What To Bring On A Ride

• A suitable bike helmet - no helmet, no ride!

• ​An appropriate bike suitable for the type of riding you are going on. If in doubt check with the ride leader.

• Your bike should be in good working order. If in doubt, have it checked over by a local bike shop or qualified mechanic.

• Carry spares, at least an inner tube, pump and tyre levers.  Chain links are also invaluable.

• If going on a technical ride then a dropper post is a must.

• Dress for the weather and bring a spare layer; a waterproof that can be rolled up and kept in a pocket is a good idea whatever the forecast.

• Bring water and some snacks to ensure you stay properly fuelled, plus a picnic or cash for lunch if out all day – it’s a good idea to find out if there will be somewhere to buy lunch from the ride leader.

• Good lights are essential if there is any chance of riding in the dark or poor visibility.

• ICE - Bring a mobile phone and have your ICE enabled (In Case of Emergency - see below for instructions)

 
At The Beginning Of The Ride

• If you are new to a group, let the ride leader know. They will look after you.

• You must wear a suitable helmet. No helmet, no ride!

• You will be asked to complete a guest registration form or signing on sheet with your emergency contact details. [Question: This does not currently happen but should it?]

 
During The Ride

• You are ultimately responsible for your own safety.

• The club insurance does not cover individual riders. If you wish to have public liability or injury insurance then you should arrange for such cover yourself. Some bike insurance policies cover these aspects but you would need to check for yourself.

• Keep in mind that ride leaders are volunteers and listen carefully to any instructions. Let them lead!

• Listen carefully to all instructions from ride leaders and experienced riders.

• Do not overtake the ride leader unless asked too.

• If you fall behind, don’t worry – your group should wait for you at the next junction or at the top of a climb.

• Keep behind the ride leader.

• Abide by the Highway and Countryside Codes.

• Drop into single file on narrow or busy roads, unless it would be unsafe to do so.

• Show courtesy to other road and trail users, ride leaders and fellow riders and be a good ambassador for cycling and the club.

• Be alert to what other riders around you are doing and don’t get too close to them.

• Shout ‘Slowing!’ or ‘Stopping!’ if necessary – smooth, gentle manoeuvres work best.

• Point out any road defects or other hazards to others.

• Keep in contact with the rider in front of you and the rider behind you. If the rider behind you is falling behind tell the rider in front so they can pass the message on to the ride leader.

• When faced with a feature / terrain you are uncomfortable with, speak up. Other more experienced riders will advise / assist. Mountain Biking is a risky pastime but do not put yourself at more risk that is necessary.

• If you feel the pace is too fast then communicate this to the ride leader.

• Riders also have responsibilities – it’s not all on the ride leader’s shoulders. Let’s look after each other.

• If you wish to leave the ride, let the ride leader know first.

• Have fun and come back for more!

 
See below for more useful guides on the Cycling UK Website:
https://www.cyclinguk.org/cycling-uk-project-or-section/how-guides
 
Want To Lead Rides?

• Once you have been riding with a group for a while, you might think you'd like to have a go at leading a ride yourself. It is easier than you think, as long as you follow the guidance set out in our Ride Leader Toolkit. 

• We also have a free online ride leader training course aimed at people who ride with our member groups throughout spring 2023 so have a word with your group secretary to find out if you would be eligible for it. 

• Remember that being the ride leader usually means you can plan the rides you would most like to do yourself!
   

How to Enable Emergency Contacts On you Mobile
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