Club Etiquette
“Open” Social Rides
“Open” Social rides usually consist of various levels of experience, fitness and speed, from moderate to fast.
Each ride is led by a leader or leaders.
The training is either a constantly rotating ‘through and off’ system, or a ‘bit and bit’ where all riders in the group take regular turns on the front, so that everyone in the group shares the work. Rides are conducted in an orderly manner without massive fluctuations in speed.
Riders should be able to take regular turns on the front. If for any reason riders find themselves unable to do this then they should inform the group leader and ‘sit in’ at the back for the remainder of the ride. The rider should consider a different group the following week.
Don’t Race. The Club Run is a social ride, not a race. Anyone accelerating ahead of the group will be assumed to be on their own ride. If they take a wrong turn, they will not be chased down. We operate a “no drop” policy and wait for riders who go off the back of the ride. We do not wait for those who go off the front.
Riders Responsibilities
Riders must always abide by the Highway Code. Dangerous and unlawful cycling cannot be tolerated, and riders must not bring the Club into disrepute.
It is the responsibility of each rider in the group to consider the safety of their fellow riders and other road users, to consider the road and weather conditions and to ride accordingly.
It is the responsibility of each rider to carry necessary tools, equipment and working lights.
It is the responsibility of each rider to know how to get back to the meeting place, or home if need be, by themselves, should they be separated from their group by puncture, breakdown or any other event. Normally, the group will wait for all their riders.
On etiquette and safety here are a few things to take note of:
Group riding can be dangerous and requires your full concentration and co-operation, so please take notice of instructions from the ride leader.
We ride two abreast at all times unless instructed otherwise by the ride leader.
Watch for warnings and instructions about road obstacles and turning. Then communicate these down the group as you become aware of them. Also look beyond the rider in front of you for such warnings and instructions.
Ride as close to the rear wheel of the rider in front as you feel comfortable, however never overlap the rear wheel of the rider in front.
When on the front of the group you are responsible for communicating the direction you are going. If you do not know then ask the ride leader.
When you are on the front do not half-wheel the rider next to you. Always ride with your front wheels level, which means a stronger rider should ease back if his/her partner cannot easily keep level.
Always think safety and take care of the other riders with you in the group.
Details of how the Club Ride’s are managed, please jump over to the Club Ride page.
Club Recommendations
It is recommended that Riders have personal insurance cover from British Cycling, or another similar organisation.
Club Members must always wear a helmet whilst on Club rides.
“No helmet, no ride”.In Winter please fit mudguards, for the sake of those behind you.
Club Members should wear the club kit if they can. This helps raise the profile of the Club and helps the leader identify riders within the group.
