Group riding is great way to meet fellow people that cycle and make new friends. The vast majority of rides result in a great experience for all involved.
Riding in a group can be significantly safer and more fun than riding alone. Being in a group makes us more visible to motorists and pairs newer riders with those that have more experience. Most importantly, if something should happen, whether a minor mechanical issue or a crash, you are not alone.
Because cycling is not without risk and we want all participants to have a great experience, RASC riders and leaders must conform to strict etiquette and safety guidelines.
- Rides will start on time, we do not wait for late arrivals.
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- Arrive at least 10 minutes before the ride and be ready to roll out before the starting time.
- Check in with your ride leader before the start time.
- Bring your own gear
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- Helmet (required)
- Spare tube, and tools to fix a flat
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- We can usually help you fix a flat, but you'll need to provide a spare tube :)
- Water
- Lights (Front and rear)
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- Rides often finish around sunset and sometimes after dark.
- Cell phone
- Sunglasses
- ID / Money / etc
- Bike computer / GPS tracker (optional)
- Your enthusiasm and eagerness to have a fun time!
- Keep your bike in good condition. Need a tune-up? Our Affiliates pages list some great bike shops in town that can help you tune up your ride. Some bike shops give discounts to RASC members.
- Club Rules
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- Helmets are required on all RASC rides
- No ear buds
- Aerobars cannot be used on RASC rides
- Participants must sign a waiver (Member signatures are associated with your account)
- Membership and waiver information can be found here.
- Local/State laws
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- Obey all traffic laws
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- DO NOT run stop signs or stop lights
- If you fall behind, DO NOT run a stop light or sign to catch up.
- Whenever possible, groups should proceed through an intersection together. Groups will regroup at a (nearby) safe location when part of the group does not make a stop light or sign.
- Ask your group leader or a more experienced rider if you have questions about any laws or safety guidelines.
- Pace line guidelines
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- Group leaders will cover guidelines for riding in a pace line prior to/during the ride.
- Hand signals must be used
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- Riders must signal and/or word call changes in speed and stops
- Riders must signal any change in left or right position, in addition to turns.
- When in front (or middle), avoid and point out road hazards to the group.
- Do NOT brake suddenly or swerve!
- Do NOT overlap the wheel of the rider in front of you
- Most importantly: DO NOT DO ANYTHING UNEXPECTED.
- Arrive at least 15 minutes before the ride
- Introduce self to new riders
- Ensure all guests have signed a waiver
- Review safety and paceline guidelines
- Keep the group together riding at the posted speed
- Know the route
- If a group has more than 16 riders, it should be split into multiple groups.