Never push your limits to "keep up," let others pass- if you're worried about holding them back. The "sweep captian" should: be patient and laid back - make sure he knows the destination route - and be there for anyone who's slower.
and very seasoned Chapter Road Captains.
RC does not jump out in traffic with room for only one or 2 or even 3 bikes... the whole group ! The RC should be aware of everyone behind him, and find the best compromise-pace that keeps the group together.
This rider will tend to be the one who (when necessary and traffic conditions allow) will hold traffic at bay (when the group is attempting to turn & merge) -- sometime this may require 2 ride see below.
Sometimes this job may require 2 riders.
- Allow the rider ahead to own his whole lane space, i.e. do not cross his rear tire - especially during curves, but it's okay when slowing into stops. However, unless you have ridden with your fellow rider for a lengthy stack of miles, and can predict his moves like your own-- you shouldn't ride "two-sies" across the lane (despite it being technically illegal in most states).
- Be aware of the rider directly behind at all times. If you can't see the end of the pack, and the guy behind you is gaining distance too-- this is a sure message that something's up. You should also lag back... as the message moves forward the Lead Road Captain will pull over-- and likely send a couple of scouts back to find out what happened.
- Be alert, keep the distance between bikes comfortable but tight, and stay in a predictable track-- best as possible (no swerving, weaving, and changing the staggered formation at random).
He's an over-achiever-- able to leap, backtrack on a 4 lane interstate... and scoop a loosened highway peg in mid bounce- before the truck catch up. We've never lost a part yet. Saddlebag rack, fog light cover, horn cover... his hawk-eye has seen it all go past and retreived it. The Road Captain should NEVER have to worry about this guy - he can watch his back AND everyone elses. Able to hold back any jerk in a car trying to tailgate. NOTE: This guys should have a BIG bike with LOTS of tail lights.
If a car or two merges between the group-- don't sweat it- it's nothing personal. The group ahead can simply slow down -- this car will leave the center of the pack as soon as he gets a break.
Likewise, if the group is merging onto a road or highway-- we can form into a formation, once everyone gets settled in. IDEALLY,
the Sweeper Captain- will be able to merge for the whole group- allowing everyone ahead of him to slide over too.
