When is it permissible to ride side by side with another motorcyclist?

Riding side by side with another motorcyclist is permissible only when it is safe and legal to do so because safety is the paramount concern for any motorcyclist. Conditions such as traffic density, road width, and the behavior of other road users play critical roles in ensuring that riding in this formation does not present hazards. Legal restrictions, such as local laws governing lane usage, also must be observed.

When riding side by side, motorcyclists must maintain a safe distance, be aware of surrounding traffic, and have a clear line of sight. Engaging in this practice without considering safety and legality can lead to accidents, endanger the operators, and potentially violate traffic laws. This approach emphasizes the importance of awareness and responsibility while riding in a group or close formation. Other factors like companionship, safety in group riding, and lane width matter, but they must always align with the primary criteria of being safe and legal.