Uploaded January 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Group riding can be one of the most enjoyable parts of motorcycling — but it also carries serious risks that many riders underestimate.
In this episode of Better Riding, Michael Mann is joined by expert riding coach Mark McVeigh to challenge long-held group riding advice, including staggered formations, close spacing, and keeping up with the pack.
Drawing on real-world crash examples, aviation-style risk management, and decades of rider coaching experience, Mark explains:
• Why traditional group riding formations often fail
• How peer pressure and mixed abilities increase risk
• The importance of the safety bubble over fixed spacing
• Why even elite riders feel more anxious riding in groups on the road
• Practical tips for safer group rides, communication, and pre-ride planning
Whether you ride with one other biker or in large organised groups, this episode could change the way you ride — and help you get home safely.
👇 Let us know your experiences with group riding in the comments.
👉 Powered by Honda Motorcycles UK
👉 Part of the Better Riding series from Bennetts BikeSocial, find them all here: bennetts.co.uk/bikesocial/news-and-views/advice/biking-tips
👉 Mark can be found at motorbikecoach.com
CHAPTERS
00:00 – Why group riding deserves serious attention
01:05 – What this episode will cover
02:10 – Why Mark fears unknown group rides
03:20 – Real-world group riding crash examples
05:00 – Why staggered formations don’t work
09:07 – The “safety bubble” explained
10:40 – Overtaking: the biggest group riding danger
12:10 – Pre-ride briefings, communication, signals, and regrouping points
18:00 – Why track riding feels safer than road group rides
19:30 – Final thoughts: rethink group riding
21:15 – What’s coming next: trail braking explained
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Group riding can be one of the most enjoyable parts of motorcycling — but it also carries serious risks that many riders underestimate.
In this episode of Better Riding, Michael Mann is joined by expert riding coach Mark McVeigh to challenge long-held group riding advice, including staggered formations, close spacing, and keeping up with the pack.
Drawing on real-world crash examples, aviation-style risk management, and decades of rider coaching experience, Mark explains:
• Why traditional group riding formations often fail
• How peer pressure and mixed abilities increase risk
• The importance of the safety bubble over fixed spacing
• Why even elite riders feel more anxious riding in groups on the road
• Practical tips for safer group rides, communication, and pre-ride planning
Whether you ride with one other biker or in large organised groups, this episode could change the way you ride — and help you get home safely.
👇 Let us know your experiences with group riding in the comments.
👉 Powered by Honda Motorcycles UK
👉 Part of the Better Riding series from Bennetts BikeSocial, find them all here: bennetts.co.uk/bikesocial/news-and-views/advice/biking-tips
👉 Mark can be found at motorbikecoach.com
CHAPTERS
00:00 – Why group riding deserves serious attention
01:05 – What this episode will cover
02:10 – Why Mark fears unknown group rides
03:20 – Real-world group riding crash examples
05:00 – Why staggered formations don’t work
09:07 – The “safety bubble” explained
10:40 – Overtaking: the biggest group riding danger
12:10 – Pre-ride briefings, communication, signals, and regrouping points
18:00 – Why track riding feels safer than road group rides
19:30 – Final thoughts: rethink group riding
21:15 – What’s coming next: trail braking explained
Join us at facebook.com/groups/bikesocial
Get more advice at bikeclub.bennetts.co.uk/feed
For motorcycle and kit reviews and advice visit bennetts.co.uk/bikesocial
For exclusive offers and discounts visit bikesocial.co.uk/join
Bike insurance due this month? We search our panel of insurers to find you our best price for the cover you need. Get a quote today at bennetts.co.uk or call us on 03444122171.
SUBSCRIBE FOR OTHER VIDEOS & UPDATES
youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=bennettsbike
LET’S CONNECT!
Facebook ▻ facebook.com/bennettsbike
Facebook Group ▻ facebook.com/groups/bikesocial
Instagram ▻ instagram.com/bennetts_bike
TikTok ▻ tiktok.com/@bennetts_bike
Sign up to BikeTalk newsletter ▻ bennetts.co.uk/bikesocial/biketalk
