dad just bought me a new bike, I'm learning how to be safe on roads, this video is extremely helpful, because i don't quite know how to indicate, but i do now, thank you for sharing this!!❤
Manon & Hank best duo on GCN fosure!
I think hand signals vary a bit by country. :) Not exactly the same here in Ontario, Canada. Left hand extended sideways - left turn, hand down - stopping, Left hand up - right turn (alternate, right hand extended sideways) + voice alerts "passing on the left" or "on your left" etc
Same in the US
that alternative hand signal is acceptable in the UK or North America (have lived in both)... basically if you can't remove one hand from the bars, use the other. The problem is that it isn't taught (anymore) to drivers, so our signals are pretty useless to alert them to our intentions.
@@JonPrevost except for many drivers are clueless to the left arm up for right. Depending on your visibility situation the right arm can be the best choice.
That’s the system I was taught in elementary school. Still use it tho I’m never sure if drivers know what’s going on. Biggest one is to always stick my left hand out when 8 have to swerve around a parked car etc.
Also why are those guys signaling with their right hands?
And why do they all talk so funny?
yeah the alternative right turn signal is much better, in my opinon. i don't do the left hand up to indicate a right turn, and i never teach it to the kids i work with either, because honestly it just looks like you're waving at someone half the time haha. i've always been encouraging ppl to just stick their arm out horizontal and point in the direction they wanna go. gotta shake your hand and index finger in the air a few times to catch driver's attentions.
Informative piece. I’d add when we’re moving at a strong pace, a cyclist would say ‘HEADS UP!’ alerting everyone to look ahead for any sort of obstacle.
At 5:24, looked like Hank was giving the finger to traffic. xD
I think hand signals are essential when riding a bicycle.
Thank you for the useful video. ^^
In The Netherlands if you hear "VOOR!" (in front) you know you're going to be overtaken pretty soon.
Oncoming groups, if they are well-educated you can hear them shouting "TEGEN!" (oncoming), so they'll stay on their side of the bike path (I know, we are pretty spoiled in NL)
If I were to take over a group and the rear riders would notice (I would ring of course), they would yell "ACHTER!" (behind), this is a theoretical case for now 😀 I have played with the idea of yelling "TEGEN!" when encountering a group (riding solo), just to make them think I got away from the rest of my group 😝
GREAT VID!!! I'VE BEEN USING SOME OF THESE EVERYDAY!!! Time to use some of the new things I've learned from you guys!!! Love from the Philippines 🇵🇭🇵🇭🇵🇭
Slowing signal in my group is a pat on the lower back with the palm facing rearward and if you put your hand in the air with a bent elbow, here in the States, that means a right-hand turn! Always remember to announce your turns, stops, slows and hazards along with the hand signal!
2:56 I had beans for lunch keep clear
I use mountain bikes, always have, it was either that or a BMX. I haven't had a bike for a while because I had mine stolen before, but now I have a "new" bike, not to insult it, I am grateful and it is cool, I don't have to worry about breaking tires as much, unlike with others and it's universal so I can use it on or off road.
I road my bike for years and stumbled on GCN on TH-cam and found there information very informative and easy to follow. Downloaded the GCN app and now I’m totally in grossed in the world of cycling! Thanks GCN!!!
we don't even need hand signals since drivers don't ever look up from their phones 'round these parts anyways
🤣 It's the same here. And when something does happen, it's always the cyclist who came suddenly out of nowhere.
In the USA, there are standardized hand signals that cyclists and motorists are supposed to use. There are also turn signal lights available for purchase.
Thanks for these type of videos, they are helpful as I train my kids in cycling.
I always get a middle finger wave from people in cars for some reason
Well, it would be impolite not to answer in the same manner, would it?
Smash there mirror. Since they probably don't use it anyway.
LEC illuforce ha😂
@@illuforce you would even be doing them a favour it's quite a bit more aero
I live in Iowa and I use these hand signals/techniques. Drivers in Iowa are far better than people walking shared bike/walking/running paths. Lots of walkers dazed into their phones and earbuds walking against traffic or oblivious to their surroundings even if I am ringing a bell or calling out to them my approach. My personal favorites are the social distancing walkers. Apparently causing an accident due to blocking pathways is OK provided nobody dies of COVID-19. Sometimes the middle finger is the best signal.
I used to not know how to look over my shoulder, I’m so glad I found this video! I’m saved!!
Another option is to duck your head and look under your right arm, especially if you're down on the drops. The view is upside down, but you can see if there's anything there, and you are less likely to turn unintentionally, because your body is not twisted.
@@ceejay0137 The view isn't upside down. Your brain flips it for you.
I use a fist up for stopping. And of course, a pre-ride discussion to make sure everyone agree on the signals
I have never seen that signal @5:15 in about 15 years of group riding. However, we do (horizontally) swing our palm towards the direction that we are moving to.
Car Up and Car Back can be very useful at time no matter what size of group.
I watched this hoping you could help me with my personal handicap (American cycling in Britain). My wife (English) says I am doing it wrong. I learned to do all signals with my left hand. You didn’t state specifically but it looks like you support my wife’s thought that you should signal with both hands...
In Washington state I was taught:
(1) Left turn. Left hand and arm extended horizontally beyond the side of the bicycle,
(2) Right turn. Left hand and arm extended upward beyond the side of the bicycle,
(3) Stop or decrease speed. Left hand and arm extended downward beyond the side of the bicycle.
Another one i use commonly is bringing the arm behind you and then forward to signal to drivers to "go ahead and overtake me, it seems clear." seems to have improved the additude of some of the drivers i encounter when you recognise them and acknowledge you are a bit slower and they can go ahead. Then again i live in a small town so most people know me by my bright blue riding gear at this point.
I definitely need a course in this because I don't know any of this. But all riders should know this
Congrats on the engagements Manon!
I try to us hand signals as much as possible. But more to the point of thing sticky out, Manon is sporting a very nice diamond solitaire in this video. Congratulations to her!
Very useful video since I've just got my new TCR. Thank you GCN!!😊🙏👍👍👍
ALWAYS carry out a look over your shoulder, also known as " Life saver " before any movement on the road, yes I am a motorcyclist too and I used to drive cars for a living at very fast speeds.
My only handsign is the middlefinger to e-bikers ;D
(just jokin)
If I do that its cause I'm envious.
I’m an ebiker who recently had a Mr. Spandex fly by me as close as humanly possible while going up a hill. Caught up to him on the next hill as he was totally gassed. Three junior high school girls were totally impressed as I effortlessly glided up the hill. I’ve got a van moof so they didn’t know it’s electric. I flexed my bicep for them and they waved
@@markfox3083 And he passed you when your battery was dead and you couldnt pedal 50 lb ebike with your weak legs
Not a hand signal but it’s good to give a shout to other riders you come across if you’re going to pass them. A loud clear “passing on the right” is appreciated (I get passed a lot 🙁)
No thanks, if you are passing me on your right then I don't want you shouting anything, you absolutely as the overtaker need to make sure there's enough of a safe space to get past without impinging on my safety/safety zone. Too often I've seen and experienced chaingangs (and individuals) coming past at speed shouting on your right and sweep past and in far too close. they wouldn't want that from a motorist so why do it to another person on a bike?
if you're overtaking another rider just come to the far right of the lane or more if the lane is narrow and/or the rider is riding primary, there's absolutely no need to call out.
it comes across that ride leaders call out as they expect other riders to move in a bit IME.
I've seen this far too much over the last 15 years, far worse than its ever been, a lot down to the security that helmets bring and reckless/careless riding follows sure as eggs.
5:00 Universal face for, "I need to change my bib shorts."
Dabbing in the direction of turn is the only legit way.
A lot of older riders in the States signal a right hand turn by raising their left hand at 90 degree angle to their outstretched upper arm. Goes back to the days when cars did not have turning signals and drivers would signal a left hand turn with their left arm fully extended out the window and a right turn by raising the forearm and hand at the 90 degree angle. I'm wondering if any older Brits do the same thing with their right arms.
You guys work great together. Thanks for the video. Hello from Cali.
Where I live 99.9% of automobile drivers can barely read and dont obey traffic laws, much less know bicycle hand signals. Doh! Still appreciate the content of this vid!
Signaling direction is mandatory in the Netherlands. The same way it is shown in the video, though on my road bike I often point my knee outwards well before the corner instead, as your often take this position in the corner anyways. In my experience this is well understood by other road users as well.
No, signal with your hands. Don't rely on people figuring out that you sitting funny on your bike means you're going to turn.
Well produced and useful video. I found a few of the gestures different than what I'm used to seeing in group rides here in California, but the reasons and needs for the signals are probably universal. I've seen different regions here in Cali use all kinds of gestures for upcoming obstacles, and I personally do a little flutter, similar to the slowing gesture, only sideways like a small dust broom. I prefer to yell out obstacles, too when with many riders, because an echelon can often hide the hand signals when not repeated down the line. I can't say that I've ever seen the behind-the-back pointing for moving over being used here, but I rather like the look from behind and think I'm going to try it out sometime. Keep making the great content GCN team.
New cyclist here. Thanks for the video and great job
For roundabouts the new Highway Code rules coming into force mean that cyclists can be in the outside lane the whole way around the roundabout regardless of what exit they want to take, and drivers have to give way for cyclists to do this.
Worth noting.
Well yeah, try getting in the right hand lane for a 180 turn and you'll be eating the floor. Always Left lane and when needed take the dominant part of the road. SMACK BANG IN THE MIDDLE.
Wow thanks for this!
In the US, the hand up in the air backhand facing other riders is actually a signal to Turn/Merge Right. US only has one signal for slow down, which is the hand down to the side, palm facing riders.
I have learned in the U.S. not to signal a right or a left intention if a car is waiting at a stop or slowing for a turn. If I signal, they take this as a signal to step on the accelerator and cut me off, extremely dangerously. I actually had one car many years ago cut a turn right in front of me at the last second and I landed on the wind screen. Most recently, I signaled a left turn, to a stopped car, at which point they stepped on the gas to cut in front of me. I said a few expletives, they stopped, and it turned out to be my dentist! No more signaling right or left for me. It incites aggressive driving. I do signal thank you's to polite drivers though.
It's also important to have something like a bell on your bike to let people ahead of you to let them know that your coming up to them.
thanks. pretty useful since I'm gonna try cycling on a busy city during this pandemic.
Thanks guys very informative. As first timer biker this will help me alot, regarding when i travel to work. Here in ph we have a very busy street highway. Most of the driver here not driving carefully 😅
It's particularly important for the back of the line to stay attentive. If the back of the line sets up a left turn by taking the the lane before the the lead rider, it is easier/safer on them, as the view isn't as obstructed. Additionally, it's not unusual, where I live, if a car starts to overtake a long line, they will try to complete their pass, even though the cyclists up front are signaling their left turn. That can lead to very dangerous situations.
Signalling a turn means "When the road is clear, I intend to turn." If a car is overtaking you, the road is not clear, so you should not turn. Signalling emphatically does NOT mean "Get out of my way -- I'm turning!" If you start signalling while a car is overtaking, what do you expect them to do? Slow down to your pace and hang out on the wrong side of the road until you're done?
Beeble2003 - Not what I intended. In my experience, cars will sometimes start to pass, after a cyclist has signaled their turn. I think we're agreed(?). You wouldn't do this when a car is signaling; it would be unsafe to do when a cyclist is doing it.
The way I learned hand signals was that you use your left arm only (to keep your right hand available for the rear brake); left arm extended fully out for left turn; left arm out with hand raised at 90 degrees up is right turn; left arm out with hand 90 degrees down is pulling over to a stop
Great video. I usually ride alone, so it’s a good reminder on hand signals to use when I ride with a group.
I use an arm extended down with a rotating index finger to indicate to my cycling mates that we are approaching a roundabout if I'm leading the group 😁🚴♂️
That would be a new experience for me. Love watching the Tour riders do it.
Mark Gibbens that's the one the car drivers return to say you are crazy!
For Canada (driving on the right side of the road)...
left arm straight out: left turn
left arm bent upward at elbow: right turn (alternate sign is right arm straight out)
left arm bent downward at elbow: slow/stop
pointing a finger downward: pointing out an pothole or obstacle
arm down shaking hand with palm parallel to ground: loose gravel on road (hazard in larger area than pointing)
hand behind in small of back, arm moving to other side of body: move over>> car on side of road or road narrowing
pointing to left without arm extended: giving up pace line lead and moving to back of line (peeling off to the left)-- some say flicking left elbow for this signal-- but I find this a hard signal to pick up.
If a car is patiently waiting behind because it isn't safe to pass, and passes later safely I will usually give a friendly wave to the driver as they pass.
i often wave to signal cars behind me to pass when the road ahead is clear.
most of the time, the drivers give me plenty of space, and sometimes i get a friendly thumbs up in return.
Great stuff 👍 How about “clear!” when you’re pulling out from a junction and see no vehicles in the distance, or “car!” When there is a car approaching from the opposite direction and people’s sight may be obstructed further back in the group?
Nice vid. Manon and Hank seem like they'd be great company to ride with (if only I could keep up with them) or have pints with.
I got a tail light with acceleration sensor. It lights up bright when it detects negative acceleration. But it lights up also when on -7% or higher descend too.. always when just tilting bicycle forward 7% or more.
Thanks for the useful signaling
Is that some new bling there Manon? Congratulations 😊
Its always been there. You've just never noticed.
I often need to overtake walking or slow cyclists on a small bike path, I then ring and shout "cyclist, stay right!" or "cyclist, stay left!".
Afterwards say "thank you" is just polite
Love the humor!
There are two other symbols i know. one for showing single or two person wide groupings (one finger or two fingers pointing to the sky) and a gesture for signalling to get behind (because there is oncomming traffic or obstacles (simmilar to the slowing down gesture, but moving the hand towards and behind your body)
Lmfao 5:56
Manon: Gives right turn signal
Hank: “Nice signal Manon, where we going right?”
The slowing down wave should be on the side of the road your slowing down at. So as a general rule if you drive on the left side of the road you wave your left arm. And on the right side of the rood its your right arm. Lets say you cross the road to go to a cafe on the other side your first signal with your arm stretched and go in to a wave when you get to the other side.
Be nice to run through a couple more like single and double file, elbow flick pass and a lot of people use a waving hand pointed down to indicate gravel or glass on that side. But good to see you also mentioned using your voice but that can be used at anytime if you're not comfortable removing your hands from the bars.
These should be in the highway code. Great video guys!
Favorite presenters as always! 🚴🏽♂️💙
In the US in the '60s and '70s we were all told to signal a right turn with a left arm up. It was the same for cars, with drivers sitting at the left side of the car. Sometime later it changed to the right arm out
@Colin Deal It was like 20 or more years after that time
Great, a couple I didn't know like the hand behind you back for parked cars 🙂
3:49 i think this is the signal for "i just broke wind". notice the face signal that goes along with the hand wave near the offending posterior. The hand wave also serves a second function by agitating the air around the area effectively breaking up the oncoming gas attack.
These 2 are great together
Gcn makes anything interesting
Good job gcn
Nice camera shots!
In Sweden som clubs signal for absolutely for everything and people have not lurn to use their own eyes and look forward I signaling just for big potholes or danger and its work very well with my experience gruppetta. I try always to have a god communication with cars signaling when I want them to slow down or brake or pass me.
Oh Hank you missed a trick here (to the tune of Stealers Wheel stuck in the middle)...
Potholes to the left of me,
Obstacles to the right, here I am,
Stuck in the middle with you....
The new kit looks super cool, great job!
Eh. I don't get why so many cyclists want to wear ninja black.
i always make sure to thank cars that are waiting behind me on narrow roads, blind turns, the like. When the path is clear, I give them a thumbs up and a wave them past.
The Hank and Manon Show - comedy duo 😅👍🏻
Nice video; more close-up cut-ins could be cool to add; e.g. on Manon’s reaction when Hank yells “hole!”
😨
Thank you so much!!
More vid with manon and hanks please, they are very entertaining and have a nice chemistry
This was super helpful, thanks.
Very useful , thankyou
"Mirror - signal - maneuver" is missing a very important headcheck. Crucial for seeing vehicles and cyclists in their blind spots. A car isn't going to hit you when your 20 meters behind it in their mirrors. It when you 2 meters off their quater panel in their blindspot that the danger occurs.