1. All scheduled rides depart at
the scheduled time. PLEASE don't be rude / late and expect others
to wait on you. The ride leaves at the scheduled time, so
you just might be left behind. Plan to arrive a few minutes early
so you won't be rushed, be dressed, bike ready, car closed etc.
and can depart with the group.
Corollary: If you are a slower or new rider it is recommended that you
start with the FIRST riders, not the last riders.
THIS IS A CLUB. RIDE TOGETHER. Groups
are more social, visible and better able to handle emergencies.
In the event of a breakdown or flat, at least one other member
should stop until the problem is rectified. Wait at turns
to be sure that everyone riding in your group makes the
turn and understands the proper route. When a large group breaks
up into smaller groups (4 or more) at different paces, be aware of who is
riding in your group and make sure that they are not left
behind, unless they voluntarily drop back to join a slower group.
Do not leave slower riders unaccompanied unless you are sure that
they have the option of riding with another group at their pace.
For smaller groups, common courtesy and common sense is expected;
even if you must ride at a slower than anticipated pace.
At least one designated rider will
act as "ride leader I ride clean-up" (last rider)
on rides where a ride "Leader" is indicated. This rider should
have the capacity of helping with any situation which could arise:
an accident, a lost rider, an exhausted rider, indignant motorist,
equipment problems, etc. In the event the assigned ride leader
does not show up, a senior member should be responisible to either
be or assign a ride leader.
COMMUNICATE with your fellow riders
for everyone's safety. Either signal or call out your passing,
turning, slowing or stopping intentions. Point out any dangers
such as glass, potholes, gravel, animals, etc. When riding in
a tight paceline, use clear verbal warnings, since hand signals
alone cannot always be interpreted in time to avoid danger.
If you leave the group/ route, tell someone.
The first rider to observe a vehicle
approaching from the front should alert the other riders by calling
out " car up", from the rear "car back ", use "car
right or car left" for a vehicle approaching from the sides.
When motorists are nearby, allow them
free access to pass when safety allows (i.e. riding single
file, riding closer to the shoulder, signaling when it is clear
which also acknowledges their presence). Understand motorist impatience
and do NOTHING that might further aggravate them. You are no match
for a car and any aggressive action may endanger you or other
riders, then. or in the future. Make eye contact with drivers
at intersections.
Safety is paramount at all times. Learn
to ride smoothly in a straight line. Do not pass other riders
on the right side or ride in their blind spots. If you draft,
learn proper drafting techniques. If you are an inexperienced
group rider, learn by observing and evaluating the correct riding
habits of the more experienced riders. If you are an experienced
rider, be aware that others are looking to you for guidance and
exhibit safe and appropriate riding behavior.
Wear something bright and very visible
even in the daylight. Motorists may not see you if you wear drab
colors that blend with the background.
It is required that all club members
wear a bicycle helmet on club rides.
Experience has shown that a helmet is a lifesaver.
This rule was added out of consideration for your fellow riders, who
will be taking care of you in case of an accident.
The use of gloves, eye protection, rearview mirror and carrying some form of
emergency identification is recommended.
Children riding in a trailer or in a child carrier should also
wear a helmet (as is required by TN law).
Inspect your bike and equipment BEFORE
the ride. Nothing detracts from the enjoyment of riding more
than unnecessary breakdowns. Carry at least one spare tube, frame
pump, plus necessary tools (e.g. tire levers to remove the tire
from the rim and a patch kit) for emergency repairs of your bike.
For practical reasons this is an adult
and family club. Unaccompanied riders under the age of 18 years
are NOT welcome. Neither the ride leader nor the club will assume
any accountability for non-members' or a club members' unaccompanied
children who happen to be riding along with the club.
Any questions pertaining to rides or
club policy can usually be resolved by calling any KBA Club Officer.