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Rider Responsibilities


Common Sense Guidelines for Club Riding

  • Stay together. Groups are more social, visible and better able to handle emergencies. In the event of a breakdown or flat, at least one other member should stop until the problem is rectified. Wait at turns to be sure that everyone riding in your group makes the turn and understands the proper route. When a large group breaks up into smaller groups at different paces, be aware of who is riding in your group and make sure that they are not left behind, unless they voluntarily drop back to join a slower group. Do not leave slower riders unaccompanied unless you are sure that they have the option of riding with another group at their pace. For smaller groups, common courtesy and common sense is expected; even if you must ride at a slower than anticipated pace.
  • Be on time. All scheduled rides depart at the scheduled time. Plan to arrive a few minutes early so you won’t be rushed and can depart with the group.
  • When a ride has a ride leader, the leader should designate a rider to ride clean-up (the last rider). This rider should have the capacity of helping with any situation which could arise: an accident, a lost rider, an exhausted rider, indignant motorist, equipment problems, etc. In the event the assigned ride leader does not show up, a senior member should be responsible to either be or assign a ride leader.
  • For everyone’s safety, either signal or call out your passing, turning, slowing or stopping intentions. Point out any dangers such as glass, potholes, gravel, animals, etc. When riding in a tight paceline, use clear verbal warnings, since hand signals alone cannot always be interpreted in time to avoid danger.
  • The front rider should be aware of traffic. When a vehicle approaches from the front, alert the other riders by calling out ” car up”, from the rear “car back “, use “car right or car left” for a vehicle approaching from the sides.
  • When safety permits, allow vehicles free access to pass. Ride single file, closer to the shoulder and acknowledge their presence. Understand motorist impatience and do NOTHING that might further aggravate them. You are no match for a car and any aggressive action may endanger you or other riders, then. or in the future. Make eye contact with drivers at intersections.
  • Safety is paramount at all times. When using a pace line, ride smoothly and in a straight line. Do not pass other riders on the right side or ride in their blind spots. If you draft, learn proper drafting techniques. If you are an inexperienced group rider, learn by observing and evaluating the correct riding habits of the more experienced riders. If you are an experienced rider, be aware that others are looking to you for guidance and exhibit safe and appropriate riding behavior.
  • Wear something bright and very visible even in the daylight. Motorists may not see you if you wear drab colors that blend with the background.
  • All club members are required to wear a bicycle helmet on club rides. Experience has shown that a helmet is a lifesaver. This rule was added out of consideration for your fellow riders, who will be taking care of you in case of an accident. The use of gloves, eye protection, rearview mirror and carrying some form of emergency identification is recommended. Children riding in a trailer or in a child carrier should also wear a helmet.
  • Inspect your bike and equipment BEFORE the ride. Nothing detracts from the enjoyment of riding more than unnecessary breakdowns. Carry at least one spare tube, frame pump, plus necessary tools (e.g. tire levers to remove the tire from the rim and a patch kit) for emergency repairs of your bike.
  • For practical reasons this is an adult and family club. Unaccompanied riders under the age of 18 years are NOT welcome. Neither the ride leader nor the club will assume any accountability for non-members’ or a club members’ unaccompanied children who happen to be riding along with the club.

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Any questions pertaining to rides or club policy can usually be resolved by calling any CCC Club Officer.
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