Rider Awareness

Group riding is great fun, though you need to maintain awareness for the safety of yourself and your fellow riders.

1. Listen to the briefing

Depending on the route, group size and number of ride leaders, briefings will vary. They are there to help keep everyone safe, so listen carefully.

2. Follow instructions

Sounds obvious, I know! If any instructions are unclear, ask for clarification. Your fellow riders may have the same question.

3. Stay alert

Be aware of your surroundings, fellow riders, traffic and pedestrians. Any of these can present a hazard, sometimes with little warning.

4. Take care when stopping

Extra care is needed when a group slows down or stops. Help pass on calls from the ride leader, such as “Slowing” and “Stopping”, so riders further back have time to react.

5. Choose where to stop

With enough notice, you can choose a sensible place to stop rather than simply stopping behind the rider in front. Leave enough space for others and avoid creating a hazard.

6. Stopping at junctions

It can be difficult for a group to get through a junction together. Be ready to move when it is safe, but never rush or take risks to keep the group together. Follow the ride leader's instructions and obey traffic signals.

7. Stopping for instructions

Your ride leader will try to stop the group where there is enough space. Stop where you won't obstruct vehicles, pedestrians or other road users, and leave room for the rest of the group.

8. Changing situations

If changing weather, clothing, ride pace, ride duration or other circumstances are affecting your comfort or ability to ride safely, speak to the ride leader or back marker. It's better to raise a concern early.

9. Group awareness (strung out)

A long line of riders can make overtaking difficult for vehicles. Where it is safe and appropriate, ride two abreast and maintain a steady, compact group, leaving a sensible gap between bikes. Follow your ride leader's guidance and single out when necessary.

10. Group awareness (coffee stop)

Be organised and ready to ride when the coffee stop ends. This means taking a loo break, refilling your water bottle, unlocking your bike and securing your bags in good time.

11. Group awareness (calls and signals)

Once you have mastered looking after yourself, you can help the group by passing on appropriate calls and signals. Look out for hazards such as potholes and parked cars, and warn following riders when it is safe to do so.

12. Think cycle safety

For more comprehensive cycle safety advice, take a look at resources such as THINK! Cycle Safety:

https://www.think.gov.uk/cycle-safety/

Remember: Always ride within your capabilities.