Riders Guide

Rider Responsibility

In riding with Kirkby Lonsdale Cycling Club (KLCC), all riders have accepted:

  • The KLCC Code of Conduct.
  • Their safety is a matter of personal responsibility.
  • The risk linked to cycling on public roads.
  • Responsibility for riding within their own capabilities.
  • Follow the directions and decisions of the ride leader.
  • Helmets are compulsory.
  • A rear light recommended all year and a front light during winter.
  • You are expected to have a roadworthy bike. Carry the tools and spares needed for basic repairs (eg change a tube).
  • You must carry the details of your emergency contact person and number in an accessible place.
  • In winter, please use a mudguard to reduce road spray.

Riding in a group

Riding in a group  can be daunting but gets easier with practice.  Riding in a group is more efficient and it is safer when in traffic.  The following tips outline the etiquette of riding in a group. The most important thing is to keep communicating with riders around you. 

Formation

  • Riding close together [within 2-3 feet of the rider in front and besides]. It makes the group easier to pass, is more social and helps tired riders keep up.
  • Ride directly behind the rider in front .
  • Avoid riding in the gutter, it is full of hazards for you and the the group.
  • Brake smoothly, turn smoothly and make it obvious what you’re doing. This gives other riders time to react and make the ride less stressful.
  • Look ahead through the group and the road ahead to anticipate any changes.

Pace

  • Ride at an inclusive pace when riding on the front and the group will stay together.
  • Stay with your group, and make sure those behind can stay with you.
  • Ride at the pace of the rider beside you, if they slow, you slow.
  • Pedal on downhills when riding on the front so everyone doesn’t run into the back of you.
  • Do not overlap your front wheel with the rear wheel of the rider in front. This action, known as half-wheeling, could cause you and everyone else to crash.

Communicate

  • Communicate with riders around you so they know about any hazards and what you are doing.
  • Identifying obstacles like potholes, gravel, branches, and dead pheasants is crucial. This helps keep the ride free from punctures, lost water bottles, broken wheels, and crashes.

Other road users

  • Warn the group of other road users.
  • A driver’s ability, vision, reactions and even car performance affect when it’s safe to pass.  Leave them to judge and don’t wave them past.
  • Be respectful of other road users – slow down for horses and check with the rider, warn pedestrians etc..