CYCLING GUIDANCE

Each ride is planned in advance by an organizer ( ‘leader’ ) for that ride, and every effort is made to choose routes that are of low hazard.  But inevitably there are times when we have to ride on busier roads, and we try to keep this to a minimum.

Riders are responsible for their own behaviour and riding safety. It is also expected that riders treat all other road users – pedestrians, cyclists and motorists with respect and courtesy, and do nothing to risk their safety. You are expected to obey the law with respect to cycling, and we do not tolerate behaviour that threatens the safety of other road users. Pedestrians can be vulnerable – and cycling on pavements is both illegal and increases the risk to pedestrians. 

Should you be involved in an incident with a third party, then you as an individual will be expected to resolve the matter with that party. Therefore you are expected to have your own insurance. Earlsdon Wheelers are affiliated with Cycling UK and therefore can get discounted rates on individual insurance. Please let us know for further details.

Below are some guidelines to maintaining you bike and promoting safe and enjoyable cycling:

Keep your bike maintained and carry spare tubes and tools

  • Keep your bike well maintained, especially tyres, brakes, gears and wheels.
  • Always carry spare inner tubes, tyre levers and pump. A multi-tool or allen keys and a chain tool are also recommended.
  • Your bike must be fitted with front and rear brakes.
  • Carry a phone and some money for café stops and/or emergencies!
  • Carry some identification and an emergency contact phone number.

Wear suitable clothing and a helmet

  • It is strongly recommended that you always wear a helmet.
  • Wear appropriate clothing for the time of year.
  • Carry a waterproof or windproof top in case the weather is wetter or cooler than anticipated.

Ride safely when in a group!

Follow the highway code and be courteous

  • Ride on the left hand side of the road. When riding in pairs the riders on the right must avoid drifting towards the centre of the road.
  • Respect traffic lights and pedestrian crossings, don’t ride on pavements unless they are cycle paths.
  • Slow down and pass horses with care. Warn the horse rider when approaching from behind and pass slow and wide, in single file if necessary.
  • Be courteous and don’t shout abuse or make offensive gestures to other road users.
  • Stop at junctions. Don’t jump across when vehicles are approaching as other riders may follow you.
  • When pulling up at a junction, stay in two lines: do not scatter across the road. Don’t pass or crowd around vehicles at the junction.
  • Riders on the front should warn of traffic to the right or left and call out when it is clear to cross.

Make sure there is a leader of the group

On a group ride, it’s important that someone knows where the ride is going! So make sure one person in the group is nominated as the leader for the ride. The leader should give clear directions ahead of turns. If the leader happens to be near the back of the group, then make sure that any ride directions are passed forward through the group to the front, so that everyone knows where to turn.C

Communicate

Riders on the front should shout and point out hazards such as potholes, debris, parked cars etc. Warnings should be passed back through the group so that all riders are aware of the danger. Please don’t ignore shouts made by other riders. Listen to calls that are made and react accordingly! Further information can be found at:

https://www.cyclinguk.org/article/campaigns-guide/cycling-tips-24-essential-pieces-riding-advice-beginners

https://www.cyclinguk.org/advice-beginners