RIDE LEADERS and VARYING ROUTES are two big differences between SBW and other cycling clubs. In addition, our rides are not intentionally “drop rides”, which means the leader tries their best to keep the group together and return with all riders who started the ride ! Within the last year SBW has seen many new faces join our club and with this in mind the Board is posting these Guidelines in order to educate and assist our newer members and remind our older members.

• List the ride in the Ride Schedule either by signing up on line or with the Ride Director
• Plan, know and stick to your route unless bad road or weather conditions warrant a change. Take advantage of Maps available on the website. Route Maps
• All riders must sign and provide an emergency contact number available for download: Sign up Sheet
  
• Please turn in sheets into the Ride Director after the ride.
• Stay within the speed of the posted ride level. Remind a rider of the posted speed if needed. SBW offers different levels so riders can be within their chosen comfort zone – please adhere to the speed for all riders’ benefit.
• Announce turns and route information in advance, giving riders sufficient time to respond safely.
• Stop for all mechanical or other problems riders encounter and continue only when a solution has been reached. Find a safe place for the group to pull over, preferably off main roads and lanes.
• Keep the group together through intersections & traffic lights. Wait if needed.
• Return to the start location with all riders or knowledge of where riders not returning with you are.
• Ask if anyone is a new rider or new to the group. It is a good idea to speak with them and inquire about their cycling experience. Explain the speed of your ride and if you feel this it not the level for them, express your concerns. Do not hesitate to suggest another level ride should you feel it necessary. If new to SBW you might suggest staying in the back and asking another member to assist them in adjusting to the groups riding techniques.
• Make the ride enjoyable

Start the Ride by:

Introducing yourself and give a brief speech of Pre-ride reminders (below) give a quick overview of the route –details are not necessary.
Pre-ride Reminders:

1. Call and point out road hazards.
2. Call out and pass up all ride information – turns, stopping, slowing, mechanicals
3. Mechanicals – call out and stop at the next safest area, continue only when a solution has been reached.
4. Stop at all stops signs and lights.

All music, head phones, cell phone and aero bars are prohibited from use during a ride.