Cycling Group Riding Etiquette Unwritten Rules. How to Participate in Group Rides & Be Safe on Bike Rides
Group rides might be scary to those who are unfamiliar with them. However, if you want to meet new people, improve your riding skills, and get a good workout, inquire at your local bike shop about weekly rides and sign up. We've detailed a few things to keep in mind during your first few group rides with some of the universal cycling group ride etiquette tips shared below.
With these quick tips, you may take your cycling to the next level while also meeting some new people by attending a local group bike ride.
12 Unwritten Group Ride Rules To Know Before You Join a Club Ride
Rule #1 - RESPECT THE PACE
A group ride is not the time to race, nor is it an opportunity to complete intervals or your own training plan strenuous workout. The goal is to ride as a group as much as possible. Allow for the group's pace rather than the pace of the strongest person. If you think you are a faster or slower rider - inquire about the pace of the group in advance.
Rule #2 - BREAK CAUTIOUSLY
To slow down, feather or tether your brakes to avoid braking aggressively. There should never be any slamming of the brakes.
Rule #3 - AVOID WHEEL OVERLAP
Please, no swerving to the left or right or riding half-wheel to the person to the front or back of you. When wheels touch - very bad things can happen.
Rule #4 - LEAVE SPACE BETWEEN RIDERS
There's no need to ride 3 inches behind the rider in front of you when on a road cycling group ride. It's safer if you give yourself a little breathing room and leave a bigger gap between riders..
Rule #5 - SHARE WARNINGS & INSTRUCTIONS
Make sure that instructions and safety warnings such as turns and oncoming cars are communicated to the group from both the front and back of the pack.
Rule #6 - KEEP YA HEAD UP
Keep your head up and your eyes on the road ahead, rather than your gaze fixed on the steering wheel in front of you, to avoid accidents.
Rule #7 - POINT OUT ROAD DANGERS
Draw attention to potential road dangers and indicate turns, slowing, and stopping.
Rule #8 - DON’T CLOG THE ROAD
Rolling up three wide (or more) is not recommended, especially on tight roads.
Rule #9 - NO EAR BUDS
Don't bring any music buds with you. Make room for discussion and ambient pack noises to fill in the gaps.
Rule #10 - OBEY TRAFFIC LAWS
Ride to the right. We are all familiar with the regulations of the road. Make sure you don't cross the yellow line. Stopping at traffic lights and stop signs is required. When we're in a group, it's critical that we follow the rules in order to stay safe.
Rule #11 - BE PREPARED
Bring a tube and flat changing equipment, as well as an understanding of how to use them. Certainly, someone may be able to assist you with small mechanical issues, but do not rely on others.
Rule #12 - ARRIVE EARLY
Arrive early. The posted ride time is often the wheels down or roll out time. Allow time to set up your bike, put on your helmet, and do any last-minute preparations such as changing shoes or inflating your tires, so you will be ready and lined up in time to listen to last-minute route and ride directions from the group ride or pace group leader.
Conclusion: 12 Cycling Group Ride Rules Bikers Should Know
When it comes to cycling group ride etiquette for road biking, gravel riding, mountain bike club rides, and even small trail group rides amongst friends, these 12 pro tips on the unwritten group bike riding etiquette and the unspoken rules for social group riding can make your next spin with a new social cycling group feel more welcoming and safe.
The format and difficulty level of group rides differ from one another. Each group ride has its own set of rules and etiquette that everyone must follow.
Connect & Talk to Other Cyclists.
Find one of the regular riders, or reach out to the club leader and inquire about the etiquette that applies to the particular ride you are looking to join. What kind of pace does the group maintain during the group ride, or type of terrain/route covered, or even ask about the size of the cycling group?
Message for experienced riders: " We hope this also informs you that those who are new to riding may be unaware of these unwritten group cycling etiquette rules, and they can use your kindness to help them become group ride savvy.
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