Rider safety is our biggest priority. We have taken every precaution to make this ride of a lifetime as safe as possible for riders, performers, and our crew.

Riders

• Riders must follow Missouri laws while on public roads.

• The highway patrol or other law enforcement may write tickets if you ride illegally, and your bikes may be impounded. If your bikes are impounded, you may need proof of ownership to recover them.

• Be mindful of traffic coming from adjacent gravel roads because drivers may have difficulty seeing you. Even when you have the right-of-way, be aware that you might not be seen.

• When making a left turn, watch not only for oncoming traffic but also for traffic from behind that might be attempting to pass you. Use all proper hand signals when turning right or left or slowing or stopping.

• Ride to the right side of your lane.

• Make sure you carry water and have the right equipment and gear for a long, summertime ride.

• Carry a personal ID with you at all times.

• Retrieve your luggage by 8:00 pm every night. If any bags are not spoken for, we will alert safety personnel.

• Use reflective tape or lights on your bike, and on bags that might cover up your built-on bike reflectors. On-road rides, we recommend using a head lamp and flashing tail light.

• Please ask the Big BAM crew members or local volunteers if you have any questions–they will be wearing crew shirts.

• Do not count on cell service all along the route. There may be gaps in coverage.

• Stay along the designated route to ensure safety.

• Unlawful or disruptive behavior along the route or in the communities we are visiting will be reported.

• Ride in groups and have a “buddy system” in place.

• Beer garden operators reserve the right to refuse service to any riders they believe are unfit to bicycle.

• Use a flashing rear light in rainy or dark conditions

SAG vehicles

• Each day there will be a lead vehicle and an end/support vehicle and other support vehicles in between. They will be able to help riders with basic bicycle repair, basic first aid, and transport to the next town or night stop if needed. Please call or text SAG if you need any help.

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Non-Cyclists Participating In The Event

• Supporters and private support vehicles are asked to take a different route than the cyclists.

Emergency Shelters

• Each community will have a designated shelter in case of emergencies.

What to do if caught in the open outdoors during a tornado

• Find shelter in the nearest sturdy building.

• Do not try to outrun a tornado.

• Avoid areas with a lot of trees.

• Stay away from overpasses or bridges.

•  The safest place to be is in a flat location near the ground.

• Lie down in the lowest place you can find – typically a ditch is the best option. Lie flat, with your face towards the ground and cover your head with your arms.

• Avoid power lines and puddles with power lines nearby, or down power lines.

• Keep your group together and wait for emergency personnel to arrive if needed.

• Remain calm and listen for instructions from emergency personnel if they are on the scene.

What to do if caught in the open during a thunderstorm

• If you hear thunder, find the closest shelter. If none is in sight, get to the lowest elevation available.

• Avoid puddles and being close to water.

• Do not get close to isolated structures such as trees, fences, and telephone poles.

• Put distance between your metal bike and yourself.

• If you are with many people, spread out! Keep a distance of at least 50-100 feet between each person.

• Get in the “lightning crouch” position. Assume a squatting position, with your head tucked towards your chest or in between your knees. Do not lie down on the ground, as this is more surface area for lightning to strike.

• Keep your eyes closed and cover your ears