11 Biker Code Hand Signals You Really Need To Know!

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Updated 24 June 2025

Biker code hand signals used to be a biker thing.

Now even non-riders ask me what it means when a motorcyclist points down with two fingers. And that’s when I realised—people are watching us.

Whether it’s other riders or car drivers, our gestures on the road matter. They tell a story. They convey intent. And, sometimes, they help us avoid mishaps.

This isn’t about looking cool. It’s about riding well.

So here are 11 essential biker hand signals that actually matter—whether you’re leading a group or just riding solo with awareness. We’ve included both real-world photos and clean diagrams so you can quickly recognise hand signals on the road and in real life.


1. The Two-Finger Point

A classic sign of respect. In the UK, we nod more than we wave—but the two-finger point (down or out) is still understood. It means: Hello, respect, or simply “I see you.”

biker code hand signals - two-finger salute
The two-finger solute (out to the side or straight down)

2. The Universal Wave

Sometimes it’s a full wave. Sometimes it’s more understated, or even just a finger raised off the grip. It means the same as the two-finger salute: “Hello.”

biker code hand signals - the universal wave
Seen in most countries that drive on the right

    3. Turning Left

    Extend your left arm straight out. Why it matters: If your indicators fail—or you’re leading a group—this is your fallback.

    turning left
    Signal for turning left

    4. Turning Right

    Bend your left arm at a 90° upward angle with a closed fist. Why the left? So your right-hand stays on the throttle and brake.

    biker code hand signals - turning right
    Signal for turning right

    5. Stopping

    Drop your left arm straight down, palm facing behind. Think of it like a stop sign for the riders behind you. You might also see with a straight arm pointing downwards.

    biker code hand signals - stop
    Hand signal for stop (or stopping)

    6. Indicator is Still On

    Extend your left arm down and open/close your fist a few times. A quiet nudge to that rider that their indicator is still blinking 3 miles later.

    Biker code / hand signals: Indicator left on (drag the arrows left and right for animation)

    7. Slow Down

    Left hand wafting up and down. Signals the group to ease off—often followed by brake lights.

    biker code hand signals - slow down
    Slow down

    8. Drop Off

    When riding in a group, it isn’t uncommon to utilise a drop-off system. This ensures the group doesn’t get split up when coming to a turn.

    The ride leader may point to a place at the side of the road where they want the following rider to stop.

    It is the job of the drop-off rider to signal to the riders behind that the lead rider has turned left or right.

    motorcyclist drop off
    Biker code / hand signals: Drop off

    9. Hazard Ahead

    Point left hand down at the road for gravel or potholes on the left. Point right leg out for hazards on the right—keeping your brake hand free.

    Biker code / hand signals: Hazard (drag the arrows left and right for animation)

    10. Exit at the Next Junction

    An exaggerated point at the motorway exit sign when you intend to come off a motorway or dual carriageway at the next junction. Sometimes followed by a slow-down gesture.

    biker code hand signals - pull off next junction
    Biker code / hand signals: Exit at next junction

    11. What Does it Mean When a Biker Taps Their Head?

    Universal signal for police ahead. In the UK especially, some use a thumbs-down instead. Either way—slow it down.

    Biker code / hand signals: Police ahead (drag the arrows left and right for animation)

    But Are These Set in Stone?

    Not even close. These are the most common, but group rides are full of improvised gestures. The key is clarity, repetition, and passing the signal back.

    And remember: you’re not just riding for yourself. You’re riding in a world full of other people—some of whom are watching and learning from you.

    So keep it smooth. Keep it visible. Keep it respectful.


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