SECOND MAN DROP SYSTEM (SMD)

 

During the whole journey, we will use the so called, “Second Man Drop” system. 
For those who do not know this system, hereafter the general guidelines:

 

With the second man drop system, we have
a “Pointer” (Group Leader),
the “Markers” (Riders).
a “Sweeper” (tail end Group Leader),
 

 

• The Pointer will point out to the first person behind him (The Marker) where to wait to be best positioned to mark each junction.

 

• The Riders called The Marker – if at any point the route deviates i.e. you take a turn off, the first of the Riders behind the Leader/Pointer become a Marker, will stop to mark the way at the junction in a place prominent to the rest of the following group.
  The Pointer will indicate where this Marker needs to stop.
  As a Marker , don ‘t go away from that spot; don't panic, sometimes the waiting time to see the Sweeper can be long, depending on the traffic conditions.
  When you see no Marker at a junction, this means you need to follow the road straight ahead, i.e. on traffic red lights, a Stop sign, at a roundabout

 

• The Sweeper (Tail ender Group Leader) will stay at the back for the entire ride.
  All riders need to stay in front of him.

 

• Once the Sweeper has arrived, the junction Marker can then move off.

 

• When you see no Marker at a junction, this means you need to follow the road straight ahead.

 

  If any of the Riders decides to drop off the back of the group (behind the sweeper), 
  they must inform the Sweeper what's going on. 

 

A few safety points :

 

• Do not ride above your ability/limits to try and keep up.
  There will be a bike waiting for you at the next junction.

• There will be regular stops for a breather/fag break during which you can catch up safely. Just because we have pulled over for a couple of minutes it doesn’t mean we are having a fag break though!   If the Pointers’ helmet is still on, he isn’t planning on stopping

• Ride at a pace that is within your ability.

• It’s not a race and you won’t get left behind.

• Just because you can’t see the bike in front doesn’t mean you’re going to get left behind.
  Take it steady, someone will be waiting somewhere.

 

If you still have questions about this system or if it is not clear to you, no stress. 
During the Opening Ceremony we will show you a DVD film and it will become clear to you.