As just one more example of how an experienced "Sweep" can add considerably to the safety of a group ride, take the case of your group riding along and seeing a sign that shows that either the right or left lane is about to be lost.
Normally, the Ride Captain will position the group so that they are in the remaining lane well before the other lane collapses. The danger, of course, comes when some vehicle tries to sneak ahead of the group by racing along that collapsing lane and runs out of road. His choices are limited, force his way into the middle of the group or leave the road.
An effective "Ride Captain/Sweep" team cures this problem before it happens. As soon as either of them realizes that one of the lanes is going to disappear the "Sweep" is asked to, or merely announces that he is going to, 'close the door'. While the group is positioned into the continuing lane, the "Sweep" rides, by himself, in the collapsing lane. As soon as the collapsing lane has disappeared, the group is once again 'family'.
This technique works well for lane changes as well. When the Ride Captain signals a lane change the "Sweep" blocks the new lane while the group changes lanes in front of him.
As a reminder, when group riding……distance yourself 2 seconds from the bike in front of you and 1 second from the bike to your right or left as the case may be. This allows plenty of reaction time should you need to take evasive action. This technique also prevents cars from cutting into the group.
