Rider Safety and Etiquette
Our club is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all our members and other road users.
While the Club engages in a wide range of ride types in a variety of conditions, one common requirement of all group rides is that members ride in a manner which does not put the safety or enjoyment of other members or themselves at risk.
While this may seem to be common sense, riding in a group is not always easy and we encourage all riders to be mindful of the following guidelines, particularly when riding in larger groups:
- Select Rides which match your skills and fitness levels (talk to ride leader if in doubt). Don’t be afraid to slow down or walk around obstacles if you have concerns, particularly on gravel or MTB rides.
- Stay together or stop periodically as agreed, so no one is left behind or gets lost.
- Look Ahead and scan the road and be alert to changes in road conditions, rider positions or other obstacles. Leave a safe gap (at least >0.5m) from the rider ahead so problems can be anticipated and avoided.
- Warning Calls - alert others by appropriate calls eg: “slowing,” “stopping,” “rider up,” “car back,” “car up,” “hole,” “clear,” or “clear back” when crossing lanes.
- Hand Signals - use when turning, slowing, or stopping, or to point out obstacles. If you are unsure ask the ride leader to explain.
- Leaving the group or stopping - only exit a close group when this can be completed safely without sudden braking or risk or inconvenience to others. Preferably exit from the back of a group and advise others.
- On the Front – the rider leading the group needs to apply extra care and concentration in calling obstacles, holes, traffic lights and in maintaining a good even pace (ie the agreed pace for the ride), while rotating this position as required or agreed. The leader becomes responsible for ensuring the safety of the group.
- No Half-Wheeling - this refers to having your front wheel overlap with the rear wheel of the rider ahead. Don’t let it happen -EVER it is dangerous. You will be one to crash if you connect with the wheel ahead and bring riders behind you down.
- Maintain your Equipment – always carry at least a spare tube, puncture repair kit and pump. Etiquette requires that at least some of the group wait while repairs are performed.
- Ride Leader – most group rides will have a leader or 2-3 people who coordinate the ride. They may not be the fastest or loudest riders in the group but determine the route, speed, stops and other matters to ensure everyone’s enjoyment of the ride. Make it known to the leader if you are new, inexperienced or struggling. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice or assistance.
- Obey Road Rules - The rules of the road still apply to cyclists so obey road rules including not riding more than two abreast (and if so, not more than 1.5m apart).
- Riding in a Peloton – some Club rides involve fast group riding in a more structured Peloton. Riders must be confident in their ability when joining one of these groups. If you are unsure, sit at the back until you are confident. Riding in a peloton is exhilarating when all riders comply with the safety requirements.
Please refer to the following link for more detailed information and some of the unwritten ‘rules” of group cycling:
https://kpcc.org.au/tips-and-etiquette
The above Safety and Etiquette guidelines use material from Kangaroo Point Cycling Club with their consent)
Mountain & Gravel Riding Etiquette
The essence of mountain and gravel biking is about adventure and self-sufficiency.
Only open trails are to be ridden.
Trails will generally be open to all users including walkers, horses etc.
Leave no trace – all waste must be carried out and disposed of correctly.
Yield to walkers, slower moving trail users, uphill riders.
Take what you are going to need and a little more. This includes spare tubes, water and food.
Always ride within your limits.
Never disturb wildlife, cattle, horses or other domestic animals.
Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear.
E-bikes (Class 1 & 3) are accepted on all rides. Make sure you consider non-e-bikes may be slower on many grades. E-Bikes class 2 (with throttle and can be used when not peddling) are not permitted.
Bike Touring / Multi Day Rides
The essence of bike touring is about enjoying the journey between destinations.
Due to the nature of these rides, they will normally be on public regional roads with vehicles travelling at higher speeds.
Types of bike touring include self-sufficient touring, base camp touring, supported touring, self-guided touring and bike-packing.
Have some luggage carrying capacity. Your capacity will depend on the type of tour.
Carry plenty of water and snacks. Top water up at every opportunity, but only from a known water source.
Check your bike and gear mechanically and if necessary, book it in for a service or check. Carry adequate spares for the length of the tour. It is handy to have lights, even if the tour is for daylight hours only in case you are delayed or pass through tunnels.
Maintain a safe distance. Leave gaps between cycling groups to allow vehicles to pass safely.
Always indicate your intention including turns and lane changes, stopping etc.
Ensure you have and understand the days route. Ride leaders will stop to regroup for slower riders. Wrong turns are problematic for everyone.
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