fbpx

Group cycling etiquette

This page outlines the group cycling etiquette that will help make your Club cycles safer and more rewarding.

  • Be on time at Cycle SuperStore on Airton Road at 08:45. We roll out at 09:00 sharp.
  • Make sure your bike is well maintained and in good working order.
  • Put mudguards on your bike - be considerate to your club mates.
  • A bike helmet must be worn.
  • Road bikes only – no tri bars or TT bikes on group cycles.
  • Dress for the weather and carry a light jacket.
  • Carry an “in case of emergency” card with you.
  • Bring food, water, spare tube, tyre levers, pump, your phone and some money.
  • Know how to change an inner tube, it is your responsibility to change the tube if you get a puncture.
  • Choose the group that best reflects your abilities and be realistic about this. Ask the Group Leader if you are unsure.
GROUP Distance Terrain Avg. Flat Speed
RED 80 km + Climbing > 28 kph+
WHITE 60 – 80 km Some climbing 25 – 28 kph
YELLOW 40 – 60 km Flat to rolling < 25 kph
  • Follow the instructions of the Group Leader.
  • We generally cycle in two abreast formation and the Group Leader will call when it’s time to “roll over”. The Group Leader will also call if the group needs to go single file.
  • Maintain a steady line in the group, don’t make sudden movements, don’t brake suddenly, don’t get out of your saddle without warning the rider behind you, don’t overlap wheels.
  • When you are at the front of the group maintain a steady pace, do not surge forward or go off the front and keep the group together. Keep pedalling when going downhill.
  • Don’t “half wheel” (i.e. increasing the pace by going slightly ahead of the rider next to you).
  • Use hand signals and calls to indicate when the group is “slowing”, “stopping” etc.
  • Point out and call any hazards such as potholes, gravel, ramps, car up, car down etc.
  • Avoid leaving gaps when following the bike in front of you.
  • Obey the rules of the road and stop on red lights. Be courteous to other road users at all times.
    
    

The videos below offer a good overview of group cycling technique and etiquette.

Good articles to read are this one from BikeRadar and this one from Road Cycling UK.

Road Cycling UK have also created this very informative article on hand signals.

Pulse Triathlon Club: swimming, cycling, running and socialising since 2003

Cycle Superstore westpark