Lesson 20 - Cycling Hand Signals & Communication
🎓 BOOTY BUTTER ACADEMY | LESSON 20 Cycling Hand Signals & Communication
One of the easiest ways to become a safer cyclist is to communicate clearly.
Whether you're riding with friends or sharing the road with motorists, good communication helps everyone know what you're about to do.
The more predictable you are, the safer everyone will be.
👋 1. Point Out Hazards
See a pothole, gravel, broken glass or debris? Point to the hazard as you ride past so the riders behind you know what to avoid.
A simple hand signal can prevent punctures and crashes. Remember, point to the side of the hazard—not directly at it—so riders know which way to pass safely.
✋ 2. Signal Before You Turn
Just like driving a car, cyclists should indicate before changing direction.
Use clear hand signals before:
🗣️ 3. Use Your Voice
Hand signals are great, but your voice is just as important.
Common calls include:
.
👀 4. Make Eye Contact
Never assume a driver has seen you. At intersections, roundabouts and driveways, try to make eye contact with drivers before crossing their path.
If you're unsure they've seen you, wait. It's always better to lose a few seconds than risk an accident.
🚴 5. Ride Predictably
One of the safest things you can do is be predictable. Avoid:
💗 Bonus Tip
Communication isn't just about safety—it's about courtesy. A friendly wave to a driver who gives you space or a quick "thanks" to another rider helps create a more positive cycling community.
Kindness goes a long way.
Remember...
The best cyclists aren't just skilled riders—they're great communicators.
Clear signals. Clear calls. Clear intentions.
They all help everyone get home safely.
💗 Ride Comfortable. Ride Confident. Ride Further.
💡 Coach Booty Says "Don't assume people know what you're thinking. Let your hands and your voice do the talking!"
⭐ Gold Star Tip If you're new to group riding, practise your hand signals and voice calls on quieter rides first. The more natural they become, the more confident you'll feel when riding with others.
❓ Question of the Week Which hand signal or rider call do you use the most?
👋 Pointing out hazards
↩️ Signalling a turn
🗣️ Calling "Car back!"
🚴 Giving a friendly wave Or do you have another favourite?
🎓 Next Week at Booty Butter Academy...
Lesson 21 – Reading the Road
You'll learn how to:
Whether you're riding with friends or sharing the road with motorists, good communication helps everyone know what you're about to do.
The more predictable you are, the safer everyone will be.
👋 1. Point Out Hazards
See a pothole, gravel, broken glass or debris? Point to the hazard as you ride past so the riders behind you know what to avoid.
A simple hand signal can prevent punctures and crashes. Remember, point to the side of the hazard—not directly at it—so riders know which way to pass safely.
✋ 2. Signal Before You Turn
Just like driving a car, cyclists should indicate before changing direction.
Use clear hand signals before:
- Turning left
- Turning right
- Moving around parked cars
- Changing lanes
🗣️ 3. Use Your Voice
Hand signals are great, but your voice is just as important.
Common calls include:
- "Car back!" – Vehicle approaching from behind.
- "Car up!" – Vehicle approaching from the front.
- "Stopping!" – Coming to a stop.
- "Slowing!" – Reducing speed.
- "Hole!" – Pothole ahead.
- "Gravel!" – Loose surface.
.
👀 4. Make Eye Contact
Never assume a driver has seen you. At intersections, roundabouts and driveways, try to make eye contact with drivers before crossing their path.
If you're unsure they've seen you, wait. It's always better to lose a few seconds than risk an accident.
🚴 5. Ride Predictably
One of the safest things you can do is be predictable. Avoid:
- Sudden swerving.
- Unexpected braking.
- Riding erratically.
- Weaving through traffic.
💗 Bonus Tip
Communication isn't just about safety—it's about courtesy. A friendly wave to a driver who gives you space or a quick "thanks" to another rider helps create a more positive cycling community.
Kindness goes a long way.
Remember...
The best cyclists aren't just skilled riders—they're great communicators.
Clear signals. Clear calls. Clear intentions.
They all help everyone get home safely.
💗 Ride Comfortable. Ride Confident. Ride Further.
💡 Coach Booty Says "Don't assume people know what you're thinking. Let your hands and your voice do the talking!"
⭐ Gold Star Tip If you're new to group riding, practise your hand signals and voice calls on quieter rides first. The more natural they become, the more confident you'll feel when riding with others.
❓ Question of the Week Which hand signal or rider call do you use the most?
👋 Pointing out hazards
↩️ Signalling a turn
🗣️ Calling "Car back!"
🚴 Giving a friendly wave Or do you have another favourite?
🎓 Next Week at Booty Butter Academy...
Lesson 21 – Reading the Road
You'll learn how to:
- Spot hazards before you reach them.
- Read changing road conditions.
- Anticipate what other road users might do.
- Ride more smoothly, safely and confidently.
