A planning method proposed by MotoLert, with a fictional example. It does not replace group-riding training. Local road rules and conditions take priority. MotoLert is in preparation for iPhone.
Key points
Key takeaways
- Share precise meeting places, not just a town name.
- Prepare a shorter option and a fallback without mobile coverage.
- Separate group organisation from individual navigation.
Before plotting a route
Agree on the kind of ride everyone wants
Start with constraints: return time, usual fuel range, experience and breaks. A proposal such as 'meet at 9, return before 4, lunch together' gives everyone something concrete to discuss. Sending a route without context leaves these decisions unstated.
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation recommends a pre-ride briefing, lead and sweep riders, and a regrouping procedure. It also advises against breaking road rules or riding beyond your ability to catch up.
Sources: MSF: preparing a group ride
Our planning template
A departure sheet that fits in a message
Write one dated plan and ask everyone to confirm they have it. This fictional organisation example needs real, checked locations; it is not a suggested road route.
| Item | Fictional example to adapt |
|---|---|
| Meeting point | 9 am, permitted parking: specify the address and exact entrance |
| Departure | 9:20 am, after the briefing |
| Stop A | Checked location, with the address saved by every rider |
| Lunch | Booking and parking confirmed before departure |
| Short option | Direct return from stop A if the plan changes |
| Contact | Someone reachable during stops |
A route everyone can check
Share waypoints, then review the result in each app
Two apps may suggest different roads between the same addresses. Share important stops in order and compare the maps while stationary. If sharing a file, check that each app can read it and that the result matches your intended route.
Separate necessary stops from optional detours. A fuel stop the group needs should not disappear because an alternative route is shorter. Check access, opening hours and closures with the relevant places before departure.
The fallback plan
Agree beforehand on what happens if the group splits
Put the rule on the departure sheet: for example, continue to the agreed meeting point and send a message only after stopping safely. Also decide what could change the programme, such as weather, delays or fatigue. A shared decision avoids inventing a new instruction at the roadside.
Do not treat a frozen map position as evidence that someone is waiting there. Without a recent update, their location may be old. Keep addresses available without a connection and agree how to tell the group if you leave early.
Final check
Six things to confirm before riding
This checklist concerns organisation. Check the motorcycle and riding kit according to their instructions and the conditions.
- Everyone knows the exact departure time and place.
- Waypoints and the return journey have been checked on each phone.
- Fuel and timing constraints are included.
- Meeting points remain accessible without a live map.
- Everyone understands the separation procedure.
- The shorter option and early-departure procedure are clear.
Tools after planning
What MotoLert is preparing for group rides
MotoLert plans motorcycle guidance and live group locations with Premium. Live locations require a connection. The app can support an agreed plan; it does not replace meeting points, briefings or each rider's decisions. Its garage also brings maintenance information together before future rides.
Verification
References
The information cited was checked on 30 September 2026. Rules and services may change after this date.
- Motorcycle Safety Foundation: Group RidingBriefing and separation guidance; check local road rules separately.
- MotoLertAnnounced features and app availability.