Policy and Procedures

Thankyou for visiting the Melbourne Sportsbikes Riders Policy and Procedures page.

The MSR was established in 1955 including the development of the Constitution. It has remained almost unchanged from that point other than various club name changes, becoming incorporated in 1987 and the admission of associate members. It is a testament to the skill and foresight of the original committee.

A key part of the Constitution is the Road Rules. These also have remained almost unchanged since inception, only dating slightly. The Road Rules provide general notes on how Club rides are conducted, rules based on common sense, and some procedures that facillitate smooth running of the rides. The rules are for the benefit of all riders.

The Road Rules contain a paragraph outlining the procedures to adopt when negotiating intersections and corners, referred to as the Corner Marking System. The System is a hallmark of our Club and has been copied by many other motorcycle clubs, both road and off road. It is now the corner marking system of choice for most organised rides. The Corner Marking System document contained here is a careful reflection and interpretation of the basic corner marking system. It should be read and reread as it is the single most important feature of our Club Rides, and is critical to the smooth running of them.

Another section of the Road Rules is concerned with the duties of the leader. Every ride has a nominated leader and hence this is an important function of any ride. The leader has a number of duties (plan the route, work out distances, fuel stops, points of interest, areas of risk, etc). To assist the leader with these tasks, the Aspects of Leading a Good Ride document was developed and honed over many years from about 1989 onwards. The object is to make it easier for, in particular, first time leaders. It provides a check list of activities that need to be performed and some concepts and strategies to be considered when planning a ride.

Similarly, with a consistent look and feel to each ride, Members know what to expect on each ride, within certain bounds. For instance, they know every ride will start punctually, have reasonable distances between stops, will finish at an appropriate time and place, and will be on interesting and varied roads. Such consistency allows people to confidently plan their time use, knowing that they will get effective enjoyment and value if they commit to a Club ride.

A recent addition to the Policy and Procedure pool of fascinating documents is the development of a Risk Management Strategy. This paper endeavours to outline the responsibilities of the Club, its officers, the ride leader and rear rider, and the ordinary members and guests.

It is common sense. It is about taking responsibility for your actions. (Don't turn up with a bald tyre; you will be sent home.) The document tries to be as helpful as possible in identifying hazards so that ride participants are aware of the risks. Motorcycle riding is dangerous. By reading these policies and procedures the Club hopes to minmise the risk by controlling what it can (leading, rear riding, corner marking) and thereby promoting a safe and responsible attitude to riding within the Club, to other road users, and to one self.

Last modified: 8th July 2024