You're ready to buy a motorcycle of your own after having spent some time as a passenger. While riding with other people, you've noticed a bit of motorcycle etiquette that you're curious about -- the wave. Now that you'll have your own bike, when are you expected to wave at other motorcyclists? Why do bikers do this -- and how come some of them don't?
Waving in the 21st Century
The wave likely originated as a sign of camaraderie among riders when motorcycles weren't as common on the road as they are today. Nowadays, motorcyclists just aren't waving to one another as much as they used to. Perhaps they see so many bikes on the road that waving to everyone feels pointless.
That's especially true when they're in city traffic and they see motorcycles to the right, left and in front. In that situation, riding a motorcycle doesn't feel particularly noteworthy.
You might be more likely to see a wave from a motorcyclist in certain circumstances. If you both are riding Harley bikes, for instance, there's a definitive sense of being kindred spirits. The approaching rider is likely to wave to acknowledge that fellowship. He or she is even more inclined to wave if you're both riding the same style of bike.
Waving Techniques
You won't want raise an arm and flap your hand excitedly at another motorcyclist or you'll look like a geek. Simply extend your left hand out to the side or up enough for the other rider to notice. You don't even have to move your hand off the grip; simply extend your fingers upward briefly.
Harley riders have their own wave and variations of it. You can learn the subtle differences as you go along, but you'll be cool enough if you have the basics. Drop your hand and arm from the grip toward the road, palm downward, with your first two fingers or all your fingers extended. That's proper etiquette when you're on a Harley and you see another one approaching.
To Wave or Not to Wave
Whether or not you wave at other riders is entirely up to you. Nevertheless, you might like to help keep the tradition alive by making this friendly gesture to other motorcyclists you come across, particularly on the open road. Don't feel bad if a motorcyclist doesn't return the greeting. Perhaps he or she just purchased their bike from a motorcycle trader, and still feel a little unfamiliar with the etiquette involved with riding.
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