Group Ride Reminders

• Posted on 5 June 2021
• By KW
• 0

Now that group rides are coming back, we need to make sure everyone is on the same page as far as etiquette, rules, and expectations.

Wow, it was a long year without group rides, wasn't it?  All that riding by yourself, no one to take a pull for you, no one to complain with about the wind or the hills...  Fret not, my friends - group riding is back for 2021, and we are as excited as you are!  There are some things we need everyone to know and do in a group ride to keeps all having fun, so we thought it would be a good idea to make sure everyone is literally on the same page by writing it all down.  These bits of etiquette help everyone to get along and have a good ride.

First of all, and new this year, is the idea that we will begin our rides from the shop.  This will mean several very positive things, like being able to do some quick shopping before the ride begins, but it will also come with a little more traffic interaction for all the groups.  We want everyone to be as safe as possible, of course, so please be ready for that change.

Basic, fundamental, you-can't-ride-before-understanding-these rules:

 - Every rider must wear a helmet.

 - We'd like to clip in and get rolling at 6:30, so plan ahead.

Some general road rules, since eveyone will be starting on the road (even to ride to Upper Mac):

 - Ride single file as much as possible.  Two abreast is legal, but let's keep it to where there is less/no traffic.  No more than two riders in a line at any time!

 - Be aware of your surroundings at all times.  It's been a year of basically solo or very small group rides; riding in a larger pack may take some getting used to.

 - Signal, signal, signal.  Make sure your fellow cyclists are aware of what you're about to do, whether that's verbally or with hand signals.  

 - Watch for cars.  We will be riding on public, open roads where traffic exists.  We have tried to plan routes to avoid as much traffic as possible, but be aware of cars and trucks.

 - Road rules apply as listed in the Michigan Motor Vehicle Code.

One more thing:

**Please remember to always ride within your own ability.  (Be aware that your confidence and your ability may not be the same!)  There is no shame in walking part of the trail, or going at a slower pace if you need to.  We will have a "sweeper" on the trail to make sure no one gets lost, and for the first week or two the road ride will be a "no drop" as well.**

We are really (REALLY) looking forward to these rides this summer, and we hope that you are excited, too.