How We Ride

The Basics
As a road cyclist we must respect other road users and the Highway Code at all times. As a club, we want to give other road users a positive impression of cyclists, so always thank motorists when they have shown courtesy, patience or consideration.

If you are new member then please also check our section “how to ride in a group” which provides more information and also some useful videos to help build confidence before you join a group.

Two abreast
Wherever possible, we ride two abreast as it is safer to be a smaller and more compact group on the road. Typically a group will 6 to 8 riders, but never more than 10. The Ride Leaders will dictate when the group breaks into single file, usually this will be on busier roads or minor roads with bends and blind spots.

Keep it tight
Try to keep a tight peloton and endeavour to ride as close to the wheel of the rider in front of you as you can. The more compact the group, the safer it is on the road and the greater the slipstream benefit.

Be Consistent
When riding on the front, keep the pace consistent and try not to surge or increase the speed unexpectedly. Be aware of any riders in the group who may be struggling if the pace increases and reduce the speed as necessary.

Equally, do not decrease the speed suddenly or aggressively apply the brakes. Endeavour to make your speed consistent and smooth and be alert to hazards ahead that may cause you to have to slow.

No half-wheeling and no overlapping
Avoid half-wheeling and wheel overlapping as it can be dangerous when riding in a group. At all times try to maintain a steady pace and stay level with the rider beside you. This is especially important if you are riding on the front of the group.

When it is your turn at the front, your role as peloton pace setter is to maintain a steady speed; do not surge ahead (half-wheel).  It is essential to maintain good communication with your peloton lead partner and control the pace.

When in the peloton, try and maintain a small gap between you and the rider in front, do not overlap your front wheel with the rear wheel of the rider in front (overlapping). 

 

When the two riders leading the peloton have decided its time to transition, they will signal to the rest of the group and make the call to “Rotate”

 

There are many ways to transition the group but the Oakley Pedalars follows a simple approach where the whole group rotates in an anti-clockwise direction. The two front riders now sit in second and third position on the left hand side in the group. The two riders previously in the second and third position on the right hand side take their position at the front.