The Art of Alt-Waving: Nodding, Leg Gestures, and Motorcycle Etiquette Around the World
When riding a motorcycle, one of the joys of the experience is the exchange of nods and alt-waves (alternative waving gestures) with fellow riders. However, when engaged in clutch work, dealing with gears, or focusing on road conditions, the traditional hand wave can often be replaced with a more subtle but effective gesture. This article explores commonly used alt-waves and how riders around the world adopt them.
UK and Europe: Nodding and Leg Jerks
In the UK and throughout much of Europe, the tradition is to nod or tip the head as a greeting or acknowledge fellow riders. This is particularly common when you can't perform the traditional hand wave due to the need to keep one hand on the controls. In some parts of Europe, such as certain historical regions, riders have been known to stick out their left leg as an alternative gesture. This leg jerk, or 'leg wave,' is a fun and accepted practice.
For instance, if you're in a situation where you can't perform a hand wave because you're clutching or shifting gears, nodding your head becomes the go-to alternative. Unless the rider is very close to you or you have a full range of motion, a nod is often the best you can do. Riders understand this and don't get overly upset if a nod is missed, as it's a common occurrence. Rather than focusing on the missed gesture, the cyclist's main priority is safety on the road.
Brazilian Countryside: Quick Horn Taps
Traveling to the Brazilian countryside, the habit of nodding heads takes a slight back seat to horn signals. In this fast-paced environment, riders might use a quick double tap of the horn to acknowledge one another. This gesture is both quick and effective, unlike the more involved leg wave or nodding that might be preferred in some other regions. Nodding heads is still a valuable alternative, but it doesn't hold the same cultural significance as it does in the UK or certain parts of Europe.
Surabaya to Brisbane: Nodding for Safety
Moving from a motorcycle-dominated city like Surabaya to Brisbane, riders often find themselves feeling more secure when they see nods from fellow cyclists. In Surabaya, where motorcycles are a primary mode of transportation and accidents are more frequent, the gesture is deeply ingrained as a symbol of recognition and mutual respect. After experiencing the nod in Surabaya, the wave becomes an expected, if not always visually comfortable, form of acknowledgment in Brisbane.
Ahead of a key intersection, when you notice another biker waiting or stopped, you might raise the leg closest to them as a thank you for yielding or a gesture of acknowledgment. This leg wave, while different from the nod, effectively serves to communicate respect and gratitude in the same way a hand wave would.
Conclusion: Embracing Alt-Waves for Safety and Recognition
The world of motorcycle riding is filled with a myriad of interactions and nuances. Whether it's nodding heads, sticking out one's leg, or employing a quick double tap of the horn, these alt-waves play a crucial role in maintaining the safety and camaraderie among cyclists. They serve as quick, effective ways to acknowledge one another, even when the traditional hand wave might not be feasible. By adopting these gestures, riders can ensure that the road remains a place of mutual respect and understanding.