Rider education

Racing Flags 101

New to racing, or need a refresher? Learn what each flag means and what to do when you see it, whether you're racing or working the course.

Grand Prix edition

Know your flags before the gate drops

KCF Safety Advisors David & Rhiannon Kamo explain the eight flags you may see at a Grand Prix motorcycle race, like NGPC and Big 6 GP, and what to do when you see each one.

Share it with your riders and flaggers before race day.

Quick reference

What each flag means

The eight flags you may see at a Grand Prix race, all included in the KCF Racing Flag Set.

Green

A green flag or light means the start of the race.

Blue

You're about to be passed by faster riders. Hold your line and don't impede their progress. At the start line, blue means kill your engine.

Yellow

Caution. Slow down, maintain your position, and don't gain an advantage between the flag and the incident.

Black

Disqualification. The rider being flagged must report to the referee immediately.

Medical Cross

Ambulances, safety vehicles, or emergency personnel may be on the course. Use extreme caution: slow down, maintain your position, don't gain an advantage, and keep both wheels on the ground between the flag and the incident. Failure to do so may result in a loss of position or disqualification at the referee's discretion.

Red

The race is being stopped for an emergency. Return cautiously to the start line and wait for instructions.

White

One lap to go until the finish.

Checkered

The end of the race. Do not go out for another lap.

Flag rules can vary by series. Always follow your series rulebook and what's announced at the riders' meeting.

KCF 8 Racing Flag Set with carrying case
For clubs & race crews

Get the KCF 8 Racing Flag Set

Everything your flaggers need, in one carrying case. Your purchase supports rider safety.

8 flags: green, blue, yellow, black, medical cross, red, white, and checkered
30" x 30" flags on 39" poles (15mm diameter)
Carrying case included

Running a club or series? You may qualify for flags through Safety Support.

Help put flags in more hands

Your donation helps get flags, vests, and course marking supplies to the clubs and crews keeping riders safe.

Questions? safety@kurtcaselli.com