With an influx of new members and the group size swelling to regularly around 30 riders on a Sunday, we thought it would be a good time to reinforce Club Ride Etiquette. Follow these guidelines and everyones Sunday ride can be enjoyable.
Listen to your ride leader - Ride leaders are there for everyone's benefit. They take the lead, they know the route and they make decisions.
Help your ride leader - Reinforce the instructions your ride leader gives.
Download the route if possible - this way if you want to attack the hills (as long as its agreed and safe) you know that you are turning left at the top instead of carrying straight on. If you don't have the route do not ride off.
Ride single file or 2 a breast and no more. - We do this to keep things safe for us and other road users. Listen to the ride leader when they say to single out or ride 2 a breast. Watch a video here
Signal - Signal when turning early and clearly, do not brake sharply and turn without warning.
No headphones - What you do on your commute is your business, but not on the club ride.
Helmet - Although optional we do recommend everyone wears one at all times and ultimately up to Ride Leader discretion.
Point out hazards - Riders should point out potholes, road kill, passing cars and anything else that might cause issue to a rider passing over it or near it. It is every riders responsibility, not just those at the front, signals/comms are passed from front to back.Watch a video herePass Cyclists and Horses with a wide berth - When passing slower cyclists do not cut straight back in front, pass them with care. Slow for horses and announce your presence.
Take a turn on the front - Again, not a requirement but it helps everyone in the group make it to the end. Take a long turn or a short turn it doesn't matter. If you can't take a turn, let people know not to expect one.
Corner safely - A club ride is not a race (except for the odd sign or hill top) so take it easy and stay safe. Watch a video here
Ride safe, see you on the road!