Why group rides should be organized
Rides are better enjoyed when they’re organized
Organizing a group ride is sometimes overlooked by cyclists as the majority schedule rides without considering the responsibility of being the organizer of the ride. Having an unorganized group ride can cause quarrel between cyclists or motorists, and in the worst case, accidents to not just the cyclists but also the motorists around group.
Here are some things to remember when organizing a group ride:
Choose a speed that the slowest in the group can maintain
New research from the running community says that it is better to run slower longer than it is at faster speeds. Running slowly is the best way to build endurance, which you need to run long distances.
Link: https://www.self.com/story/how-running-slow-helps-you-get-faster
When turning at corners or intersections, some of the lead pack stops and checks if all cyclists are properly signaled to the direction of the route.
This is crucial as it prevents other cyclists from getting lost or wandering off as some of the cyclists are either new to the route or don’t know the whole place.
Assign ride leader and sweepers
These people should be replaced by the rider directly behind or ahead of him.
Ride Leader
Maintains pace and direction of the group. Checks on the condition of the riders as a whole.
Sweeper
Maintains and supervise the end of the peloton. The sweeper is also responsible for boosting the morale of fatigued bikers and are at times, the semi-mechanic of the group — helping bikers with flat tires or in dealing with other mechanical issues during the ride. Sweepers look out for each other.
Follow traffic rules
Signalling
When there is a change in direction, road hazards, obstruction, this is best done by hand gestures and verbal cues.
(Check our article about “Tips you need to know when cycling on a busy road”)
Keep an agreed distance between riders
Half a bike at least. But it depends on you as drafting does occur just an inch between riders. But so does the risk of collision.
Those are the minimum points to be discussed by the leader at the start. Here are the others to keep in mind:
Bring your wallet and cellphone
Can’t go without ‘em!
Radios for ride leaders and sweepers
This can be handy if you’re dealing with a large peloton for easy communication for ride leaders, marshals, and sweepers.
Assigned haulers for equipment
Reliability and resourcefulness in times of need is the main benefit having haulers with equipment provide. Not entirely necessary (as most would bring their own repair kits) but great when you’re in large groups.
Mindfulness of others
Having presence of mind at all times in the ride is crucial for all cyclists to avoid accidents and collisions.
“ This would be a recurring theme in my write ups. As I see this as crucial to every successful ride whatever the destination and objective. You are not in a bubble. You have companion riders. You have other road users, and you have to keep them in mind too. And after all that, Pray to God for safety. ” — Joey Tan
Credits to Joey Tan for contributing this article.
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