If you’ve just bought a motorcycle and want to find out about the signs used by motorcyclists, you’re probably wondering how to communicate on the road when you’re riding your bike. What is the meaning of the famous “V” sign in the motorcycle world, and how and when to use it? ✌️
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In this article, we’ll go into detail about the famous V sign, widely known and used, but we won’t limit ourselves to that. Here are the topics we’ll be exploring together:
- The different signs to know
- Their meaning
- Communication between motorcyclists
- Communication with motorists 👈 👉
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Once you’ve read this article, you’ll be fully aware of the signs used by motorcyclists when you pass them on your road. You’ll know how to use them yourself to make yourself understood, even when your bike‘s engine is purring loudly, and much more besides. Ready to hit the road? Let’s get started right away!
Biker signs to know
The motards don’t have microphones in their motorcycle helmets to communicate with those around them. What’s more, the use of the horn, headlights or indicators isn’t always clearly interpreted. That’s why the motorcycling community has adopted a universal sign-based language to communicate with each other. 👌👈✌️
When you’re out on the road, you’ve probably already noticed the signs bikers use to communicate with each other. Maybe even your biker friends use them to convey a message to you, but you don’t understand them. Most of these signs are very easy to understand, and for your own safety, it’s best if you know how to recognize them.
Each symbol used by bikers is universal and recognizable by two-wheeler riders (some are also used at motorcycle races). So here’s a list of the signs you need to know:
- The “V”-shaped sign
- The right leg sign
- The sign indicating a right or left turn
- The sign for making a stop
- The sign for accelerating or slowing down
- The sign to signal danger
- The sign to leave the road or make a U-turn
- The sign to refuel
- The sign to warn of a police presence
- The sign to report a headlight problem
- The sign to indicate fatigue
Now let’s look in detail at the meaning of each of these signs and how to use them. 👇
Significations of the Motorcycle Code Signs
A biker’s gesture can’t be improvised, as it represents a particular element. Some gestures are classic, popular and even recognizable by motorists. Others are less well known, but very useful when you find yourself in a group of bikers.
The “V” sign: The Biker Salute
This is a classic and unavoidable gesture, considered the king of motorcyclist signs. Although its origins date back to the 14thth century, its significance within the community comes from a motocross rider. We call it “the biker salute”. Even a non-biker has certainly noticed the “V”-shaped sign that two bikers give each other when they pass each other. It’s a sign of recognition that shows you belong to the biker family. It’s also a simple way of greeting someone who shares the same passion for motorcycling. ✌️
This gesture is universal and symbolizes a feeling of camaraderie or respect towards another biker. It is made by forming a “V” with the index and middle fingers of the left hand. However, the way you do it can vary from one country to another, as well as according to the way you ride. In fact, you can’t lift the left hand that holds the clutch when you’re accelerating. You could quickly put yourself in danger… Similarly, using the right hand is risky, which means you need to be in optimal conditions to do it.
⇒ In what situations should you not use the “V” hand sign? Belonging to the motorcycling community doesn’t mean you can let yourself off the hook by neglecting safety rules. On the contrary, bikers won’t hold it against you if you don’t give them the wave. Even if some may sometimes make an offensive gesture, prioritize your survival and that of your motorcycle.
So, here are the times when you shouldn’t use the “V” sign:
- When you want to use a command: if you want to downshift your speed in a bend or perform a low-speed maneuver.
- When taking turns: concentrate on your crossing. You don’t have to respond or use the sign, no biker will.
Origin of the “V” Biker Sign
In Europe, Barry Sheene is considered the icon of the biker salute, a symbol recognized and used worldwide by the motorcycle community. A legendary rider nicknamed “Lucky Seven”, he was a two-time motoGP (500cc) world champion. He used to salute the public by making the “V” sign, synonymous with victory.
In the United States, this symbol known as the “biker wave” is said to have originated with Harley William and Arthur Davidson. They are the founders of the famous Harley-Davidson motorcycle brand, with which the symbol has been associated since 1904. When the two creators met, they routinely made the “V” sign in recognition, and it quickly became popular. 🏆
During the Hundred Years’ War, the “V” symbol represented the victory of the British over the French. During the Second World War, Winston Churchill used this victory sign against the Nazi army. The hippie “Peace & Love” movement also adopted it, making it a symbol of peace.
The Right Leg Sign: Symbol of Thanks
This is another classic sign, recognizable even by some motorists. It represents a act of thanks to the motorist who makes it easier for the motorcyclist to overtake. It’s by no means a sign of aggression, contrary to what some motorists who don’t yet know the meaning of the gesture think. 🦵
This gesture is characterized by the extension of the right leg off the footrest, keeping it extended for a few moments after overtaking. It’s a much simpler and safer way to give thanks, while keeping your hands on the guidon. However, beginners are advised not to try it in a real situation without training.
Beginners can simply use a headlight call or head movement until they have a good command. This right-leg gesture has been adopted by moto-cross fans after seeing it performed by their idols. If nothing else, it helps avoid road accidents while expressing gratitude.
Biker Signs used in Group
It’s common to see a group of bikers wearing leather jackets on our roads, taking motorcycle rides. With no microphone to communicate with each other, gestures are used for safe riding. In this way, they avoid colliding with obstacles or losing their rhythm. 🤓
The Sign for Turning Right or Left
Although it’s less well-known than the previous two, it’s still useful. It’s the steering gesture used by the motorcyclist. To turn left, simply extend your left arm in that direction, parallel to the ground.
To turn right, we still use the left arm, but this time forming a 90° angle with the closed fist. You can also use the right arm, which maintains the braking, so as not to compromise anything.
The Gesture to Make a Stop
Sometimes you want to signal that you need to stop, after having warmed up the moto properly. This is also the case in the event of a flat tire or some other problem. Simply place the left arm at a 90° angle while keeping the hand open, pointing towards the ground. This is the appropriate gesture. 🖐
Accelerate or decelerate
When you’re in a group, it’s important to maintain a certain pace so you don’t fall behind. To encourage others to speed up, simply point your left arm downwards, palm open, then gesture towards the front of the moto.
To encourage the group to slow down, simply perform the same downward gesture. If one of your counterparts performs this movement, don’t think too hard and slow down…
Signaling a Danger or Obstacle
Whether it’s a pothole or a hole, if the danger is on the left, point your finger at the obstacle. If the hazard is on the right, use your right leg to indicate the obstacle. The headlight call is also used to signal a hazard, accompanying it with the slow-down gesture. 💡
Leaving the road or making a U-turn
If you see a motorcyclist raise his hand and make a circle with his index finger outstretched, it means he wants to make a U-turn. He’s simply asking you to turn around with him if you’re together. However, if you wish to leave the road, point your left arm and use your index finger to indicate the new direction.
The Biker’s Gesture to get supplies
If your tank is empty and you need to stop by the gas station, it’s simple. Just point to your motorcycle’s tank with your left index finger. If you need water, close your fist and wave your thumb towards your mouth. 💦 If you need food, wave your hand from your mouth upwards.
The alert of a police presence
This gesture is used within the framework of the law. It indicates to the group that they are about to encounter police officers. It is performed by tapping the palm of the left hand on the top of the motorcycle helmet. The headlight call is the most commonly used gesture.
Reporting a headlight illumination problem
If a motorcyclist hasn’t turned on his headlights, or if he encounters a headlight ignition problem, he can report it. Simply show the palm of your left hand, then open and close it several times. 👋
Expressing Fatigue
Your weekend walks are exhausting and your eyelids are starting to close. If you want to indicate your fatigue to the group in a simple way, tilt your head slightly to one side and use your arm to simulate a pillow or a lying position. Your friends will quickly get the message!
Keeping up with Biker Gestures
Here’s a summary of what you need to remember to make sure you ride safely and communicate effectively with your friends on your motorcycle outings:
The “V” sign to greet your fellow bikers, the right-leg gesture to thank car drivers who let you pass. Barry Sheene, Grand Prix motorcycle racer and two-time 500cc world champion, is the legend of the ✌️ sign, which symbolizes victory. In motorcycle groups, there are signs to indicate directions, leadership, fuel supply or signal danger. It’s always important to have a motorcycle license and motorcycle insurance, as well as to master these gestures before embarking on any rides!
Now you know perfectly well how to communicate well on the road, so well done! Now we invite you to adopt a true biker style and decorate your bike just right with our biker-friendly skull stickers in our online store!
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