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The Secret Language of Motorcyclists
Car drivers often have no idea about the codes motorcyclists use among themselves. The waving, the foot sticking out—it’s all part of it. But according to the French website L’Internaute, the yellow cloth (or ribbon) on the handlebars is not a greeting, but a silent cry for help.
Especially in Central Europe and Scandinavia, this is the way to indicate you’ve broken down, run out of fuel, or need medical assistance. Yellow was chosen because it stands out, even in bad weather or at dusk. It simply means: “I’m not standing here for fun—help me.” Motorcyclists are known for their solidarity, but if you, as a driver, don’t recognize this signal, you may be passing someone who has already been waiting for hours.
