STEAM SPORTS CYCLING

Hi Guys,

• Just some reminders for everyone regarding bunch riding. For many, these points are second nature, but for those in the club that are relatively new to bunch riding it is timely to visit a few points:
• The group should always SHARE information by passing directions along to riders behind or in front - especially if the coach or group leader is at the rear of the group. This is important not only for calling hazards on the road ahead (the job of the guys at the front) but also for cars trying to overtake, swooping birds, dogs off leashes and for making sure everyone understands the group leaders instructions (often the job of riders in the middle or the rear of the pack). Everyone in the group is responsible for sharing information.
• Don't just look at the wheel in front. Pay ATTENTION to what the riders are doing at the lead of the pack and plan your actions accordingly. For example if the riders at the front move to the left to avoid a hole in the road then it should be obvious that the next rider and the one behind will move too.
• Riders, unless otherwise instructed, should ride side by side. The riders should be parallel which means your handle bars should line up with the handle bars of the rider next to you. No HALF-WHEELING - when wheels over lap, danger beckons.
• Brakes should be GENTLY applied while riding in a group - be predictable. Sudden braking usually means information was not shared and riders were not paying attention.
• When DESCENDING, the riders at the front should keep pedaling - this minimises braking of trailing riders
• Ensure WHEEL AXLES are LOCKED properly. A loose locking can mean your wheel may move when you stand to sprint or climb, subsequently locking the wheel and causing a fall. Additionally ensure the locking lugs are not exposed (always closed inwards) - there is less chance your axle will become unlocked if your wheels clash with another bike. The wheel locking point is particularly important if you are driving to the start of the ride and removing one or both wheels in transit.
• We are all training for fitness and improved skills in what is hopefully a friendly and social environment it. Sharing information and riding sensibly leads to safer training.

More Rules…

• Helmets must be worn at all times
• NO IPODS or MP3 players in the bunch at any time for any reason.
• Must obey all road rules (inc stopping at lights, one-way traffic rules)
• Lights on front and back when dark - inside and outside of the park
• No riding on profile/aero-bars in bunch rides ever
• No rear/behind the seat bidon carriers. If you must have them - don't put a bidon in them on one of our rides.
• Ensure shoe cleats are not worn out and screws are firmly fastened
• Check your equipment regularly especially brake pads and tyres

Etiquette

• The bunch stops for all punctures and mechanicals provided the rider has paid for the session
• Riders at the front call and point the direction of any hazards (e.g. rocks left, glass middle, hole right)
• Calls are passed and pointed through the pack - loud and confident voice
• No half-wheeling
• Pacelines roll to the left on all main roads.
• Always carry spare tubes, tyre levers and a pump. If you end up with someone else's tube - you owe them a new tube.