Group
Riding Tips
Are you a natural
born leader or follower? As in other aspects of life,
in group riding it's essential to understand the importance
of both roles. If you automatically blaze the trail, remember
to be considerate to your fellow cyclists who might not
have your expertise.
1
Be consistent in your efforts, keeping even pressure on
the pedals. When climbing, switch to a lower gear before
you stand, to maintain a steady forward pace. Likewise
when averting obstacles, do do with care, gradually steering
clear of them and calling out a warning to those behind
you.
2
When approaching a turn, alert the group by pointing
in that direction. This simple gesture is often easier
to interpret, especially for novice group cyclists. Vocal
signals such as "Turn left" or "Swerve
right," help reinforce hand signals when you
have a large group.
3
For followers in the group. NO TAILGAITING! New
cycling friends will remain friends if they can avoid
overlapping or bumping wheels, or heaven forbid, causing
a spill.
4
All members of the group should help guide the
others if some stray too far into the road. Alerting them
with a firm "Car back" will encourage
all to tuck and let cars pass.
FACTS
Most accidents
on Bike Virginia stem from 1) biking too fast for conditions,
2) following another cyclist too closely. The prevention
tip for the first would be: use some common sense. The
second tip is even simpler: "Back Off!" Always
remember:
YOU
ARE ON UNFAMILIAR ROADS --
CONTROL
YOUR SPEED!
