Just like motorists, motorcyclists have their own ways of communicating with each other. We look at various ways of passing messages, specifically the gesture of tapping the top of the helmet. There is no doubt that this is a fundamental element of communication.
The secret gesture shared by motorcyclists
All over the world, motorcycle riders have a way of sending messages. There is this one where bikers tap hands on their helmets whenever they meet one another.
Together with other messages such as using hands to send a message, these are the most basic hand signals, such as those used for left and right turns, stopping, and greeting other riders as they pass by on the road – these signals are essential for safety and getting the most out of the riding experience.
Just as with verbal communication, the usage of slang language has given new meaning to the left-handed open-palm tapping of the head or helmet.
According to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) training materials, the open-palm helmet tap indicates high-beam headlights.
However, among the majority of riders relaying information about motorcyclist hand signals, the helmet tap indicates the need for caution ahead, most often due to the presence of law enforcement, in much the same way as vehicle drivers (cagers) flash their headlights.
MSN reports that perhaps the MSF verbiage about high beams means the motion is a substitute for flashing the motorcycle’s high beams without actually saying that it
“When participating in a group ride with other motorcyclists, the MSF suggests several common hand signals,” reports the publication based on a chart from MSF.
“While, ideally, your group should discuss the use of hand signals with any new group members, it’s likely that you could encounter the following and be expected to know their meaning.
“Groups usually ride double file, alternating sides of a single traffic lane so as not to ride side-by-side. If road or traffic conditions warrant the need to ride single file, the group leader will raise the left arm straight up with the index finger extended.”
When the conditions improve, the leader will make the same arm motion with two fingers extended. Each rider following behind should relay the signal down the line so that everyone gets the message.
More on hand gestures used by motorcyclists
In addition to the signals such as taking or raising the helmet, it is mentioned that “if you see the rider in front of you extend their left arm while repeatedly opening and closing their hand with spread fingers, it’s an indication to check your turn signal.”
“If your turn signals are not on for no reason, check behind you for the oblivious rider and pass the message along.
“Hand signals for road hazards often warn of dangerous conditions such as damaged road surfaces, debris, or spilled fluids. If the hazard is on the left side, the leaders will point at it with their left hand as they approach and pass it by.”
However, hazards on the right are typically indicated by pointing with the right leg.
Many people wonder if trying to warn oncoming drivers and motorcyclists of speed traps could get them in trouble with the law.
Generally, the practice isn’t illegal per the report and if it was, “we wouldn’t have speed trap warning on Google Maps”.
With that being said, be warned that that gesture may be frowned upon by local law enforcement. While there’s nothing inherently dangerous or distracting about tapping the top of your helmet, flashing high-beam headlights, especially between dusk and dawn, could be grounds for a law enforcement officer to pull you over and possibly issue a citation.