The checkered flag, obviously, is the one that indicates the end of the race. In some cases, it is also used to start the race… however, many events have switched to a light system, instead.



The green flag is used, after the first full lap, to let the riders know that the race is ON!



The black flag is waved whenever a rider is being motioned to pull off of the track… usually for mechanical problems.



A blue flag indicates that a rider is about to be lapped. This way, the slower rider can move up out of the racing line and let the others pass, safely.



A yellow flag warns riders to slow down, hold their position, and watch for hazards. This is used when a rider goes down, but is getting back up… when a bike part or other object is on the track… and to indicate the end of practice laps, when riders are returning to the pit area.



A red flag tells the riders to STOP. This might indicate that somebody “jumped the line” at the start, that the track needs prepped, or that a rider is down and not clear of the racing line. When the red flag falls, riders are required to slow down, holding their position, and slowly return to the hot box area or starting line (depending on the indication given by the crew).



The white flag with the red cross signals the medical crew to come out and check on a fallen rider.