A major part of being a responsible motorcyclist is knowing how to stay safe on the road. Motorists and fellow riders need to know which actions you intend to complete next, and where you're planning to go. This way, they can allow you plenty of room to turn, stop, change lanes, or perform any other maneuver you need to.

While most motorcycle hand signals are fairly intuitive, they can be a little complicated for new riders to understand. Today, we're breaking down the basics and sharing the most commonly used ones so you can get started in confidence.

Why Are Motorcycle Hand Signals Important?

Most riders learn simple hand signals as part of their motorcycle license exams. They are essential to safe motorcycle riding. Whether you enjoy riding motorcycles in a group or heading out solo, you need to know how to communicate with those around you.

According to the traffic laws in most states, motorcycles are now required to be equipped with the following safety features:

• At least one headlight
• One taillight
• One brake light
• Registration plate light
• Turn signal lights
• Rear reflectors

However, this isn't the case in every state. In addition, models built prior to 1973 might not have these features at all. That was the year the federal government began requiring electric turn signals on the front and rear of all motorcycles.

Even if you're not driving a vintage series, it's still a good idea to use hand signals in combination with the safety features on your bike. They tell others around you what you're going to do next, which can help prevent an accident from occurring. In this way, hand signals are just as important to your safety as gloves, jackets, and helmets are.

Let's take a look at a few of the top ones to remember, starting with hand signals for turns.

Turning Left

When you're riding with a group and you need to let the others know you're turning left, extend your left arm straight out with your palm facing down.

You can use this signal when you're at the front of the group, leading other riders toward a destination. If you're following in the middle, you can use it to signify that you're going to break away from the group.

Turning Right

Want to let others know you're turning right?

To do so, bend your left elbow at a 90-degree angle. Then, clench your fist and point it upward toward the sky. You can use this signal when leading or breaking away from a group.

Speeding Up

To keep pace with other riders and motorists on the road, it may be necessary to increase your speed. To signify that you're doing so, extend your left hand and swing your palm in an upward motion. This tells the others in your group to match your pace.

Slowing Down

The hand signal for slowing down is the opposite of speeding up. To alert others that it's time to reduce their pace, extend your left arm and swing your palm downward, facing the ground.

Stopping

When you're riding motorcycles with friends, it's important to make sure everyone is performing the same action. If the leader speeds up, everyone speeds up. Likewise, if the leader stops, everyone in the group should also stop, from the very first rider to the very last.

If you're at the front and need to send this signal, bend your left elbow at a 90-degree angle. Keep your palm facing outward and your fingers pointed toward the ground. Note that this is the opposite of the signal used to turn right, though your fist is not clenched.

Assigning a Lead Rider

Leading a motorcycle group is a big responsibility and you need to ensure everyone stays together. If a new rider is taking over this position, they should extend their left arm forward at the shoulder, facing their palm outward. This signal can also be used when a small group is breaking away from a larger one.

Alerting to a Hazard on the Road

Did you spot a hazard on the road while riding your motorcycle? This could be anything from a slippery surface to a piece of debris. If riders are aware of it before they come upon it, they can safely navigate around it.

When you come upon the hazard, let others around you know by extending your left arm. Then, point your index finger and right foot toward the ground.

Motioning for Someone to Follow

There may be times when you need to command a fellow rider to come and follow you on the road. Or, you may need to tell another rider that you intend to follow their lead. The hand signal is the same for both.

First, maneuver your motorcycle directly beside the rider you need to communicate with. Then, use your left index finger to point to their bike. Next, swing your arm forward toward yourself.

You can repeat this motion as much as you need to until the other rider understands your intent.

Stopping for Gas

Need to refuel? First, extend your left arm. Then, point to the gas tank on your bike with your left index finger.

Riding Single File

If you need to tell your group that it's time to line up in a single-file formation, the signal is relatively straightforward. Bend your left elbow slightly and point your left index finger toward the sky. To anyone riding behind you, this looks like you're saying "create one line".

Riding Double File

If you have room on the road to spread out, you can alert the group that it's time to ride double-file. Bend your left elbow at a 90-degree angle, then point the index finger and middle finger on your left hand toward the sky.

Pulling Off

This turn signal indicates to your group that it's time to pull off the highway, either right away, or at the next exit. To make it, extend your left arm outward and point your left index finger. Then, swing your arm upward toward your head.

Use These Motorcycle Hand Signals

As you ride your motorcycle and enjoy the company of your fellow riders, don't forget to stay safe.

These motorcycle hand signals are a great way to communicate over the noise of the roadway. The more you practice them, the easier they will be to remember. Another component of rider safety is outfitting yourself properly before you head out.

At Xtreme Helmets, we offer a variety of gear designed to promote safe riding. From helmets and jackets to boots and rain protection, you'll find it all with us. Create an account today to find and save your favorites!