Frequently Asked Questions…
Find quick answers to your questions about our club, rides, and membership here.
Please note, these are summaries and estimations based on experience and personal understanding, but none of these answers override the Code of Conduct or Constitution. In the case of any conflict or contradiction, the national policies will take precedent.
WHAT IS THE SOUTHERN CRUISERS RIDING CLUB (SCRC)?
SCRC is a nationwide motorcycle riding club focused on bringing riders together in a relaxed, friendly environment. The emphasis is on enjoying the ride, building friendships, and supporting fellow riders.
DO I HAVE TO OWN A MOTORCYCLE TO JOIN?
Technically no, but it’s going to be a lot more fun if you do!
Do I have to ride a specific type of motorcycle?
No—SCRC is open to all types of street-legal motorcycles. Cruisers, touring bikes, sport bikes, and everything in between are welcome. However, we may spend time on the interstate so it’s important that your bike can maintain legal speeds, and above all, that your motorcycle is in safe, working order. You will be asked to sit out a ride if your bike has obvious safety issues.
Do I have to pay dues to join?
SCRC is free to join at the national level. Some chapters may attend events that require fees or donations to participate, such as poker runs, lunch gatherings, etc., but all events are optional.
What’s the difference between a riding club (RC) and a motorcycle club (MC)?
Please consult the following link for an amazing resource that others have put together on this topic. If you have any other questions on this, please ask.
👉 RC vs MC – What’s the Difference?
Do I have to attend every ride or meeting?
Not at all. Participation is completely optional—ride when you can, and join in as much or as little as you’d like. As in all things in life, you’ll get more out of it if you put more into it!
What are the expectations for members?
Members are expected to treat others with respect, ride responsibly, and follow the club’s basic code of conduct. The goal is to maintain a positive, drama-free environment for everyone. If you run into any issues, talk to your local chapter’s First Officer.
How are group rides organized?
Rides are typically planned by chapter officers and shared with members ahead of time. Each ride follows basic safety guidelines, including designated ride leaders and a structured riding format. We typically ride in a “staggered” formation.
For more information on the logistics of our rides, please see this page: Riding Guidelines
Do I have to follow specific riding rules?
SCRC promotes safe group riding practices. Riders are encouraged to follow the chapter’s ride guidelines, listen to ride leaders, and ride within their own comfort level. Anyone putting themselves or others at risk will be asked to leave the formal riding group.
What if I’m new to group riding?
No problem—new riders are always welcome. Group rides are structured to be safe and predictable, and experienced members are happy to help you get comfortable.
If you’re new to riding in general or new to group riding, please let the First Officer know when you join the chapter. They may ask to meet and ride with you ahead of a scheduled group ride to make sure you’re able to operate safely, both for yourself and for others, but we will definitely work with you if you need any help.
It is recommended you take an MSF course prior to riding on public streets and/or highways.
Can I bring a passenger or guest?
Yes, guests and passengers are typically welcome on rides. It’s a great way to introduce others to the club.
How is the club structured?
SCRC is organized into local chapters, each with its own leadership. These chapters operate under a state and national structure that provides guidelines and support while allowing flexibility at the local level.
Typically, chapters will be led by a First Officer, who will schedule rides, meetings, and keep things in the chapter moving forward. Most chapters will also have a Second Officer, who takes over for the First Officer when needed and may have other duties as needed in the chapter.
Most will have Road Captains, individuals who have shown a desire and skill scheduling and leading group rides. These are generally the most experienced riders in the group. They will give a pre-ride briefing to those in attendance to ensure everyone knows the route and hand signals that will be used during the ride.
Some chapters may have a Safety Officer, who helps ensure that bikes are in good working order and riders are operating safely. They may give a safety briefing prior to the ride.
No other official positions exist in the local chapters, but you may see some larger chapters opt to include a “Third Officer” to help with various duties.
If the group is large enough, a designated “Tail Gunner” or “Sweep” will be in place at the back of the group. This person’s job is to monitor the overall group and ensure anyone that breaks down or gets separated from the group is attended to. This person is generally a Road Captain or chapter officer, but ideally this person is mechanically and medically inclined. If you have any particular training in these areas, make sure and let us know you’re able to help!
SCRC does not allow “blockers” during group rides for safety and legal reasons. If a group is separated at an intersection, the Road Captain will hold the group at the next safest opportunity until the rest of the group can rejoin. If needed, the Tail Gunner may move up to the lead position.
Side note – Each First and Second Officer has to be approved by State and National Officers. Other positions serve at the First Officer’s request.
What makes the Northwest Arkansas Chapter different?
First of all, we’re the luckiest chapter in SCRC – we have some of the best roads in the country, and motorcyclists come from all over the world to ride in our backyard.
Our chapter focuses on relaxed, scenic rides, building a strong local riding community, and making sure everyone feels welcome—whether it’s your first ride or your hundredth.
How do I join the Northwest Arkansas Chapter?
Complete the SCRC membership application online and select “Northwest Arkansas #107” as your local chapter. It may take a day or two for that to be approved, but the chapter First Officer will reach out via email as soon as possible to welcome you and reiterate all the important information you may need.
This is a great time to ask any questions you have! Heck, we may even take you to lunch, who knows. 😉
What should I bring on a ride?
Come prepared with proper safety gear, a full tank of gas, and anything you may need for the day. Most importantly, bring a great attitude. Everyone has bad days, but if you’re feeling especially stressed or upset, please skip the group ride – there will be another, and we want to make sure everyone gets to the next one safely.
What happens if someone breaks down or needs help?
SCRC is built on looking out for one another. If you break down in the middle of the ride, safely pull off to the side of the road as soon as you’re able. The group will proceed to the next safest stop, but the last person in the group will stop with you and make sure you get whatever help you need.
We don’t want the entire group stopping on the side of the road for safety reasons, but we won’t leave you behind! I guarantee the Road Captain saw you pull off, so rest assured, someone will be back shortly if the group pulls ahead.
Just in Case You’re Wondering…
Do I have to ride in formation?
Yes, as much as you are able. We utilize a “staggered” riding formation for safety, generally keeping two seconds away from the motorcycle directly in front of you, and one second away from the rider ahead of you in the alternate lane position. If this doesn’t make sense to you, please let the First Officer know when you join so we can go over riding in formation in more detail.
These formations aren’t meant to look cool, but to make sure the group can move together as safely as possible. Cars will inevitably try to fill gaps, and can cut the group in half if we leave them space. Also, they look cool. That said, don’t fight the cars for position – if a car moves into the group, make space for them. Odds are good they’ll be turning off soon and the group can recombine. The Road Captain will slow the front group down to avoid leaving the second half behind.
More importantly than any group formation is riding your own ride – if you don’t feel comfortable, don’t feel pressure to ride any way that you feel is unsafe. If you aren’t comfortable in a group, please work with the First Officer and Road Captain to find the best place for you in the group. Typically, you will be up front in the group just behind the Road Captain. This isn’t so the rest of the group can watch you, but this is generally the lowest stressed position – the back of the group is subject to “rubber banding” as the group speeds up and slows down. This also helps the Road Captain tailor the ride to your needs and monitor your status.
What if I miss a turn?
It happens to everyone. Don’t panic—just ride safely, and we’ll make sure you get back on track. Nobody gets left behind. The Tail Gunner will follow you and help lead you back to the flock.
Do I need to be an expert rider to join?
Not at all. If you can safely operate your bike and want to ride with others, you’ll fit right in. We’ve all been the “new rider” at some point.
Will I be the slowest rider there?
Maybe… but someone has to be, and it changes every ride. We ride as a group, not a race. We would rather you be slow and safe, than fast and in a ditch.
What if it rains?
We ride when it’s safe and makes sense—but this isn’t a test of survival skills. If the weather’s bad, plans may change. However, this is Arkansas, so it’s wise to be prepared for anything!
Do I have to talk to people?
Only if you want to. But fair warning—motorcycle people tend to be pretty friendly.
Is there a dress code?
Just ride safe and wear appropriate gear. Beyond that, be yourself—no fashion judgment here. If we ride into a helmet-mandatory state, helmets will be required, but this should be disclosed during the ride planning stages.
Do I have to have a loud bike?
Nope. Loud, quiet, stock, modified—it’s all welcome. It’s about the ride, not the volume.
Will I know where everyone is riding to before we leave?
Yes 😄 We’ll go over the route before the ride so everyone knows what to expect.
Is this going to take over my life?
Only if you let it. Some people ride occasionally, others ride every chance they get—it’s completely up to you.
What’s the most important rule?
Ride your own ride. Stay safe, don’t feel pressured to keep up, and enjoy the journey. And if you have a question – ask.