Group Guidelines
We ride motorcycles, and probably don't like 'rules' any more than you do. We have learned from other Groups that some structure is critical to smooth running rides. We have a few basic guidelines:
1) RSVP
2) Join the group
3) Don't stir things up
1.) RSVP If you say you're coming, show up. As a leader, I feel responsible to wait for those that say they'll be there. I HATE standing around at the meet spot waiting for someone that is not coming. If you habitually RSVP ‘Yes’ and then don’t show up, you will be removed from the group. Last minute cancellations are IMHO just as rude as not showing up. A change from 'YES' to 'NO' within 12 hours of the start counts as a no show. If you have a last minute reason that you can't show up, (bike won't start, flat tire, you have to bail your Mom out of jail, etc...) message the leader, they can change your status from no-show to not attended. Groups Place does track and give points for attending events, and you will lose points for no-shows. We also limit rides. So signing up does guarantee a spot will be available for you. We limit the size for all of our safety. Too big of a group is hard to see the end of when you're leading, and is difficult to get through traffic and traffic signals. If you RSVP yes to save a spot, and then habitually change that RSVP at the last minute depriving someone else of the spot, we will not look at you kindly. It's just inconsiderate. We know things do come up, and that sometimes these things are out of your control. We are not talking about occasional changes, we know those can happen. We will limit your participation if it happens a lot.
2.) JOIN THE GROUP We love it when you ride with us, and it's a compliment to the group when you want your friends to ride with us. For liability reasons they need to join the group to ride. This protects us, you, and your friends. If your friend is a passenger on your bike, they don't need to join, but you should review the acknowledgement with them. If they are piloting their own bike, they do need to join. If your friend doesn't want to join the group, they are welcome to meet us at our destination. Of course no membership is required for monthly dinners or movie nights. This is a great time for people to check us out to see if we're a good fit.
3.) DON'T STIR THINGS UP The event comments are NOT the place to express concerns to the ride leader. There is some planning that goes into rides. The leader creates a route, contacts the restaurant, calculates the time needed to get there, tries to anticipate traffic lights, stop signs and other issues like construction. If you think you know a good way to get there or think the leader is starting too late or too early, send the leader a message. Bringing up your concerns in the comments section undermines the leader and sows dissension. We know you mean well. You're trying to help, and any ride leader appreciates this. Just not in the ride comments, it's too easy to misconstrue. I hate to be a hard ass, but this has created a lot of trouble in other groups.
Finally, although this is not a rule, it does need to be said. THIS IS NOT A DATING GROUP, but you may meet someone through MEWS that becomes more than a friend. If you do, and you're both happy, good for you. There's nothing like a shared love of motorcycles upon which to build a relationship. But, if you end the relationship, this groups pages are not the place to talk about it. Talk it over with your BFF, not in public on the groups comments sections. No one will be removed from the group per your request just because you two are not bumping pelvises anymore.
Comments on the website should be mindful. I have no tolerance for trolling. Your comment will be deleted if it’s rude, and repeat offenses will get you removed from the group.