Riding in a Group

Do’s and Don’ts for Group Rides

Group riding skills and safety is a very big topic to cover, so here are some easy to remember Do's and Don'ts that each and every rider needs to commit to during our club rides:

Do be aware- as you ride, ensure that you remain aware of your fellow riders, upcoming intersections, and potential hazards. Be predictable to other riders and to traffic, avoiding sudden changes in speed or direction. Brake and accelerate smoothly, and hold your line through turns. Be aware of how your behaviour reflects on the cycling community and on the club. Be polite to drivers and pedestrians. Be aware of how other riders around you are doing. Always error on the side of safety.

Do communicate- communicate effectively by calling out potential hazards and using hand signals as appropriate. Pass all messages up and down the line. Examples: pointing out potholes or cracks, calling out “stopping/ slowing”, calling out “car back” meaning riders should be aware of traffic and move to single file when safe to do so. Check on other riders if you think they may need encouragement or assistance. If the pace of the group needs to be adjusted alert the leader and/or other group members. Do not allow riders do be dropped on no-drop B or C group rides.

Do have fun- We are all here because we enjoy the sport of cycling, so always remember that cycling is fun, and if there is something you can do to make another rider smile, do it!

Don't halfwheel- halfwheeling is used to describe two scenarios, both of which we should avoid in group cycling scenarios. 1. Overlapping wheels, where a rider's front wheel remains in line with another rider's back wheel. This creates higher potential for crash, especially if the front rider unexpectedly moves to one side. 2. When two riders are side by side and one rider is slightly pushing the pace by continually pulling their wheel ahead of the other rider, such that the pace continues to increase and the group eventually breaks apart. Where road and traffic conditions allow, riders may ride evenly side by side, or directly behind each other. All riders should remain aware of how their speed affects the other riders. Don't show up for a group ride if you don't actually want to ride in a group.

Don't pass on the right-with the exception of pulling off from your pull at the front of a paceline, you should not unexpectedly pass other riders on the right hand side as this could cause potential collisions.

Don't cross the yellow line-when traffic and road conditions can safely allow, riders may take up all or part of the lane of traffic accordig with local laws, but do not cross the yellow line. Always ride safely within your limits and within the laws.

Groups for Road Rides

Road rides will typically separate into different groups based on average moving speeds. Note that speeds can vary based on the riders in attendance each day, as well as weather and route considerations. We ask that riders self select the group that best matches their abilities. If in doubt, start with the slower group and move up from there. Similarly, we ask that stronger riders who choose to join a slower group respect the pace of the slower riders by moderating your speed such that the other riders can draft off your wheel. If you find it challenging to stay within drafting distance at the front of the group, try sweeping up the rear instead. The intent of a group ride is to ride in a group after all! A groups can be drop rides, but B and C groups are no-drop. If leaving a ride early, let the leader or another group member know.

C group will be no-drop with moving average of 20-22km/h.
This group will generally work to stick together at the speed of the slowest rider.

B (23-25 km/h) and B+ (26-28km/h)
groups will re-group after hills and at intersections so that the group can stay together, and are no drop.

A group is the fastest group averaging 28-30km/h.
This group can be a drop group, check with the group before departing.

Preparing for your Road or Gravel Ride

Prior to every ride you should ensure that your bike is ready to go with your tire pressures, brakes, axles, and drivetrain all in good working order.

Every rider should carry supplies to deal with a flat tire appropriate for their set up such as spare tire, tire levers, pump, C02, patch kit, bacon strips/ tire plugs.

Riders should also carry hydration and fuel appropriate for their needs and the length of the ride. A little more than you think you need can be a very good idea. In the case of possible imclement weather, carrying extra layers such as arm warmers, vest, or jacket may be advisable.

Gravel rides often include remote areas without vehicle access or cell service, so plan accordingly, and where applicable bring additional supplies in case of unexpected delays.

Where routes are posted ahead of time, take a moment to download to your gps and/or study ahead of time so that you know what to expect.

Every participant on our rides is expected to look out for other riders so that the experience is as safe and fun as possible for all.