Group cycling

The objective of our group ride is to build aerobic fitness and stamina, as well as being sociable and a great way to get to know your clubmates. This is not where you show how fast you can go – save it for Race day or our Time Trial.

PREPARATION:

• Do a quick check of your bike – tyre pressure and condition, working brakes and wheel skewers tightened.
• Have at least one spare tube, levers, a hand pump or gas.
• Bring at least one full drink and a small snack
• Tri Bars should not be used on a group cycle 
• Dress appropriately for the weather conditions – below 10oC wear leggings, gloves and shoe covers. Sunscreen is always a good idea even on the dullest day and there’s no harm in a bit of HiViz.

BEFORE SET OFF

• Choose a group realistically based on your current fitness level and ability to maintain the advised average speed and distance.
• We try to choose routes where the wind will be at our backs on the home leg.
• If in doubt, confirm the expected distance and speed.

ON THE ROAD

• • Observe the rules of the road at all times.
  • We cycle in a 2 abreast formation, taking turns at the front
  • The front left cyclist maintains a steady effort, the front right bike at their side, the chain continuing in pairs. After an interval, the front right cyclist will ‘ROLL UP’ and take the front left position, with all other bikes on the chain moving also.
  • Communication is key, especially at the front call and Hazards or directions early – use a call AND hand signal where possible.
    • Left – Hazard on the left ( eg Pothole, stone, branch down etc)
    • Right – Hazard is on the right
    • Centre – Hazard is between the 2 front riders

• Turning Left

• Turning Right

• Straight on – on roundabouts/junctions

• • • Clear – no oncoming traffic at a junction or roundabout
    • Slowing – brakes being applied eg approaching traffic lights or roundabout.

• Stopping – full brakes being applied

 

• In the event of a puncture or mechanical problem – pull in at a safe place and call up there is a problem. 2 or 3 riders should try to assist, while the others should cycle up the road 5 mins then turn around and come back. (Everyone stopping means everyone gets cold)
• If you are finding the pace too much (everyone has a bad day) please speak up, we can pull the pace back a notch, rather than anyone being left alone to get home.

AND FINALLY:

• Safety is paramount – everything you do has a knock-on effect on everyone behind and beside you. 
• We will build in coffee stops near home when we can ( particularly on fine days) so don’t be shy.
• ALWAYS stop, uncleat and walk across the level crossing on the Dublin Rd – we’ve seen way too many riders go down here.
• Enjoy!