1. Introduction

Whatever your interest in cycling, riding safely is of paramount importance. And riding in a bunch is radically different from riding alone, it only works if all cyclists act consistently and stay alert. If we all understand our responsibilities, both within the bunch and generally, it will help protect us and our fellow cyclists.

2. Before the Ride

• Choose the right group for your riding style: Speak to a club member if you're unsure which group suits your pace and experience.

• Be prepared: Bring water, snacks, money, ID, and a mobile phone. Carry basic repair gear: pump, 2 inner tubes, tyre levers, and a multitool.

• Helmets are MANDATORY. Mitts/gloves are strongly recommended

• Check your bike: It should be roadworthy with working brakes and serviceable tyres which are correctly inflated; lights are recommended.

• Dress appropriately: Prepare for changing weather.

• Mudguards are appreciated in wet conditions.

• Download the route from the website or WhatsApp group and know your ride leader.

• Have emergency contact details in case of emergency.

3. On the Ride

• Ride together, club rides are not races! We ride at a steady, sustainable pace andregroup after climbs.

• Slow down for horses. Call ahead “coming by”. Single out, avoid squeaky brakes and loud freewheels.

• Where possible, traverse junctions as a group (e.g. crossing a main road together). Move off together.

• On a shallow descent, the front rider should keep pedaling to avoid those behind having to brake.

• Narrow and/or steep descents can be dangerous. The group should spread out and ride in single file, with the leading rider reducing their speed if needed to keep things safe. Regroup afterwards.

• No one gets left behind: If someone is struggling, ease up. Let the ride leader know if you need to stop or leave the group. Consider having a lanterne rouge in a group to check no-one is left behind.

• Ride predictably: Hold your line, avoid sudden braking or surges, and don’t overlap wheels.

• Ride in formation: Two abreast when safe, single file on narrow or busy roads. Outside riders ease off to slot in when singling out.

• Group size: Ideally 6 riders, but no more than 8 riders per group. Know your group size!

• Communicate clearly: Use hand signals and verbal calls to warn of hazards, changes in pace, or group actions.

4. Common Calls & Signals

• “Car up”/ “Car back” – Vehicle approaching from ahead/behind

• “Hole” / Pointing – Hazard on the road

• “Slowing” and “stopping” / Patting down – Slow down, prepare to stop

• “Single out” – Move to single file

• “Mechanical” / Hand up – Rider needs to stop

• “All up” – Group is back together

• “Coming by” – to let horse riders know you will be passing them

• Hand behind back pointing away from the hazard (move backwards & forwards) – Move out to avoid obstacle

• Hand pointing down, moving from side to side – obstacle across the road ((e.g. a speed ramp).)

• Directional signals – Indicate turns to other road users

5. Group Courtesy

• Respect others: Be courteous to fellow riders and all road users. No shouting or gesturing at drivers.

• No half-wheeling: Keep pace with your partner, don’t charge ahead.

• Rotate the lead: Share the effort at the front and communicate pace changes.

• Support new riders: Everyone, but specifically ride leaders, should help them feel welcome and safe. If you need to leave the group, let the ride leader know.

6. Mechanical Issues

Everyone in the group stops to help. Riders should be able to fix basic issues like punctures. For major problems, ensure that the affected rider has a clear recovery plan (e.g., has called someone to be picked up), agree the plan before the group continues onward.

7. Club Kit & Identity

Wearing club kit helps with visibility and group cohesion. It’s encouraged on all rides.