Someone Has To Be Prepared
When riding in a group anything can happen. Breakdowns can and will happen. It’s only a matter of time. Many times they are simple things that can be rectified with a few standard tools.
This tip is that someone in the group should always be carrying tools. Just a basic set will do. That way if someone’s mirror loosens up, no problem, loose battery cable, no problem. You get the idea.
Hey, Wait For Me I’m Empty
If you have ever organized a group ride you would know there is a lot of planning that goes into it. You need to come up with a ride idea, plan out the most she/scenic route, figure out your food and gas stops, and somehow put it all together in a way that can accommodate everyone’s riding needs and make it fun.
There is nothing worse than doing all this work and on the day of the ride people show up unprepared. So remember, anytime you are involved in a group ride of any kind, make sure you show up for that ride with a full tank of gas, a full belly, and an empty bladder. Unless of course, you are meeting for breakfast!!! Please see our Group Riding post for full details on group riding.
What Stop Sign?
When riding in a group it’s very easy to become obsessed with what the group is doing and forget to watch for traffic lights, speed limits, and stop signs. This can cause serious injury or death to either you or others. Unless you are in an “Escorted” ride where intersections are being blocked by the proper authorities, you need to obey all traffic laws.
If you have followed my advice in my ” Group Riding” article you will have collected the itinerary of the complete route with stops. This way if you get separated at a light, stop sign, or the group is riding too fast, you can always catch up to them at the next stop.
