Tail gunner (sweep rider)

The tail gunner, also called the sweep, is the last rider in an organised group ride. It is usually an experienced rider who knows the route and stays behind everyone else, so nobody is left alone at the roadside.

Typical duties:

• stopping with any rider who has a breakdown, puncture or crash;
• keeping in touch with the ride leader, often by intercom, about gaps, traffic and stragglers;
• when the group changes lanes, moving first to secure space for the riders ahead.

The sweep should carry basic tools, a first-aid kit and a charged phone. On enduro and trail rides the same role ensures that no one gets lost in the forest.