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 associated with cycling on public roads.
- Responsibility for riding within their own capabilities.
- Following the directions and decisions of the ride leader.
- Helmets are compulsory.
You are expected to have a roadworthy bike and carry the tools and spares to carry out 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.
Rear lights are recommended all year round.
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, but 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 and you’ll ensure everyone stays in a safe position.
- 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.
- Overlapping your front wheel with the rear wheel of the rider in front could cause you to crash.
Communicate
- Communicate with riders around you so they know about any hazards and what you are doing.
- Pointing out potholes, gravel, branches, dead pheasants and other obstacles help 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..
Kirkby Lonsdale Cycling Club 