Hand Signs

[30milespersandwich]

Does any one know what the proper hand sign is to let a cyclist know I see him and he/she can pass. I'm not as fast as most riders and when they come up from behind I would like to let them know I see them and they can pass. Thanks

[DaveB]

Actually it's the responsibility of the overtaking rider to be sure they pass safely, not yours. They will often announce "on your left" to let you know they are passing and so you are aware of them. 

If you want to be courteous and ARE CERTAIN there are no passing motor vehicles that would endanger the passing rider, a sideways wave (sort of "come on") of your left hand is the usual signal you want them to pass.

BTW, I'm leery of using "on-your left" announcements on some mass rides or on Rail Trails. There are so many inexperienced and inept riders there that their response is often to veer to the left which is exactly what you DON'T want them to do.

[indyfabz]

BTW, I'm leery of using "on-your left" announcements on some mass rides or on Rail Trails. There are so many inexperienced and inept riders there that their response is often to veer to the left which is exactly what you DON'T want them to do.

Heh. Yesterday I was riding home during a three-day and on a busy MUP. Said "On your left" and the person moved left. Also, manny users don't hear you anyway because they have the music turned up.

[John Nelson]

Does any one know what the proper hand sign is to let a cyclist know I see him and he/she can pass.

There is no "proper" hand sign, but the first one everybody immediately thinks of will work just fine. I don't see much of a need for it however unless they are annoying you by being behind you. They might even prefer to be behind you.

[rondickinson]

30milespersandwich

I like your name.

I could also think about:

Miles per beer.

[30milespersandwich]

I have riders all the time come up from behind and they say on your left, I just want to let them know I see them and I'll keep to the right. Right now I'm thinking of a thumbs up with my left hand.

Thanks for the name. If you Google it you'll find my blog. Not much there right now but it's how I'm planning to let my friends know how I'm doing and where I'm at. I'm riding to San Diego this summer.