Best Motorcycle Hand Signals Chart of 2021 – Complete Round-up

It’s no secret that riding motorcycles can be exhilarating, to say the least, and what could be even better than sharing this pleasure with family or friends?

Nonetheless, the dynamics of riding get more complicated with the increasing number of motorists.

Therefore, knowing the motorcycle hand signals chart (that we’ll delve into) is crucial for any rider. It’s a great way of communicating with other motorists and makes all the difference in keeping you safe from hazards on the road.

Motorcycle Hand Signals 101

As a means for conveying simple messages on the road, motorcycle hand signals are a necessity for riders to know and other motorists that share the road with them.

If you’re in a vehicle that’s trailing a motorbike, it’s important to understand what they are trying to communicate to you. They could be warning you of a dangerous situation ahead, stopping, or turning. It’s worth noting that all hand signals are used on the left side of the car you’re in.

When Would Hand Signals Come In Handy?

Motorcycle hand signals are useful in the following scenarios.

When Traveling in Groups

When riding as a group, each member should be well aware of the hand signals. The leading rider has the responsibility of bringing the group to the destination in the safest way possible.

Therefore, they’ll need to perform most of the motorcycle hand signals, and the members must keep an eye on the front of the pack.

The gesture from the leader will spark a chain reaction to the tail biker. In large groups, the bikers will use hand signals to relay messages for the riders at the back to follow.

When Your Bike Lacks Turn Signals

By using motorcycle hand signals to alert traffic instead of the turn signals of your bike, you help curb accidents that could otherwise be fatal. Hand signals are a foolproof way of providing enhanced safety and visibility on the road.

When Riding With a Friend

Motorcycle hand signals are an excellent way of communicating with a fellow rider who also happens to be your friend. For instance, you can warn them of a potential hazard or if the cops are a couple of miles down the road waiting to give a speeding ticket.

Motorcycle Hand Signals Chart

The chart below sums up the motorcycle hand signals that promote the safety of riders and other motorists on the road and prevent accidents.

What Are the Proper Hand Signals For Riding a Motorcycle?

Here’s a breakdown of the ideal hand signals that every rider should know to improve their safety.

What is the Arm Signal For a Left Turn?

Upon making a left turn, extend your left arm out while pointing your palm downwards. It’s a motion that’s easy to grasp given that you’re making a left turn and using your left hand to signal that direction.

What Does The Finger Circle Mean?

The ‘Okay’ sign. By making a circle with your index finger and thumb while your other three fingers are extended, you’re signaling that you’re okay and asking if the other rider is as well.

What Does The 3 Finger Hand Sign Mean?

What is the Hand Signal For Stopping or Slowing?

To signal that you’re stopping, extend your left arm and fingers while ensuring they are pointing down and your palm is facing rearward. It’s the universally accepted signal that you’re decelerating, and other motorists should intuitively comprehend it. Keep your arm in this position until you fully come to a halt.

What is the Hand Signal For Stop?

Refreshment Stop

It’s used to indicate your intention to stop at a restaurant or gas station. You’ll make a ‘thumbs up’ signal with your left hand while gesturing toward the front of your helmet or mouth as though your thumb is a straw poking out of a glass.

Comfort Stop

Indicate it by poking your arm out to the left and shaking your fist using short upward and downward gestures as though you’re shaking a bottle. Remember to make this stop only when the shoulder or road is free of debris and there’s ample room to pull over.

What is the Hand Signal For Right Turn?

Use this sign to signal other motorists that you’re turning right. It can also be used to break from or lead other riders if you’re riding in a group. To indicate a right turn, simply tilt your elbow to a 90-degree angle, clench your fist and point it at the sky.

What is the Arm Signal For Speed Up?

With your arm extended to a 180-degree angle, your palm facing down, and an upward swing, you can signal your fellow riders to pick up the pace and keep up with you. The speed-up signal is essential for inexperienced bikers to avoid being left behind as the group increases the pace.

What Are Rider Courtesy Hand Signals?

Courtesy signals are not required but are more of a way to communicate with fellow riders. 

Cops Ahead

Give your fellow riders a heads up about police activity a couple of miles up the road by gently tapping the top of your helmet with your left palm.

Turn Signal On

Let another rider know that the left blinker of their motorcycle is on by making a ‘blinking’ gesture using your left hand while alternating between making a fist and extending your fingers.

Cautious Considerations to Keep in Mind 

Even as you use a motorcycle hand signals chart to improve your safety and that of other riders on the road, consider the following considerations.

Comfort is Key

As essential as it is to be in sync and coordinate with your group of riders, it’s equally important to avoid riding beyond your abilities. Remember, you don’t have to match a leader setting a fast pace because your safety comes first, so feel free to slow down to a speed you’re comfortable with.

Information

Before you begin a group ride, everyone must be familiar with the destination. Inevitably, the group may get separated, so it’s important to discuss where you’re going, the designated stops you’ll make, and what to do if you get separated. 

Furthermore, exchange phone numbers and ensure the latest plan is clear every time the group starts.

When ideal signaling is crucial to safety, for instance, during track days or group rides, important hand signals must be communicated during pre-ride meetings.