Group Riding Basics & Etiquette

  • The group will arrange itself into two parallel lines with gaps around a wheel length between riders.
  • Speed of the group is controlled by the Rider on the Front Left. Riders behind should call if the pace is too fast and causing the group to split. Rider on the front right should not attempt to increase the pace by riding faster or ‘half wheeling’.
  • On the call of ‘change’ by the Road Captain, the formation shall change in an anti-clockwise motion. The rider on the front left shall slow his/her pedal stroke slightly allowing the rider on the front right to move in front and pull in to the left.
  • On the call of change, the rider on the front right should not accelerate to move ahead, as this causes the group to split.
  • Remember that riders actions at the front of the group will be repeated and exaggerated by riders behind. Therefore do not employ any sudden braking/acceleration or left/right movements, these could lead to crashes further back in the group.
  • Smooth riders are good group riders.

Killinchy CC Etiquette

  • Observe the rules of the road/highway code https://www.gov.uk/rules-for-cyclists-59-to-82
  • Keep your front wheel a safe distance behind and slightly to the side of the rear wheel in front.
  • Always check behind and signal before manoeuvre.
  • Scan the road ahead and know your surroundings so you can react in time.
  • Riders at the front to signal/call to other riders if there are upcoming obstacles. The call should be relayed down the group and a smooth motion to avoid the obstacle.
  • Leave bigger gaps when descending.
  • Cyclist at rear to call “car up” for cars approaching from behind; and “single up” if required.
  • Lead cyclist to call “car down” when cars are approaching from ahead.
  • Maximum of two abreast and single up when holding traffic up and on narrow roads.
  • Never cycle on the wrong side of road or cross the white line where present.
  • Never pass on the inside of the person in front of you. Always pass on the outside and only when the road is clear behind as well as in front.
  • Ride and change position at a steady pace, keeping the pack as a compact unit.
  • Don’t make any sudden movements – the cyclist behind is putting his/her trust in you.
  • No mp3s/ipods
  • No helmet no ride.