by Andres Torres
Group riding is fun, and gives you motivation, knowledge and builds camaraderie with your fellow MP's (Miami Pacers!) Group riding with MP is like our own Tour!
But It could be intimidating for the first timers. But no worries, learn "the Rules of Engagement" and it will be easier and more fun.
Every ride has its training purpose, so speeds, distances and objectives may vary, knowing before hand how the ride will be and where the regroupings will take place, will help you a lot, so don't be shy and ask the leaders. And stick to the plan! you will benefit more.
So here are the "Rules of Engagement":
Don't be late
Be respectful of your fellow riders limited time, if you're late call someone and ask for the route and "regrouping" spots and try to meet the group there. Also if you're driving, allow time for donning your equipment, pumping up your tires and assembling your bike, so plan to arrive at least ten minutes early.
Obey the laws and be considerate
Bikes are considered vehicles, and are required to obey the same traffic laws for cars. So obey the laws specially the red lights and Stop signs, getting a traffic ticket or placing your fellow riders in danger ruins the fun. Make sure any move/action you take is possible for those behind you. Avoid crossing an intersection when only 2 or 3 riders can successfully get across. It's a natural tendency to follow the rider ahead of you so think ahead to avoid putting the cyclists behind you in jeopardy.
Communicate
Communication is key for the safety of the group riders. Roads have traffic and hazards, and the visibility is limited when not riding at the front of the group, it's important to warn others about traffic and hazards and always stay alert to the warnings shouted and pointed out.
Lookout for things that could cause problems and shout out a warning and/or point out the hazard, and remember to pass on the signals, don't assume every one behind you sees/hears the commands from the front riders.
Common warnings you're likely to hear include:
Car back! : car approaching the group from the rear
Car up! : car approaching from the front
Car right! (or left!): a car's approaching on a cross street
Slowing! or Stopping! : the group is slowing or stopping for a stop sign or light
Runner, Walker or Rider up! : there's a runner, walker or biker on the road ahead
Gravel! Rocks! Glass! Rails! Hole! Water! Bump! : there's a road hazard ahead
If you are passing slower riders, pass them on their left and shout: "on your left!". Never pass on the right and Pass carefully!
Be Smooth but Stay Alert at the same time
Avoid sudden braking or swerving, be and ride smooth and even try to avoid light braking as much as possible, if you have to brake, do so lightly to bleed off a little speed, rather than braking coast and use you body as aerodynamic braking, make yourself taller by sitting upright and bigger by catching more wind with your chest. Remember braking/swerving by someone at front will create a ripple (Domino) effect and affect the rear of the pack.
Hold your line, if you need to move, check the area for other riders and move gradually after pointing out your move. If you notice someone swerving or braking, stay away from that person! Always "read" the group and let you self a way out by keeping an opening to one side where you can escape through if there's a crash or obstacle you have to avoid.
If you need to look back, warn the person next to you and put your hand on his/her shoulder. This will keep you from swerving. Also use this technique if you get too close to the rider next to you, to avoid tangling your bikes.
Ride Relaxed
Keep your shoulders loose, don't lock your elbows and use a relaxed grip on the handlebars, this way you'll have quicker reactions and you won't become as fatigued and as a result a lousy rider, and if you get tired, move to the back of the pack.
Don't overlap wheels
This is a Big NO NO on pack rides. Because if the rider in front moves to the same side as your front wheel, he/she will bump your front wheel and will knock you down. Always be behind the bike in front of you unless you're passing.
Maintain a constant Gap
To benefit from drafting, stay safely close to the rider up front. Don’t make the mistake of focusing on the back wheel in front of you. Look up at the torso of the rider ahead and occasionally look at the "Big Picture" (the group ahead and the road) so you can see what's going on and be prepared for any sudden changes.
And as always go out have fun and ride/ train Smart!
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