Group Ride Etiquette
Riding is More Fun With Others!
There's no better source of motivation, knowledge and camaraderie than your fellow riders. However, the prospect of joining a ride for the first time can be intimidating. Worried that you might not know "the rules" of the group ride? We’ve got you covered! Just read the following suggestions and join us for our next group ride or cycling event.
Pick The Right Group Ride
Group ride levels and objectives vary. Determining the group's goal and pace will ensure that you join a ride that's right for you. Is the ride social or sadistic? Is it considered a training ride or a training race? How far will the group go? What route will it follow? What are the rendezvous points? Are there any rest stops? Will quicker riders wait for those who've been dropped? Answer these questions before the ride so you don’t jump into a blistering hammerfest when all you wanted was a social "coffee" ride and vice versa. If you're not sure what a ride offers, ask us.
Don't Be Late
Many riders have a limited amount of time to ride. So group rides typically start within minutes of the official starting time. If you're late, you'll miss out. Plus, if you hold the group up, you'll make a bad first impression. And, don't forget to allow for donning your equipment, pumping up your tires, and reassembling your bike if you drive to the start. It's a good idea to arrive at least ten minutes early.
Ride Carefully And Considerately
Bikes are considered vehicles, just like cars, and are required to obey the same traffic laws. And, getting a traffic ticket or placing your fellow riders in danger is certain to make a bad impression. Make sure that any actions you take are possible for those behind you. Avoid darting in front of cars while making a left or crossing an intersection when only two or three riders can successfully get across. It's a natural tendency to follow the rider ahead of you and having to make a split-second decision whether to cross or not places the cyclists behind you in jeopardy.
Communicate
Communication is the key to safe group rides. Because roads are full of traffic and hazards, and because visibility is limited when riding in a group, it's important to warn others about hazards and to remain alert at all times to the warnings shouted and pointed out.
Warnings you're likely to hear include:
- Car back: there's a car approaching the group from the rear
- Car up: car approaching from the front
- Car right (or left): a car's approaching on a cross street
- Stopping: the group is stopping for a stop sign or light
- Walker up: there's a pedestrian on the road ahead
- Gravel, Sand, Glass or Hole: there's a road hazard ahead
Be Prepared
Be prepared for the challenges of the ride. Learn the route ahead of time to ensure you don't get lost. Also, if you know the route, it's easier to shortcut the ride if you get into trouble. Always bring a tube, a pump and any tools you need. Bringing a cell phone and cash is a good idea, too. And keep in mind that not all rides stop for flat tires, so you may be riding in alone if you puncture.
Join The Fun!
Group rides can be immensely rewarding. You get a great workout, cover more distance than you would alone and get to hang out with friends. You might even stop for coffee and conversation. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and join the gang!