SAFETY AND ACCESS
Rider communication and trail signals
Use brief agreed calls and predictable regrouping without relying on signals that the whole group has not learned.
Reviewed · General UK planning guidance · Check current operator and manufacturer information
Agree before riding
Keep the vocabulary small.
- Define stop, slow, rider down, mechanical and junction regrouping.
- Explain whether verbal calls are passed backward through the group.
- Choose an alternative for riders who may not hear a call.
Use calls carefully
Do not replace observation with shouting.
- Call hazards only when doing so does not compromise bike control.
- Avoid vague or late warnings that may cause abrupt braking.
- Never assume a rider will follow a feature because the leader called it clear.
At junctions and incidents
Accountability matters more than speed.
- Place a rider at an unclear turn until the back marker arrives.
- Move groups away from trail exits while regrouping.
- During an incident, nominate one caller and one person to control approaching traffic where safe.
Useful official guidance
Rules, conditions and services change. Use these sources and the relevant venue’s current information before relying on a plan.
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