CODE OF CONDUCT FOR RIDING
Safety is paramount to the enjoyment of cycling. Awareness & Consideration are key to ensuring an environment that is safe & fun. It is the responsibility of each individual to practise safety in respect of their own actions, as well as their conduct regarding other cyclists, motorists and people on the roads.
As Member of Cycle Lab SuperCycling Club powered by
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT
CLUB KIT - must be worn on all rides.
HELMET – must be worn on all rides.
MITTS Or GLOVES – are important protective gear and should be worn.
LIGHTS (Both Front & Rear) – must utilise whenever riding in the dark; be visible to oncoming cars.
ROAD WORTHINESS – of bicycles & equipment must be maintained.
CELL PHONE – should be carried for safety in event of a breakdown, crash or getting lost etc.
RIDING ETIQUETTE & CONDUCT
BE PREDICTABLE – ride in a consistent manner – keep a line.
INDICATE – before making a move.
CALL OUT HAZARDS – the rider in front is responsible for the one following.
KEEP AN EVEN PACE – do not brake or slow unexpectedly – be aware that there is a compounding effect in the following pack.
STAND WITHOUT DROPPING BACK – call before standing of the saddle & take care not to loose half a wheel.
DO NOT HIT THE BRAKES – look ahead and anticipate.
KEEP ADEQUATE DISTANCE to AVOID OVERLAPPING - be defensive to avoid being bought down.
OBEY THE RULES OF THE ROAD – conduct one’s self with the same consideration as one would expect from any other road user, particularly motorists. Aggressive gesture & behaviour by cyclists will alienate motorists and is likely to lead to endangering other cyclists: -
STOP AT ALL TRAFFIC LIGHTS AND MAJOR INTERSECTIONS – especially where one’s route crosses over an intersection & there is a group of riders following.
DO NOT HOLD UP FOLLOWING TRAFFIC – where ever this practical – i.e. single file on single lane roads where motor vehicles are frequently coming past & treat as a neutral zone. Double file is ok where there is a double lane & preferably a tarred verge. NO STOPPING IN THE ROAD.
CITING DANGEROUS PEOPLE – report to the Club Committee any incidents with motorists or cyclists where their actions endangered cyclists & where they were transgressing any road laws – provide facts and details i.e. dates, registration numbers, motor description, witnesses etc. The Club will trace the motorist and attempt to positively influence them to take more care – a database will be maintained so that more stringent action could be taken in the future e.g. legal proceedings.
MARSHALS – all cyclists are to obey the group marshals at all times. One marshal will set the pace of group while another will control the back of the group.
GROUPING
It is preferable that cyclists of equal ability & fitness ride together. No more than 20 to 30 is a manageable bunch for a Club Ride – therefore bunches should be divided when necessary. It is important to choose a group where one is comfortable & with one’s capability.
“A” & “B” GROUPS – are generally the ‘racing’ bunch and will not be expected to hold back for anyone who cannot keep up.
“C” & “D” GROUPS – are geared towards our social riders & beginners. These groups should stay together and collect stragglers by stopping or slowing from time to time.
Out & Back Rides are intended to ensure that people are not “abandoned” who drop off or have a puncture. Circular or destination routes obviously require care to be taken that people are not simply left – particularly, where it may be unsafe for an individual.
WE STRIVE TO PROVIDE AN ENJOYABLE & SAFE CYCLING ENVIRONMENT FOR OUR MEMBERS AS WELL AS GREATER CYCLING FRATERNITY OF GAUTENG & SOUTH AFRICA. WE ENDEAVOUR TO LEAD BY EXAMPLE AND WE RELY ON EACH OF OUR MEMBERS TO TAKE INDIVIDUAL & COLLECTIVE RESPONSIBILITY TO THIS END.
