Ride Etiquette

• Follow the instructions of the ride leader: your safety may depend on it.
• Ride together as a group at all times so that no one gets left behind.
• Riding 2 abreast is normal, but single out for narrow or busy roads and blind bends.
• Never ride more than 2 abreast unless deliberately changing position in the line.
• Follow the wheel in front closely; a slight offset is acceptable but do not overlap.
• In wet or slippery conditions, allow a little more space to the next wheel.
• Pedal smoothly and continuously: no sudden movements or changes of pace.
• Be gentle with the brakes: slow down by sitting up and moving into the wind.
• If standing up, do so smoothly without throwing your bike backwards.
• Maintain momentum: ride through the top of climbs and the bottom of dips.
• Hold your line in corners: do not swing wide or cut in.
• When riding on the front, avoid surging, gapping or half-wheeling.
• Where there is 2-way traffic, always keep to the left of the centre line of the road.
• Spot and point out significant road hazards, but don’t overreact to them.
• Use the correct hand signals and verbal warnings, and pass them along the line.
• If you (or anyone else) are falling behind, call “half a notch” in good time.
• In the event of a puncture or breakdown, shout “mechanical” to stop the group.
• Answer calls of nature in a discreet location away from the road.
• Save eating, drinking, chatting and adjusting clothing for further back in the group.