Ensure your bike is in safe, roadworthy condition.
Be prepared to fix basic mechanical issues such as punctures.
Carry essential tools: spare inner tubes (correct size), tyre levers, a pump, and multi-tools (spanners or Allen keys).
Helmets are mandatory on all rides.
Mudguards are required during winter months (October to March).
Use appropriate lighting and high-visibility clothing in low-light conditions.
Carry personal details, including name, address, emergency contact information, and some cash.
Bring drinks and snacks, such as high-energy bars, even on shorter rides.
Respect all road users, including drivers, pedestrians, runners, dog walkers, and horse riders.
Do not jump red lights.
Allow vehicles to pass safely on narrow roads when possible.
Ride steadily: maintain a constant speed and line to avoid disrupting the group.
Ride no more than two abreast unless instructed otherwise.
Keep a safe but close distance to the wheel in front; do not overlap wheels.
Communicate within the group to signal hazards or changes in pace.
Follow the ride leader’s instructions and keep the group informed if a rider has a mechanical issue or falls behind.
Avoid sudden braking or sharp movements to maintain group cohesion.
Anticipate hills by shifting gears early; regroup at the top if necessary.
Do not wave through vehicles; let drivers decide when it is safe to overtake.
React calmly to incidents with other road users; do not provoke or retaliate.
Notify the leader if you plan to leave the ride early or experience difficulties keeping up.
Effective communication is essential for group safety:
Point out hazards such as potholes or debris.
Use hand and verbal signals to alert others to changes or risks.
Pass signals along to ensure all riders are informed.
Hand signals are vital for ensuring the safety of the group and other road users. Here are the key signals every rider should know:
Hazard Left/Right: Point to the ground on the side of the hazard to indicate debris, potholes, or other obstacles. It also helps to call out what the hazard is e.g. "Hole Left!" or "Branch Right!" etc
Slowing/Stopping: Place an open hand behind your back or raise your hand high to signal slowing or coming to a stop. Follow this up with a call out and reason, e.g. "Slowing, sharp corner!" or "Stopping, junction ahead!"
Turning Left/Right: Extend your arm in the direction of the turn. Call out "Left Turn Ahead!" or "Right Turn Ahead!"
Move Out: Wave behind your back in the direction of the move to indicate the group should move out to avoid an obstacle or parked car. You may also follow this up with a call e.g. "Moving out!"
Single File: Raise a single finger to indicate switching to single-file formation. Call out "Single File!" to make sure everybody knows what is going on.
Vehicles Ahead or Back: On narrow roads it helps to call out approaching cars from ahead or behind. Some groups use verbal instructions like "Car Up!" or "Car Back!"; however, these can mean different things depending on the club. Therefore, to avoid confusion, just shout "Car Behind!" or "Car Front!". Also, if the road is narrow, be ready to call for Single File to allow cars to pass.
Avoid overlapping your front wheel with the rear wheel of the rider ahead; this can lead to crashes if they swerve unexpectedly.
When taking turns at the front, maintain a consistent pace and avoid sudden acceleration or deceleration.
Smooth transitions and steady pedalling help maintain group harmony.
Two-Up Formation: This is the most common formation for Club Rides. The group ride in two parallel lines. Rotate positions periodically to share the workload.
Through & Off (Chain Gang): Used for higher-speed training rides. Here we have 2 options:
Single Paceline: A single-file formation for high-speed or narrow-road scenarios. Riders take turns at the front, flicking an elbow to signal their move to the back.
Double Paceline (aka Chaingang or Through & Off): Riders continuously rotate in a fluid motion, with the outer line moving faster than the inner line.
Each rider is responsible for their own safety and the well-being of the group. Offer constructive feedback when needed and be open to receiving it. By working together, we can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Riding in a group reduces effort by up to 30%, making it a more efficient and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re new to group cycling or a seasoned rider, following these guidelines will help ensure a successful ride. Enjoy the camaraderie and the journey — no ride is too long with great company!
