Group Riding Skills

Michael and Emmie on a tandem wrapped up for winter riding. It may be sociable, but is it safe or steady to let Emmie on the front?

The Triple 'S' of Serpie Sunday Rides

SAFE – it is your responsibility to turn up with a roadworthy bike and the right kit to look after yourself. During the ride you must follow the rules of group riding. Dress according to the weather and pack everything you are going to need. You are responsible for your own and everyone else's safety. Ride carefully according to the road and weather conditions.

SOCIABLE – everyone is welcome, make sure you read and understand the rules below before coming on a Sunday ride.

STEADY – Ride at a steady pace; Sunday Rides are not a race and you should ride in a way that keeps the group together. Re-group after junctions and at the top of climbs.

The 'Rules'

DO Communicate – both verbally to the group, and with signals both to the group and to other road users. Signalling lets everyone know your intentions, making you predictable and safe.

DO Be Steady – this includes speed and line, steady pressure on the pedals, controlling spacing with body position instead of using the brakes.

DO Announce Hazards – if you are at the front of the group, you must act as the eyes and ears for everyone following. Be vocal when approaching junctions, slowing down, stopping or turning, actions should be smooth and deliberate. Riders behind the leaders should relay messages to the rear of the group.

DO Relax – this allows you to be smooth and responsive, someone riding a straight steady line is relaxed on the bike, it makes bike handling more effective and saves valuable energy.

DO Ride Two Abreast – but be prepared to ride single file in busy traffic on narrow roads or where conditions demand it.

DO Re-group – at the top of hills, after traffic light or junctions where the group may break up temporarily.

DON’T Use Tri Bars – they are for riding alone, not for drafting in a group.

DON’T Leave Anyone Behind – if someone drops off the pace, use your voice and let the leaders know – they should soft pedal until the group is back together.

DON’T Overlap Wheels – riders should follow the wheel in front but not let their front wheel overlap the back wheel of the rider in front, it is the most common cause of a crash in a group.

DON’T Make Sudden Movements – braking suddenly or altering your course unannounced will mean havoc for the riders behind you.

DON’T Let Gaps Open Up – you may be having a nice chat to the person beside you but if there is a gap opening up in front of you and the rider in front you should fill it to prevent the group breaking up.