How Not To Be A D**k On A Group Ride with GCN
Source: GCN Youtube Channel: How Not To Be A D**k On A Group Ride
Video How Not To Be A D**k On A Group Ride with Global Cycling Network
Video How Not To Be A D**k On A Group Ride with Global Cycling Network YouTube Channel.
How Not To Be A D**k On A Group Ride
Group Cycling Etiquette: How to Have a Great Ride with Your Mates
When it comes to cycling, there’s nothing quite like hitting the road with a group of friends. The camaraderie, the shared experience, the mutual love for the sport – it’s all part of what makes group rides so enjoyable. However, there are certain behaviors and habits that can ruin the experience for everyone involved. In this video, we’ll discuss the dos and don’ts of group cycling to ensure that every ride with your mates is a great one.
1. Signaling and Communicating
One of the most important aspects of riding in a group is signaling and communicating effectively with those around you. This includes warning others of potential hazards on the road, such as potholes or rocks, and slowing down when necessary. Signaling should be done with plenty of warning to ensure that everyone in the group has time to react and avoid any dangerous situations. Additionally, communicating with those around you is essential for the safety and enjoyment of the ride.
2. Snot Rocket Etiquette
Blowing your nose or clearing your sinuses may be a natural instinct while riding, but it’s important to be considerate of those around you in a group setting. Instead of releasing a “snot rocket” into the path of your fellow riders, be sure to move off to the side of the group before doing so. This small gesture can go a long way in maintaining a pleasant and hygienic environment for everyone on the ride.
3. Avoid Half-Wheeling
Half-wheeling, or pushing your front wheel slightly ahead of the rider next to you, can disrupt the pace and rhythm of the group. It’s important to ride level with those around you based on an agreed constant pace before the ride starts. This ensures that everyone is cycling together smoothly, without anyone feeling left behind or pushed beyond their limits.
4. Match Fitness Levels Before the Ride
Before embarking on a group ride, it’s crucial to ensure that everyone’s fitness and cycling skills are relatively similar. This ensures that the pace and intensity of the ride are suitable for everyone involved, preventing tension and dissatisfaction. Communicating beforehand about the ride’s length and intensity can help avoid any surprises and ensure that everyone has an enjoyable experience.
5. Sharing and Sticking to the Route
Sharing the route with everyone on the group ride is crucial for everyone to know what to expect. This includes the duration of the ride, the planned stops, and any potential detours. By sticking to the agreed-upon route, everyone can avoid confusion and prevent unnecessary arguments or disagreements about the ride’s direction. Additionally, sharing the route beforehand allows participants to prepare accordingly for the ride.
6. Group Responsibility and Punctuality
Lastly, it’s important to emphasize the importance of group responsibility and punctuality. When someone in the group encounters an issue, such as a puncture or running out of food, it’s essential for the rest of the group to come to their aid. On the flip side, consistently encountering problems on every ride may lead to group members feeling less inclined to ride with the individual in question. Additionally, punctuality is crucial for starting the ride on time and ensuring that everyone can join or catch up as needed.
In conclusion, riding with a group of friends can be an amazing experience, but it requires a certain level of consideration, communication, and preparation. By following the dos and don’ts of group cycling, everyone can have an enjoyable and harmonious ride with their mates. And remember, the most important thing is to have fun and support each other as you navigate the roads together. Happy riding!
The opinions expressed in this space are the sole responsibility of the YouTube Channel Global Cycling Network and do not necessarily represent the views of CicloNews.
